CD - Gratus et Optatus

Datura's second album. Mighty Medieval Music returns! After the succes of their first album they dedicated themselves in the magical Orchus Studio and you must hear what came out. Thrilling ballads, jolly drinkingsongs, extatic spirituals and energetic dancing music. People from all walks of life and all ages seem to enjoy their timeless music from the Middle Ages. Contains the CD and a 20p. illustrated backgroud booklet with the lyrics and more.

In the endless search for the most beautifull music from medieval times Datura collected interpreted and recorded these songs with dedication and passion. Listening to this album you can almost taste the medieval times in real life. From Flanders to the south of Spain, ancient Latin or lost Occitan, the medieval world in the palm of your hand.

The medieval music on this album is a mix between bombastic classical and jovial worldly music. Straight from the manuscripts to the studio, played with enthousiasm and emotion. The songs range from wild dances like the Branle des Cheveaux (watch out for the horse) and the Danse Moresque to the melancholic Ja Nus Hons Pris that was written by Richard the Lionheart in captivity. The religious Dei Patri Unice from the normans on Sicily to the unforgettable jolly drinking song Bacche Bene Venies. Those who heard it sing along!

Not only the immortal medieval repertoire, but also the artistic interpretation of the group and the exceptional studio recording make this album a rare product in the Dutch music market. Do check out their other albums!

Gratus et Optatus (2016)
1. Bacche bene venies
2. Winder wie ist nu dein Kraft
3. La rosa enflorece
4. Riu riu chiu
5. Branle des cheveaux
6. Dei patris unice
7. Alle psallite cum luya
8. Cantiga de Santa Maria no. 47 Virgen Santa Maria
9. Schoonlief hoe ligt gij hier en slaapt
10. Douce dame jolie
11.Er zou een meiske gaan om wijn
12. Belle qui tiens ma vie
13. Ja nus hons pris
14. Morris dance

Datura's musicians are:
Nynke Glazema: Viella and vocals
Tom Haage: Spanish lute, flute, shawm and vocals
Francesco Scafidi: Davul, darbukka, tambourine, saz and vocals
Lies Sommer: harp, hurdy gurdy, shawm and vocals

Guest musician:
Anne Dekker: Viola da gamba

Recorded by: 
Fieke van den Hurk, Orchus Studio