Gabrieli Consort

"While yielding to none in joyous exhilaration, McCreesh gives full value to the mystery and awe of creation. Unlike most period practitioners, he often favours broad tempos, whether in a wonderfully creepy evocation of the primeval slime in "Chaos" or the most majestic of sunrises... If you want a Creation in English, this new version - sonically thrilling, marvellously sung and characterised - sweeps the field." The Daily Telegraph - March 2008

“The sheer magnificence of the choruses that provide the oratorio's structural pillars has rarely been so effectively realised on disc. McCreesh also has an exceptional set of soloists. The results are exceptional; overtaking even John Eliot Gardiner's striking version on the same label.” BBC Music Magazine, May 2008 *****

Concert performances of the Vespers garnered critical acclaim: 'The energy and imagination of McCreesh's performance with the Gabrieli Consort and Players re-created the atmosphere of early 17th-century Italy in the 21st-century East End of London - The depth and insight of the vocal performances was matched by the brilliance of the instrumental playing' (Guardian)

“McCreesh gives us a compelling attempt to place Monteverdi's settings in the contects of a Vespers service.” BBC Music Magazine, May 2008

The Times (London) was one of many publications to praise the ensemble's special rendering: 'McCreesh propels his period-instrument band and incisive choir with feverish energy. There's never a dull moment. Yet he also has the imagination and control to conjure up delectable oases of calm'

“McCreesh and his forces provide a fine blend of vigour and sensitivity, revealing the music's power and constant ingenuity.” BBC Music Magazine, May 2008

“With incisive, disciplined choral singing, the result is overwhelming.” BBC Music Magazine, May 2008