I imagine most collectors of a certain vintage got to know the ‘Sinfonia tragica’, the Sixth of the Thirty-Two Symphonies by Havergal Brian (1876-1972), through Myer Fredman’s Lyrita recording. Martyn Brabbins brings new light to illuminate a remarkably compelling work – of strong ideas welded into a compact single movement, yet one of expansive storytelling potential, incident-packed, dimensional, vividly coloured, militaristic rhythms vying with rapt moonlit beauty. Symphony Twelve is even more compact if with much to relish over its course, an unpredictability that gathers a powerful logic. Agamemnon (first recording) is a ‘Tragedy in One Act’, an urgent theatrical experience as recorded here – with fine singers, each with excellent enunciation and operatic experience that makes for riveting listening, ENO Chorus & Orchestra of similar disposition, the latter thoroughly assured in the Symphonies. Superb sound from Dave Rowell on Hyperion CDA68464. All-round impressive.
https://www.hyperion-records.co.uk/dc.asp?dc=D_CDA68464
Clytemnestra Eleanor Dennis soprano
Cassandra Stephanie Wake-Edwards mezzo-soprano
Agamemnon John Findon tenor
Watchman Robert Murray tenor
Herald/Old Man Clive Bayley bass