Here are five and a half hours of little-known music dating from the mid-12th century to the start of the 16th. Some of it comes from France (Provence, in particular), some from Spain (songs of praise to the Virgin Mary--many in amazing dance rhythms), some from Italy (songs of love and war of the troubadours). There are instrumentals with great vigor, complicated vocal works, chant, the expected music of praise, and a few unexpectedly ribald--almost lewd--songs. Taken a CD at a time, this is a magnificent journey, but be warned: being stuck in the Middle Ages for too long might make you yearn for those simple, high-minded times. --Robert Levine

$33.97