Jeffreys, J: Full fathom five

“Worthy of comparison to much better-known composers....[Jeffreys] has an exceptional ability to create a variety of musical expressions that fit the words. You will not want to pass this up. Gilchrist's voice has a gentleness, warmth and sweetness that is just right, and his enunciation is impeccable. Good notes and texts.”

“Not ‘fashionable’ perhaps, but a composer sensitive both to words and music. The programme includes eight first recordings. Tenor James Gilchrist has a warm voice, and has the support of a fine pianist.”

“Jeffreys could be counted among the great songwriters of the second English Renaissance… his sparse, evanescent accompaniments are incredibly evocative and his melodies…release the fragrant depths of his chosen texts with seemingly effortless grace. Beautifully realised by tenor James Gilchrist.”

“This is music for a quiet evening – in contemplation of some of the less complex emotions aroused by things fine and beautiful – all beautifully sung by James Gilchrist with Anna Tilbrook accompanying.”

“Advocacy such as this is great for any composer, and still more so for one whose music has not yet attracted the attention it deserves. In James Gilchrist these present songs have an excellent advocate. Overall this is a very good disc indeed. These songs deserve the exposure that discs like this make possible. They are in the best traditions of the English song genre and collectors... will find this disc has many rewards.”