photo provided by Sherri Rase
Anonymous the Cherry Tree CD cover
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Listening to Christmas music in the late Summer/early Autumn begs the question of whether or not one is rushing the holiday season. Singers will tell you if you do not begin to prepare now, you will not be ready for the time when it comes. I am also of the opinion that, some days, it's good to have a recollection that happier times are to come. "The Cherry Tree" is Anonymous 4's latest release and listening to it now provides the serenity one really needs, launching through school days, and into the Winter solstice.

Anonymous 4 is not so anonymous and consists of Ruth Cunningham, Marsha Genensky, Susan Hellauer and Jacqueline Horner-Kwiatek. Their voices blend so as to sound nearly like one complex instrument. Primarily focusing on highlighting the work of women during the Medieval and Renaissance periods, their discography shows that, even 500 years ago, sisters were doing it for themselves. "The Cherry Tree," as a carol, goes back more than 500 years and recounts the legend that Joseph had some nagging doubts about Mary's pregnancy and its reputed divine origin. Jesus encouraged Joseph to believe by causing a cherry tree to bow and provide its fruit to His mother.

The carols in this collection have the spare open quality that lovers of early music enjoy. It is only upon close listening one realizes the complications and delightful conflict and resolution the music provides. Many of the pieces are from the 14th and 15th century, while there are some more relatively modern pieces, from the 18th and 19th century, as well.

"The Cherry Tree" has been sung in many variations over the last 500 years. The version that is presented here is of Appalachian origin. Permitting a brief digression, if you have seen the film "Songcatcher," then you will have an understanding of how settlers from the British Isles, who ended up in the mountains of Virginia, West Virginia, Kentucky and Carolina, took an English flavor and created something uniquely American from it. This version of "The Cherry Tree" is both ancient and modern, and something to savor during Christmas and afterward.

This recording will be released on September 14. Fans of early music will want to pre-order or queue at their local CD shop. This is a tremendous early holiday gift for yourself or others who could use a little holiday spirit at any time of the year. This release is on the Harmonia Mundi label, and you may find additional information on Anonymous 4 at their website www.anonymous4.com.