The Confession of Isobel Gowdie confirmed Scottish composer James MacMillan as a major talent in 1990. Its inspiration – the brutal execution of a 17th-century ’witch’ – brought from him a score of enormous energy and compassion. Commissioned by the London Symphony Orchestra, The World’s Ransomingis a reflection on the liturgies of Maundy Thursday.
"if you have yet to sample anything by MacMillan, either of these pieces will serve as a very good introduction .. premium performances at a bargain price"
"Sir Colin Davis brings this music into such vivid focus ... readings of truly visionary intensity. Stunning recorded sound"