During the CD era, programming often focused on Mass Ordinaries, whereas Nicolas Gombert's motets were particularly prominent. These works reveal an impressive creative output and profoundly influenced the musical life of the 16th century. A large number of motets are attributed to Gombert, highlighting his compositional significance—in contrast to contemporaries such as Clemens non Papa and Willaert.
Themes such as penance and Marian devotion play a central role in Gombert's music. Motets like 'Aspice Domine' and 'Tribulatio et angustia' powerfully explore the theme of penance, while pieces like 'Ne reminiscaris, Domine' plead for forgiveness. These compositions demonstrate Gombert's intense expressiveness. Furthermore, 'Aspice Domine' may allude to political events such as the Sack of Rome. The veneration of the Virgin Mary is clearly evident in works such as 'Hortus conclusus es' and 'Ave sanctissima Maria', underscoring his distinctive style.
Although Gombert's works are strongly influenced by religious themes, he also composed motets with secular references. For example, the piece 'Ergone vitae' is based on a poem by Johannes Secundus, which addresses recovery from illness and the farewell to a life marked by disease. This particularly highlights Gombert's stylistic versatility.