“… I like the variety of Scotting’s program and I find his accomplished technique impressive as he handles the break in vocal registers. His vocal liveliness distinguishes this program. Stephen Stubb’s spirited playing is excellent…”

“…This is a disc that makes you think about what you listen to and why. Scotting and Stubbs do not conform to the traditional counter-tenor/lute tropes, but their performances have a beauty and expressiveness all of their own.”

“… I rise and grieve, a real gem, sung here with passion and drama by Scotting, is almost operatic in its scope. Scotting has an exceptionally beautiful tone, and his voice works well in such pieces …Stephen Stubbs, who has now such a history of fine music making in this type of repertoire, accompanies delightfully and is given a few opportunities to shine in solo numbers like Packington’s Round, in which he plays the more unusual bass lute…”

“… The programme is skilfully planned and beautifully executed…”

“…American countertenor Randall Scotting’s strapping image runs counter to what you might expect. There is a robustness to the voice, too, but refined through his extensive operatic experience. The opera house and the salon coexist in this dramatic yet intimate themed recital in which the legendary Stephen Stubbs, playing renaissance and baroque lutes and a baroque guitar, deploys his legendary arsenal of colours and expressive gestures…” ****½

“Scotting and Stubbs have not given way to the temptation to choose well known baroque songs – Dowland’s Time stands still is the only real “hit”, in company with some Purcell – but have instead explored fairly untrodden paths…. These [an aria from the opera L’Orontea and Luci belle from La Cleopatra], as well as the hitherto unmentioned songs, are well worth a listen, considering how well Scotting and Stubbs perform them…”

Performance ****      Recording ****