CLASSICAL: NEW RELEASES

Joseph James Requiem after JS Bach, Philarmonia Orchestra, Barlow (Black Box)

Although he composed a vast amount, Bach never got round to a Requiem. Joseph James' idea is to construct one with each of the movements based on a Bach keyboard work. Sometimes it's a direct transcription; at others, more of James's own input is evident. It's an intriguing idea: well sung, well played... but do we need it? HHHH

Mozart Flesch Quartet Clarinet Quintet, Kegelstatt Trio (Carlton Classics)

Yet another Mozart Clarinet Quartet, played with workmanlike skill by the Flesch foursome joined by John Denman, if not with great panache. More appealing is the sprightly and tautly phrased Kegelstatt Trio, with pianist Paula Fan Denman. Robert Levin's completion of the Allegro assai offers an interesting filler but the main works here find better readings elsewhere. HH