‘An absolutely outstanding choral recording … after hearing that performance from Polyphony directed by Stephen Layton, it’s hard to believe that there’s another vocal ensemble that could bring such radiant perfection of voice and ensemble to bear on this music. Some of the sounds are just heart-stoppingly beautiful. A surfeit of beauty? Maybe, but such synergy of imagination and performance’ (BBC Radio 3 CD Review)
‘There are many striking features of this ravishing disc, beautifully and imaginatively performed by Stephen Layton and Polyphony … Jackson possesses an instinct for acoustic and vocal texture, but the beauty and sheer appeal of his vocal works, challenging as they are, are sculpted by an energising pragmatism open both to the professional and ambitious amateur choir’ (Gramophone)
‘Jackson has an unerring gift for the natural rhythms of language, resulting in delightfully unhurried miniatures that should suit any competent chamber choir … Polyphony deliver an intelligent and gripping musical performance at a very high standard. This sublime album comes highly recommended and the performances are another triumph for Polyphony and Stephen Layton’ (Musical Criticism.com)
‘The sopranos throughout represent the icing on the musical cake with their gloriously luminous, pure tone. Technical stuff out the way, this performance also satisfies the soul; Polyphony effortlessly evoke the music’s transcendent qualities in a performance awash with holy reverence. This is music and a performance that takes the ears and the mind heavenwards, whatever you believe’ (bbc.co.uk)