Reviewed by Stephen Luff

The award winning brass band return with an album inspired by "ethereal beauty and heavenly intervention" conducted by Dr Robert Childs. The 17 minute opener "Spiriti" is a complex piece and a little difficult to digest for an opener, especially as the CD notes bill the introduction as written in the style of a funeral march! It does pick up as the track progresses however. "The UFO Concerto", in five movements, features outstanding playing on the euphonium by David Childs (Robert's son) who has also performed at the Proms. "Helvetia" is based on visits to Switzerland (Helvetia is the Roman name for the country), and though beautiful, its theme seems a little out of place on this disc. I found the straightforward "Breath Of Souls" based on "nature's capacity to grow and rebuild" which finishes the album, enjoyable with its engaging energy and musical enthusiasm. However, as a whole this was a difficult listening experience; a bit like eating a whole box of chocolates in one go - many interesting musical contrasts but too much all at once!

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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