The Best Classical Albums of 2021 (So Far)
Gramophone has released its list of the best albums of the year. See what's included...
With three Gramophone Awards to its name Phantasm's recordings are always an exciting prospect and its latest recording, J.S. Bach: The Well-Tempered Consort – II, has certainly thrilled the reviewers at Gramophone:
Editor's Choice: "It is a rare and wonderful thing when a sequel surpasses its first instalment. In this, its stunning sequel, Phantasm achieve the above and more. It's thrilling stuff that, honestly, I'm struggling to put into words. Phantasm have crafted a story with and through Bach's music. A wholly wondrous album."
The Gramophone Award-winning soprano Sandrine Piau is superb in Clair-Obscur, a beguiling album of sunshine and shade:
Editor's Choice: "An inspired piece of programming ... Piau's voice is light and deftly controlled, and it’s matched beautifully by dappled orchestral accompaniment ... Berg's songs quiver with anticipation – the underlying passion of 'Die Nachtigall' comes across beautifully, 'Traumgekrönt' teeters on the edge of euphoria, 'Liebesode' exudes sensuality ... Highly recommended."