The David Rees-Williams Trio presents another innovative collection of re-interpreted historic music in a modern jazz flavoured medium. Back from Before follows previous recordings by the Trio, presenting classical music with a contemporary accent. There seems to be an inexhaustible supply of inspiring and musically suggestive themes from all eras just waiting to be breathed on; while many of these are little known, some will be familiar only to churchgoers, and ex-choir members.
The Trio writes: ‘This is an eclectic collection whilst having an obvious leaning towards church repertoire. I felt that the Wesleys very much needed to have their case stated – they were highly gifted melodists and their tunes connect strongly even to the previously uninitiated. Widor, also largely unknown except to organists, provides a theme of huge impact. Orlando Gibbons gives us a broad grin for his galliard and manic prelude! As ever, J.S. Bach proves that he was probably responsible for the most adaptable music around and Parry shows us how to write the perfect hymn tune. Mozart demonstrates his dual personality in the wackiness of the Gigue contrasting with the remarkably memorable theme Ave Verum. Pergolesi, meanwhile, pulls at the heart-strings and Tchaikovsky can “do commercial” too! We are so lucky to have been left this legacy.’