BRAHMS - CELLO SONATAS

I loved this disc from the opening bars. Two of my favourite works for cello– the Brahms Cello Sonatas are featured alongside several beautiful song transcriptions, perfectly suited to the cello. Bailey’s playing impresses for its full-bodied sound, amazing technique and stunning artistry. Of this disc, Bailey says "Of all the records I've made, this is the one I'm most proud of.”

DUETTI - PHILIPPE JAROUSSKY & MAX EMANUEL CENCIC

Star countertenors Philippe Jaroussky and Max Emanuel Cencic; join William Christie and Les Arts Florissants for a programme of duets and arias by Italian composers of the 18^th century. Jaroussky’s clear, ethereal tone blends beautifully with the darker, more athletic voice of Cencic in a stunning display of virtuosity and artistry. A recording of rare beauty by two of the finest countertenors of our time.

ANNA NETREBKO - LIVE AT THE MET

The latest cd by reigning diva Anna Netrebko marks her 10^th anniversary at the Met. Her beautiful, dark, and distinctive voice is captured here in a diverse collection of arias from roles that have made her famous. All recorded live, they are characterised by her voluptuous vocal tone, impressive technique, creative flair and on-stage charisma. A singer who can make you swoon and cry in the same phrase, she quite simply ‘has it all’!

BACH: ICH HATTE VIEL BEKUMMERNIS - HEINZ HOLLIGER

Ich hatte viel Bekümmernis is a magnificent account of Bach’s concertos and sinfonias for oboe with Heinz Holliger at the height of his artistic powers, accompanied by the Camerata Bern. Now in his seventies, the elegance and intelligence of his playing allows the exquisite beauty and heartfelt emotion of this music to reveal itself to the listener. In the liner notes, Holliger speaks of his abiding love of Bach’s work. –it shows. A disc of ravishing music making.

 IL CARO SASSONE - HANDEL IN ITALY- Lucy Crowe

Acclaimed Young Soprano Lucy Crowe joins The English Concert led by Harry Bicket in this dazzling programme of Handel arias and cantatas. The luminous, bell-like quality of her voice is perfectly suited to the music of Handel and her phrasing and use of words clearly conveys the mood and character of each piece. A highlight is her languid interpretation of ‘Lascia la Spina’

ELGAR - PIANO QUINTET & STRING QUARTET -Piers Lane/Goldner String Quartet

The disc features sumptuous playing from the acclaimed Goldner String Quartet, who are joined by pianist Piers Lane for Elgar’s sublime Piano Quintet in addition to four previously unrecorded works for solo piano. The performers sound thoroughly immersed in this music and the playing throughout displays a wealth of colour, superb dynamic range and strength of ensemble.

MAXIM RYSANOV Plays SCHUBERT, TCHAIKOVSKY & BRUCH

This stunning disc featuring the violist Maxim Rysanov’s includes adaptations of two well-known works for cello: Tchaikovsky's Rococo Variations and Schubert’s Arpeggione sonata along with the meltingly beautiful Bruch Romance. Acclaimed for his recent performances at the Melbourne International Arts Festival, Rysanov’s warm, lyrical playing makes this a ‘must have’ disc.

SWEET INSPIRATION - SONGS OF DANN PENN & SPOONER OLDHAM

Dann Penn and Spooner Oldham were considered two of the greatest song writers of the 60s and 70s. ‘Sweet Inspiration’ showcases some of their biggest hits along with some interesting rarities. Played on high rotation in store, the catchy songs about love, longing and regret, with artists including Solomon Burke and Etta James, has been a surprise hit among staff and customers.