"...I enjoyed Ramsay’s first three quartets. However, eccentric their programmatic intentions, they are sturdily built, direct in expression, and cast in clear, compact, well contrasted movements that average about five minutes- long and substantive enough to involve and satisfy the listener, but never so long as to bewilder or bore him ...Sonics are full and warm..."

Mark L Lehman - American Record Guide - November/December 2012

“John Ramsay is an interesting character. His music is essentially tonally based, appealing to the ear, but not without a more acerbic side and also capable of some depth. A spirited performance by the Fitzwilliam Quartet.”

Colin Clarke - Tempo

"... of the four quartets, I was particularly impressed by the Second, and I look forward to hearing more of this gifted composer’s other music. Strongly recommended."  *****

Robert Matthew-Walker - Musical Opinion - June 2012

"...This is generally meaty stuff that the Fitzwilliam Quartet take in their stride with convincing vigour, and their utter dedication to the music serves the composer’s cause to a maximum. Stimulating ..."

Gerald Fenech - ClassicalNet - 14 June 2012
 

“Ramsay’s quartets are fundamentally tonal, with a good deal of chromaticism along the way .. typified by well-structured movements … they are deeply considered, individual, serious, sculptured works. Their self-evident intellectual grounding makes their instant approachability all the more gladdening. [The Fitzwilliams] perform John Ramsay with the same intensity and attentiveness they have previously accorded Shostakovich.” 

Byzantion - MusicWeb-International.com

“While the music is intellectually challenging, it’s also very approachable, making for one of the most interesting chamber releases to appear in some time. The performances by the Fitzwilliam String Quartet are impeccable… razor sharp precision, confidence and emotional commitment. The sound is exceptionally clear.” 

Robert E McQuiston - Classical Lost and Found

“A notable contribution to the British quartet repertoire… well worth getting to know. All I can do is to recommend these discs very strongly. The performances seem excellent as is the recording quality, and the booklet notes are splendid."   *****

Alexander Leonard - Musical Opinion

"...This is a worthwhile and substantial body of work which convinces through the quality of its performances. John Ramsey is indeed fortunate to have the support of such a fine string quartet, and with an excellent recording this is a release which deserves respect and attention."

Dominy Clements -  MusicWeb-Inernational.com - April 2012

"Sounds real, involved and borne by a living spirit...[No 4] in particular has captured my unswerving attention. These masterful quartets are given their world premiere recording by the distinguished Fitzwilliam String Quartet"

Jean-Yves Duperron - Classical Music Sentinel