The intensity of some of the part writing and the 'Delian' harmonies are well studied by David-Lloyd Jones and the orchestra. Cherry Ripe is just fun - but jolly well written fun. It is technically perfect. A great composer was indulging his love of melody without falling into the trap of writing 'cow-pat' music. The last piece on this disc is ' Roger de Coverley '.
Bridge is a complex composer.
He changed his style to a large extent as a result of the horrors of the First World War. So many of his friends and pupils had been slaughtered in the Trenches. The three pieces presented here belie the sheer range and power of this 'great' British composer. Let us hope that listeners are encouraged to explore his works in detail. The String Quartets are available as are a number of other chamber works.