Less than ten years ago, AMUZ Cantoría made their debut. They shone at the International Young Artist's Presentation (IYAP). What has been a rollercoaster since then, I have been following for some time. In recent years they have constantly popped up on social media: every time a pleasure to watch. My expectations for their new CD, with the inviting title Fiesta!, could therefore hardly be higher. (release 16 October 2026, ALPHA 1279 / OUTHERE MUSIC FRANCE)
The group confidently positions itself as an ensemble of natural voices. That way of singing comes across so organic and natural that it seems they stroll effortlessly through these villancicos, as if they were performing them casually in a pleasant tavern over a drink. Not a trace of mannerism or forced fuss. Each voice retains its individuality, and within the collective this works exceptionally well.
Individually, there is also an incredible amount to enjoy. Take the magnificent Inés Alonso in Un pastorcillo italiano (by Joseph de San Juan). Her voice is at once sweetly tender and warm, powerful and consoling. It is a pleasure to sink into it, embraced by the beautiful composition. This is best expressed in the simple recitative in which she offers the little shepherd broccoli, chicken and macaroni, before moving into an aria in which she sublimely sings of her love for the shepherd. I admit it: that track is often on repeat for me. But by zooming in so closely I do an injustice to the other outstanding soloists, such as the equally strong altus Juan Manuel Morales, who shines in El portugués. And those are just two! Sorry, other singers and solos, you are all sublime! Do listen to track 21!
The programme is built around the eighteenth-century Spanish Christmas tradition and the composer Joseph de San Juan. The concept breathes the atmosphere of the villancicos de Navidad that once resounded through churches during the Christmas and Epiphany masses. San Juan skilfully blends liturgical solemnity with elements from the popular theatre of the day, such as the comical sainetes and the jácaras, which sprang from the underworld. You need only imagine how travelling characters – from melancholic Portuguese to cheerful Italians with their wishes for a portion of macaroni and cheese – make their way to the manger to feel how vibrantly alive this heritage is.
And what can be said of the instrumental accompaniment? It is simply phenomenal. The instruments do not merely support; they give so much colour to the sound, and the endless details in the playing – from the delicate theorbo to the tingling percussion and virtuoso violins – make each listening sound different again.
This makes the CD more than convincing: a "playlist" you will keep putting on for intense listening, for a moment of relaxation, or simply to play softly in the background. Yet I offer one warm tip: the first time, have the translations at hand, because that will give you a delightful hour, complete with a broad smile.
A few weeks ago they performed in Versailles. Would you like to hear them live? That is possible in Antwerp on Sunday 13 December 2026 at 15:00 at AMUZ, with the programme Kerst onder kruitdamp: Spaanse ensalada's. Don't hesitate! Buy your ticket here!