20th Century Choral Works

Advantages: beautifully composed, orchestrated and performed
Disadvantages: not for the "sing-a-long" musician

...yes thats right folks! Gerald Finzi's music can be described as many things, but genius must be one of them. Gerald Finzi was a British composer in the early 20th Century. Though mostly known for his choral works and hymns, his orchestral pieces give him standing among the all-time musical greats. With an incredible understanding of counterpoint and harmony all the music is atmospheric and paints scenes of true England: rolling hills and valleys, greenery and wildlife. It is true, that a musician's world can be portrayed through his work. The clarinet works, performed by Robert plane, are masterfully directed and performed, keeping close to the original scores even throughout the cadenzas and most intricate of passages. This is the album I put on for stress-busting, though its not for the sing-along istener (no lyrics!), nor... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful

Advantages: New Sound
Disadvantages: Not enough

...I must confess to not being a fan of the music my son enjoys, but this album is truly magnificent. The sampling of early 20th century blues combined with 21st century dance rhythms shows that this guy is a real genius. "Natural Blues" is easily my favourite song at the moment, but I can't think of any track on the album where I need to find the skip button, not something I can say for many albums I purchase! Moby told Jools Holland that the tracks were recorded in a bedroom in his New York apartment - I just wish more artists would spend time at home if this is the standard of work that they would produce.... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful

Advantages: Some outstanding works, a balanced album
Disadvantages: None

...The first CD in this fine collection of Stanford's choral works, this compilation delivers well. This collection focuses on the first period of his choral work, 'Cambridge Years'. Dominating the tracklisting are settings of the Magnificat and Nunc Dimittis. Particularly outstanding are those in B flat and F. You cannot fail to be moved by either the depth of bass in the Nunc Dimittis of the former, or by the triumphal crescendoes in the Magnificat of the latter that demonstrate this composer's temendous ability to bring words to life. The other settings, in E flat and A, are no less majestic. However, it is perhaps hard to appreciate these as one should when they are found on the same disc as those aforementioned. The rest of the CD provides a good contrast to the Evening settings. The anthems and motets provide for a more rounded view... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful