Lads of Love and Sorrow

Generally, John Williamson’s songs are more traditional in style than his piano music and belong to that great tradition of English pastoral and lyric song exemplified by Warlock, Moeran, Finzi, Ireland, Vaughan Williams, Delius and many more very fine composers.However his style is individual and distinctive in its own right. These are heartfelt and most appropriate settings of poems of love, war, loss and regret and excellent additions to the canon of English song. Originally released as Dunelm DRD0265.

"... david Jones is an involved, sensitive pianist, and the recorded sound ... is certainly more than acceptale, and is well balanced between Singer and voice ... I am glad I have heard this disc ..."

Henry Fogel - Fanfare - November/December 2011

“ In his music, Williamson consistently matches the emotional nuances of Housman’s measured verses. Baritone Mark Rowlinson and his pianist range effectively from the lyrical to the dramatic – “’Tis five years since” is particularly arresting.” 

Peter Parker  - Nottingham Evening Post
 

“This anthology ... is filled with pleasing, tranquil settings in the respected tradition of English song. They are intelligently grouped by subject: love, war sorrow etc, leading the listener through a range of emotions. Overall, an interesting and worthwhile recording, well presented with full texts and notes.” 

Serena Fenwick - Classical Pointers
 

The [twenty-five] songs here find a first-rate advocate in the experienced Mark Rowlinson whose delivery is clear and his diction outstanding. Equally importantly he is positively supported by pianist David Jones, as much of the musical argument of these songs lies in the often chordal accompaniment, whose piano writing is so characteristic of this composer. Strongly recommended to lovers of English song and of Housman settings in particular.


No User Reviews Found.