The robust, immaculately blended sound and precise tuning of the NFM Choir, based at the National Forum of Music in Wrocław, distinguish this showcase for the music of the Polish composer Zuzanna Koziej. Her aim with these settings in Latin of Biblical and liturgical texts, all recorded for the first time, is to address both believers and non-believers in ‘a universal way’. The programme opens with the famous collect ‘Give peace in our time, O Lord’ from the Book of Common Prayer, and the mainly a cappella performances include an anguished treatment of the Stabat mater as well as a brisk Mass of Trust with orchestra. My only reservation is that the composer's exploration of themes relating to doubt, fear and pain might benefit from a slightly gentler approach; this choir expresses strength more effectively than vulnerability.

Aleksandra Turalska (s), NFM Choir, N-Harmony Chamber Orchestra / Agnieszka Franków-Zelazny (dir) Accord ACD312 NFM82 [70:46] ★★★★