JiÅ™í BÄ›lohlávek (1946-2017)

"Jed Wentz cultivated 'finesse' on his Blavet CD; he admits to opting for a 'rougher, more earthy humour' here. The result is undeniably characterful, but occasionally a tad laboured, with sobriety at times outflanking sparkle.”  ***

"... there is plenty to like in these boisterous, characterful performances." ***½

Artistic Quality 10          Sound Quality 10

“...This is both a bargain and a terrific reading. Highly recommended, and right to the top of the list.”

Editor’s Choice

“Mallon’s performance is exemplary. Handel’s melodies are nicely shaped, with colourful accompaniments that range between assertive energy and understated pathos. Resonant horns and elegant trumpets synthesise stylish wit and regal pomp in the famous ‘Alla hornpipe’ (Suite No 2). Brightness and subtlety co-exist with a charismatic swagger.  Mallon’s sense of an attractive flowing pulse in the music carries through to the Music for the Royal Fireworks. The Ouverture has crisp, articulate phrasing, in which important details are stressed and then shade away to allow the next musical detail to come to the fore. The zesty Aradia Ensemble never succumb to monotonous tub-thumping.”

"... Anyone interested in post-Copland Americana will certainly want to have this for the excellent Metropolis Symphony."

"... All of these are accessible and fun works which should have a wide appeal, and they are superbly performed and recorded." *****