In the sixteenth century Antwerp was an important port and a cosmopolitan city, attracting people from afar. These people also brought their songs with them and this is reflected in the Antwerp Songbook of 1544. It gives a varied impression of a lively community, with a good deal of courting and drinking taking place, as well as featuring songs by people who cared for freedom of speech. This was not always to the taste of the Spanish authorities and the Catholic Church’s infamous Inquisition. Two years after publication this songbook was on the index of forbidden literature, and only one copy has survived.

The warm voice of Paul Rans combined with the virtuosity and musical talents of Philippe Malfeyt, Paul Van Loey and Piet Stryckers, guarantee a very lively and atmospheric performance.

Paul Rans : voice and lute

Philippe Malfeyt : lutes, cittern, hammered dulcimer, percussion

Piet Stryckers : bass and tenor viol, fiddle, hurdy-gurdy

Paul Van Loey : recorders, whistle, dulcian