Paul Carr: Seven Last Words from the Cross

This is a finely presented CD. The performances from the baritone, William Dazeley in The Seven Last Words is excellent. The choral singing is always well-balanced and clear. And finally the Bath Philharmonia under Gavin Carr give a committed account of this deeply felt music. The liner-notes by the composer are always helpful. The sound quality is faultless. This is an excellent production from one of Britain’ leading composers. Every piece is enjoyable, approachable and ultimately inspiring and often moving. It may be that some folk will not approve of Paul Carr’s largely ‘traditional’ musical language. However, to my ear this CD proves that there is still ever so much to be ‘said’ using a largely tonal musical structure. This music does not require any ‘ism’ but simply a genuine inspiration — truly devotional in the broadest sense. (MusicWeb International)

Drawing on Arvo Pärt and the Slavonic choral tradition, the key work here is a substantial work which, Britten-like, interpolates the Seven Last Words with religious texts ranging from Phineas Fletcher to Saint Pio of Pietrelcina … All are strongly performed and richly recorded (Classical Music)

The role of Jesus, most eloquently fulfilled here by William Dazeley … Fluency and ease with which he handles his forces … Exemplary results from his assembled performers (Gramophone)