Friar Alessandro: The Voice from Assisi

Handsome young Franciscan friar Alessandro Brustenghi has become a popular performer, both on CD and TV, using his strong tenor for recitals of sacred songs that many find inspiring. In this 2016 concert, filmed at the Basilica of St. Francis in Assisi, Italy, where the titular saint is buried and millions of tourists visit each year, Alessandro is accompanied by the Basilica choir, as well as the Aurora Children's Chorus, and the Chamber Orchestra of Perugia. The 11-song program ranges from such familiar Catholic pieces as “Panis angelicus” and “Ave Maria” (along with a rendition of the Lord's Prayer in Latin) to hymns like “Amazing Grace” and songs derived from Francis's poems. Alessandro performs with obvious commitment, although compared to operatic tenors, his voice is not especially refined, but it is big and booming, and he obviously speaks to the spiritual needs of a great many listeners. Alessandro offers brief introductions to some of the selections, and the roving camera provides glimpses of the church's beautiful interior, which includes frescoes by such painters as Giotto. Presented in stereo, extras include an interview with Alessandro. Likely to appeal to those with a love of sacred music, this is recommended. (F. Swietek)