Sir Arthur Bliss – The Decca Originals

Immerse yourself in the rich and diverse musical landscape of Sir Arthur Bliss with "Sir Arthur Bliss – The Decca Originals," a meticulously curated collection of his finest works. This double album, released by Universal Music Australia, spans over two hours and twenty-seven minutes, offering a comprehensive journey through the composer's illustrious career.

The album kicks off with the regal "Welcome the Queen," a piece that showcases Bliss's ability to capture the grandeur and pageantry of British tradition. It then delves into the dramatic "Things to Come" suite, a work that highlights Bliss's prowess in creating vivid, cinematic soundscapes. The centerpiece of the collection is undoubtedly the "Colour Symphony," a groundbreaking work that, despite causing a rift with Edward Elgar, solidified Bliss's reputation as a pioneering composer. This symphony, with its innovative use of color as a structural element, remains one of Bliss's most celebrated works.

The album also features the complete version of Bliss's "Violin Concerto," performed by the renowned Alfredo Campoli. This concerto, with its virtuosic demands and lyrical beauty, is a testament to Bliss's skill in writing for the violin. Other highlights include the "String Quartet No. 2 in F Minor," performed by the Griller Quartet, and the evocative "Baraza" from "Men of Two Worlds."

"Sir Arthur Bliss – The Decca Originals" is not just a collection of recordings; it's a historical document that traces the evolution of a composer who, over the course of his career, moved from provocative modernism to becoming a celebrated figure in British music. Whether you're a longtime fan of Bliss's work or a newcomer to his music, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.