Bach: Cantatas Vol 7 (BWV 61, 63, 132, 172) /Bach Collegium Japan * Suzuki

BIS apparently didn't program this volume of the BCJ's Bach cantata series as a holiday item, but with two cantatas each for Advent and Christmas, it will do nicely. The two Christmas cantatas (especially in their opening and closing choruses) are lusty trumpet-and-drum celebrations--yet with all the dignity and complexity you'd expect from Bach--and they get a lusty performance from the BCJ. The Advent cantatas balance penitent gravitas with hopeful anticipation. The choir, orchestra, and soloists are excellent--especially delightful soprano Ingrid Schmithüsen. --Matthew Westphal