Thomas Hewitt Jones’ exuberant new Easter hymn provides a lovely, upbeat addition to the Easter repertoire. In response to the natural speech stresses of George R. Woodward’s undulating text (1894), the vocal rhythm in the second verse of Thomas’ setting is cleverly varied. A captivating descant in the refrain adds a transcendent quality to the surging pulse that leads irresistibly towards the climactic phrase ‘Now is Christ arisen’. There is also an optional flute/violin part for those who would like to add further colour and texture to this jubilant and emotionally satisfying celebration of the most important feast in the Christian calendar. © Paul Williamson