‘Howell’s Missa Sabrinensis is a masterpiece, its true genius revealed in this exceptionally sensitive performance, recorded so lucidly that it defies its reputation for being difficult to perform. This is essential listening for anyone into Howells and the true greatness of his work’ (Opera Today, USA)

‘Stephen Hough’s long-awaited recording of the complete five piano concertos is a partnership with conductor Hannu Lintu and the Finnish Radio Symphony Orchestra, and the sparks struck between their crisp responsiveness and Hough’s immaculate blend of imagination and control are considerable. Magisterial one moment, wry the next, Hough is a whole orchestra in himself, and not a note is wasted’ (The Guardian)» More

‘This new recording perfectly captures the radiance of the writing, the grandeur of the vision—just wait for the Gloria that comes after [the Kyrie] when you listen to this—and the connection with landscape and tradition. A perfect way to hear Howells at his most expansive’ (BBC Radio 3 CD Review)» More

‘With singing of such distinction as we encounter here, even the more obscure songs come to life, and Graham Johnson’s accompaniments further heighten the listening experience … if I add that reading Graham’s all-embracing notes on each of the songs further enhances the value of this issue, there is no need for me to apologize for the Recommended tag’ (MusicWeb International)

‘Barry really seems to capture the stubborn defiance of Beethoven's character—a certain detachment and lack of empathy as well—alongside frustration and anger, and it wouldn't be Gerald Barry without a hint of humour … his setting of Beethoven's unsent letter to his 'Immortal Beloved' managing that Gerald Barry trick of irreverence mixed with serious musical purpose’ (BBC Record Review)

‘From the opening bars of the First Concerto I was captivated: there's an attractive bounce and suppleness to the playing of the Finnish Radio Symphony Orchestra, a sense of air and openness to the recording as well. Tempos not too hard pushed by conductor Hannu Lintu, but there's a crisp immediacy to the articulation. The first concertos seem to reach back to the Mozartian models Beethoven admired—essential simplicity to the slow movements [with] effortlessly spun lines and long phrases from Hough that match the orchestral playing … one of the things that struck me here [in the first movement of No 5] as much as anywhere was the perfect poise of Hough's quieter playing—he's frequently less dynamically forceful than other pianists. Call it a thoughtful approach if you like but it's better than that, fully thought through and memorably realized … if you liked the poise and nobility of the opening then I suspect you'll appreciate the gently flowing poetry of the slow movement before the outburst of joy in the finale … my Record of the Week’ (BBC Record Review)» More

‘A really well-played recording of chamber music by Clara Schumann and Fanny Mendelssohn … a beautifully balanced performance [of the Schumann Piano Trio] from members of The Nash Ensemble … alongside equally enjoyable accounts of Fanny Mendelssohn's D minor Trio and her String Quartet’ (BBC Record Review)

‘Has British choral singing ever been as rich as now? Among other must-have new releases: the ace De Profundis (conductor Eamonn Dougan) singing Spanish Renaissance music by Juan Esquivel … support these wonderful vocal ensembles if you can’ (The Guardian)

‘Has British choral singing ever been as rich as now? Among other must-have new releases: … the Gesualdo Six (director Owain Park) exploring early and contemporary music in their stunning album Fading … support these wonderful vocal ensembles if you can’ (The Guardian)

‘Wonderful, almost miraculous … there isn’t a colour, weight of attack or nuance of phrasing or rhythm that passes [Hough] by’ (The Times)» More

‘If you don’t know Howells’ music, this splendid new recording of one of his most powerful works is likely to win new friends’ (MusicWeb International)

‘Master accompanist Graham Johnson's ongoing exploration of the piano-accompanied songs of Brahms is a godsend. You may think the same thing about sweet-voiced Irish tenor Robin Tritschler once you've heard his deeply felt, sensitive treatment of the opening song … in the songs that show him at his best on this perfectly balanced recording, Tritschler is a gift’ (Stereophile)