Sixteenth-century York was the home of the Yule Riding, a celebration of the 12 days of Christmas in which the Norse midwinter festival and the Nativity came together in legitimised disorder. A fine CD, produced by Beautiful Jo Records, allows us to share the fun. The musicianship is superlative, with sackbuts, lutes and shawms joining recorders, hurdy-gurdy and clear vocals. The songs come from all over Renaissance Europe and the moods range from boisterous revelry via delicate piety to poignant meditation. Yule Riding costs Pounds 12.99 from Beautiful Jo Records, 86 Marlborough Road, Oxford OX1 4LS.

Tel: 01865 249194 www.bejo.co.uk