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Jacques
Champion de Chambonnières: Pavane L'Entretien des Dieux
London Independent Records LIR006 [50 mins] www.jansmusic.co.uk David Pollock's felicitous debut recital is of a delectable tracing the evolution of the French tradition of harpsichord music. It begins a little soberly, and he tends to maintain a firm pulse with less freedom than one might expect, but he soon unbends and there are some delicious things, not least some real discoveries. He has chosen a programme of mostly not-too-well known pieces which works well played straight through. D'Anglebert's
Tombeau is duly serious and moving, whilst Couperin's
barricades oscillate like a boat in a gentle swell. Especially
ear-catching is the suite by Le Roux and Pollock's account of
Royer's Scythian March is a tour de force that bids fair
to become as popular as did Puyana's version of the Soler Fandango,
if the classical disc-jockeys get to hear it. Meanwhile, I look forward to David Pollock's next, English music recorded on a muselar virginals, which has a single keyboard but by the placement of the bridge suggests contrasting voices in its different register (q.v. my review of Davitt Moroney's complete Byrd boxed set). An auspicious debut. If he contemplates returning to the French repertoire, David Pollock might consider recording a programme of Le Roux and Royer? Meanwhile, if you think 50 mins is short measure for nowadays, you can play this one again!
David Pollock's English programme has been worth waiting for; Byrd's variations on the popular tune giving the CD its title. A lovely collection of pieces by the main composers London Independent Records LIR005
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The
French Harpsichord 
O Mistris Myne
from Tallis to Purcell, and as good an exposition of the beauties of the muselar as you will find. Paula Woods provides a comprehensive note about the music and the importance of the virginal.