"This 1986 release from this feminist ensemble is a departure from their previous recordings--it represents Libana's spiritual basis of celebrating community and reverence for the rootedness of ritual, the Earth, the nuances of seasons, the solitude of meditation, and the Divine within. Side I traces the seasonal changes of a year, while Side II marks the facets and cadences of a ritual gathering. Opening with an invocation to the elements and the casting of a circle, it proceeds to honor the spirit and spirituality of women. Sources drawn from are Native American, African, Anglo, Israeli, and European, inspired by music from the Renaissance through contemporary feminist times. They sing each selection in unison, then divide into harmonies and arrangements; most is acappella, with occasional simple instrumental accompaniment. Includes 22 selections; a matching songbook is available separately. Hauntingly beautiful--a perfect holiday gift--very, very highly recommended!

Libana: Lisa Bosley, Jane Goodman, Judy Kaye, Charlotte Miller, Marytha Paffrath, Janet Penn, Susan Robbins, Martha Rounds, Anne Slepian, Karen Thomas, Linda Ugelow, Cheryl Weber.'"