Unlike most collections of “British light music”, which allow American listeners to discover gems written by relatively unknown composers, this one contains some delightful trifles by rather big names. Sir Malcolm Arnold is the first up, and is represented by an overture based on his film music for The Roots of Heaven, a piece designed to be played at certain theaters prior to the movie’s beginning. It has the usual Arnold brass parts, including glissandos and smears, but at its core it also has something we don’t always expect of this composer: one of the most lyrical, voluptuous melodies imaginable. Next is a congenial set of Scottish Dances, composed by William Alwyn, best known as the writer of many serious works for the concert hall. Sir Malcom Sargent’s blustery, tuneful An Impression on a Windy Day is here, as is Richard Rodney Bennett’s lovely, impressionist Little Suite. To balance the sublime with a bit of the ridiculous, there’s Gordon Jacob’s irreverent reworking of one of Rossini’s most famous works, titled The Barber of Seville Goes to the Devil. Add to these some miniature pastoral tone poems by Cliton Parker, James Langley, Maurice Johnstone, Alan Langford, and David Lyon, and you have a generous serving of ingratiating fare. Gavin Sutherland conducts with authority and the Royal Ballet Sinfonia plays splendidly. The recorded sound is good, but slightly lacking in bass and presence.
