This CD provides a valuable snapshot of the current state of choral singing at University College, Durham, under their director Barney Howard. It is also conceived as a tribute to alumunus David Knowles, an undergraduate at the College and a past member of the Chapel Choir. To a large extent, the programme has been built around music Knowles enjoyed – for example, Purcell’ anthems Hear my prayer, O Lord and Remember not, Lord our offences were sung at his funeral, at his request – and others by Bairstow and Jackson which communicate hope of salvation. While we usually associate the latter pair with York Minster, both in fact had strong Durham connections. And the North-East vibe is completed by Newcastle-born contemporary composer Ben Rowarth’s Messages, a commission in memory of Knowles. Finally, the programme includes Amy Beach’s Four Canticles, appearing here in their first complete recording. Setting aside the very personal resonance of this recording, it offers a highly enjoyable programme of choral music. While none of the Bairstow or Jackson pieces could be described as miniature masterpieces, both composers are exceptional craftsmen and the examples of their art on this CD bear this out. The undergraduate voices of the 24-strong choir produce a nicely focused sound, well blended and tuned under Howard’s direction. Choral singing is very much alive and well in this Durham college.