Back catalogue: All genres

Review: Joe Hisaishi's latest release offers a compelling fusion of classical and cinematic music. The compositions, originally crafted for film soundtracks, are reimagined with orchestral arrangements that breathe new life into the pieces. The album showcases Hisaishi's signature style, blending emotive melodies with intricate orchestration. Listeners are treated to a rich auditory experience that highlights the depth and versatility of Hisaishi's work.

Review: Roger and brother Brian Eno have already assured their legacy as pioneers of experimental ambient music. Mixing Colours was their first album on Deutsche Grammophon and this reissue reminds us why the par are so well known for revolutionising music-Brian through innovative pop treatments and Roger with ambient synth/piano works. This collaboration reflects their shared genius and guides you through rich soundscapes blending mood and place into immersive auditory experiences. Crafted over several years, this poetic collection highlights the brothers' mastery and is a deep dive into ambient sound.

Review: Alice Sara Ott is a German-Japanese pianist and her new album finds her sinking herself down deep into the world of John Field, the creator of the beloved 'Nocturne' sound. The Nocturne is a widely cherished musical form yet its creator remains largely unknown today. An Irish composer who lived during Beethoven's time, Field's work profoundly influenced Chopin and generations of musicians since and with this album, Ott highlights Field's historical significance as well as offering up a standing album full of merit. It is a great way to get into the origins of the Nocturne."

Review: Vikingur olafsson's interpretations of Philip Glass's piano works have captivated audiences worldwide. This recording marked a pivotal moment in Olafsson's career, with the Icelandic pianist's perceptive and nuanced playing bringing a new dimension to Glass's minimalist compositions, capturing the composer's ability to transcend space and time. From the hypnotic repetitions of 'No. 20' to the ethereal beauty of 'No. 14', olafsson's performance is nothing short of mesmerising.

Review: Formed in 2018, Dream House Quartet has been reshaping the boundaries between classical and contemporary music. The group consists of pianists Katia and Marielle Labeque, both renowned for their versatility across genres, along with Grammy-winning guitarist Bryce Dessner of The National and composer-producer David Chalmin on guitar. Their repertoire spans radical commissions and essential works from the past 50 years. After releasing their self-titled digital EP in 2023, the quartet now unveils their latest project, Sonic Wires, coinciding with a November 2024 tour. The album features pieces by Steve Reich, Philip Glass, Bryce Dessner, Sufjan Stevens and Anna Thorvaldsdottir.

Review: Howard Shore is the renowned film composer known for The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit soundtracks and now he releases a new album capturing three concerts he performed in Spring 2023 at the Maison de Radio France. Two concerts feature the Orchestre Philharmonique de Radio France, conducted by Ludwig Wicki and Bastien Stil, while the third highlights Shore's experimental works. The performances include soloists such as Olivier Doise and Raphaelle Moreau. Shore, a pioneer in contemporary film music, believes film music offers composers unique freedom for personal expression and backs that up with his work here.

Review: A grand, limited-edition 7-LP vinyl set that celebrates the legendary composer through live performances with some of the world's most renowned orchestras, capturing Williams conducting iconic scores with ensembles like the Saito Kinen Orchestra, Berliner Philharmoniker and Wiener Philharmoniker. Additionally, it includes the world premiere of Williams' Violin Concerto No. 2, featuring violinist Anne-Sophie Mutter and the Boston Symphony Orchestra. The set covers a wide range of Williams' celebrated film compositions, including unforgettable themes from Harry Potter (like 'Hedwig's Theme') and Star Wars (featuring tracks such as 'Princess Leia's Theme' and 'The Imperial March'). Other highlights include E.T.'s 'Flying Theme', Jurassic Park's evocative main theme and the suspenseful, instantly recognizable score from Jaws. The box set's careful design includes a booklet with liner notes, essays by film-music writer Jon Burlingame, and personal reflections from Williams and other performers. Each LP is dedicated to a different concert experience, with memorable encore performances from Tokyo, Vienna and Boston adding to the collection's richness. A thoughtfully curated release and a unique journey through Williams' music.