Matthews: Symphonies No 2 & 6

Dutton Epoch's second volume of David Matthews's symphonies presents the second and sixth, among the most engaging symphonies of our time. "A glorious sixth," said The Times after the Prom premiere in 2007, which all at Dutton Epoch can echo now that we have made its premiere recording. Incorporating Vaughan Williams's hymn tune Down Ampney, it continues the British tradition in memorable and lyrical style. As the Sunday Times critic wrote, "It is indubitably a work to listen to again." It is coupled with the involving Second Symphony, a large-scale single movement whose lyricism - a critic commented on "a finely wrought melody for bassoon which is also its most personal and memorable invention" - contrasts with the exciting writing for percussion in an exuberant central episode. Track listing: Symphony No.2, Op.1 (1976-79) i. Lento e calmo - ii. Allegro energico - iii. Più mosso - iv. Presto veloce Symphony No.6, Op.100 (2003-07) i. Flowing ii. Scherzo: Vivacissimo iii. Molto moderato - Adagio