Anyone who enjoyed the premiere of Bob Chilcott’s Requiem at the Sheldonian Theatre, almost exactly two years ago, will be delighted to know that this beautifully reflective work is shortly to be released on CD.

Performed by the Wells Cathedral Choir and the Nash Ensemble, conducted by Matthew Owens, this is a lovely recording of a piece that Chilcott himself has described as a “gentle” setting of the familiar liturgical text. The opening Introit & Kyrie is quiet and contemplative, the Pie Jesu and Agnes Dei sublime. Chilcott’s eschews the dramatic Dies Irae found in most Requiem masses — “I have a difficulty with the idea of a wrathful, vengeful God,” he once told me — and instead inserts an exquisite setting of Thou knowest, Lord from the Book of Common Prayer.

That’s not to say that this Requiem is without passion — the Offertorio, for example, builds to a fervent climax — but overall, this is a particularly gorgeous and uplifting work, delivered here with great sensitivity and eloquence. Owens ensures some crisp, immaculate entries, wonderful tonal purity and excitingly varied dynamics, all underpinned by some solid support by the orchestra.

Unusually, there are just two soloists instead of the standard four, and the voices of soprano Laurie Ashworth and tenor Andrew Staples soar lightly and effortlessly above the choir.

In my concert review two years ago, I described this as a work that is easy to fall in love with. Now, with the imminent release of the CD, there is the opportunity to fall in love with it all over again. The fact that it comes with some of Chilcott’s other choral works, including his Salisbury Motets and Downing Service, is the icing on the cake. This CD is a real treat for admirers of Chilcott’s music. Put the CD on, put your feet up, relax and enjoy.

Bob Chilcott’s Requiem is released on Hyperion Records on March 26, catalogue number CDA67650.