MARBECKS COLLECTABLE: Alwyn: Symphony No.1 / Piano Concerto No 1

"Hickox's performance of the First Symphony is just as compelling as the composer's own version on Lyrita. Its unashamed flamboyance and energy, helped by Chandos's spectacular recording, brings great vitality to the music, while the opulent textures make the very most of the composer's spacious tapestries -of sound - so reminiscent of his best film music - and, if the finale nearly goes over the top, the exuberance is highly communicative. The poignant atmosphere of the Adagio is equally well caught." Penguin Guide