Agnostic versus Catholic composer, yet here are two musically stunning masses suitable for any adherent. Fox and Maltman, vocalists best known for their operatic work, create a performance that produces pure joyful drama. Hough, best known as a pianist, here shows he’s a composer who, though perhaps not as innovative, is as capable as his famous album partner. With stunning orchestral colour and dynamic variance, one can only imagine how fantastic this piece sounded when first premiered at Westminster Cathedral. Perhaps not the greatest version of the Vaughan Williams ever but certainly more than worth it for the sublime Hough.
4 stars out of 5
