Gramophone November 1996 Editor’s choice

Bryars Farewell to Philosophy

Lloyd Webber; Haden; Nexus; ECO / Judd. Gavin Bryars’s 1995 Cello Concerto emerges from among shadows with its solo line climbing sadly and patiently. Both pieces emerge from among shadows, the Bryars including harp and low percussion. Lloyd Webber’s tone seems to be perfectly suited to the job, being full-bodied and expressive but relaxed enough to blend with the components of a predominantly dark accompaniment.

Robert Cowan