Simpson, C: Prelude in D

“Paul Agnew's long experience in the realm of French Baroque music makes him particularly sensitive to le goût français, his voice supple enough to realise with exquisite grace the intricate, French-style recitatives and embellishments. In the simpler songs and laments, he croons with the seductive tones of a veritable chanteur de charme. Anne-Marie Lasla, Elizabeth Kenny and Blandine Rannou provide inspired continuo realisations, full of improvisatory flair and theatricality. The rapport between these four musicians lifts the music far beyond the written notes producing a perfect entente cordiale.” BBC Music Magazine, January 2010 *****

“Agnew gets it just right, and the ensemble behind him is flawless. There is the right blend of restraint and subtlety, with emotional guts – try I loved Fair Celia or the heartfelt Solitude with a wonderfully well-judged solo viol...Generally the performances are outstanding – and the idea of breaking up the Purcell songs with instrumental solos inspired.” Katie Greening, bbc.co.uk, 4th November 2009

“…a marvellous anthology of songs by Purcell. …separated by short instrumental pieces by other composers, giving well deserved solo spots to Anne-Marie Lasla and Elizabeth Kenny. If the tone is predominantly sombre, there's relief in "Man is for the woman made", Agnew's cheerful delivery perfectly complemented by a strumming guitar. The Evening Hymn - another ground - ends with a string of "Hallelujahs" that Agnew sings with an appropriate inwardness. ...it's the performances that count: magnificent.” Gramophone Magazine, January 2010