Back catalogue: Modern Classical

Review: Continuing his lengthy tour of JS Bach's works, Vikingur Olafsson shares his next mini-album: a recording of several Bach 'singles' - that's individual pieces rather than 45s - performed live at Reykjavik's Harpa concert hall in January 2024. Building on his deep-rooted passion for the works of the pioneering German composer, the classically trained Olafsson lends his own subtleties to four of Bach's cantatas, as well as two further sacred songs, amounting to a more than touching suite. Chief among these in our estimation is 'Komm, suBer Tod, komm selge Ruh' ('Come, sweet death, come, blessed rest'), which was likely written by Bach in the twilight of his life: the theme alone is morbid and tearjerking enough, yet Olafsson's dexter Icelandic hands bring a trademark coldness, an exactness, that only he could summon.

Review: ***B-STOCK: Creasing to corner of outer sleeve but otherwise in excellent condition***


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: 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: It's not often you get to talk about a classical supergroup. It's debatable whether the term supergroup really exists in the classical realm, although Tar, or, to use the full title, Tar (Music from and Inspired by the Motion Picture) is probably as close as you'll get to proving that it does. Evidence is coming, so don't worry.

The work of Academy Award, two-time Grammy Award, and Primetime Emmy Award-winning Icelandic composer, cellist and general shapeshifter Hildur Ingveldardottir Gudnadottir (who has recorded with Throbbing Gristle and Pan Sonic, and toured alongside Sunn O))) and Animal Collective), she's only gone and blown the bloody doors off/drafted the Dresden Philharmonic, London Contemporary Orchestra, and London Symphony Orchestra for this incredible outing, which not only offers sublime tracks but glimpses of the record process itself.

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.