Heaven and Earth are Full of Thy Glory is dedicated to British settings of the Mass Ordinary for use in Anglican services of Communion. Most are from the late-19th through the mid-20th century, with one from 1968. The album is likely to have most appeal to fans of late Romantic Anglican sacred music, particularly those who have fond memories of these pieces being used in the liturgy. Most of the music is not of sufficient quality to be of interest to general audiences. The composers, including Basil Harwood, John Ireland, Charles Wood, and Harold Darke, write in a blandly lyrical style. The character of the music reflects the character of the text in a utilitarian way, but it is rarely touched by the kind of inspiration needed to make it memorable. Kenneth Leighton's 1968 Missa Brevis uses a somewhat more contemporary harmonic vocabulary, but its effect is no more compelling than the earlier works. Occasional movements stand out as a step above the rest, including Ireland's Sanctus and Agnus Dei. Wood's is the most skillful and professional setting and maintains a tone of quiet dignity. George Oldroyd's Mass of the Quiet Hour is the most distinctive and appealing work, and several of its movements are genuinely attractive. The performances by
Wakefield Cathedral Choir, an ensemble of men and boys, led by Jonathan Bielby, are no more than adequate, and sometimes, less so. The adult soloists are particularly mediocre. Priory's sound is somewhat distant and recessed.