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Even if I were looking for something nasty to say about this CD, I would have a hard time. Who can resist a CD that has such a friendly name? As a matter of fact, there is much to be appreciated about it. Perkins is an excellent bassoonist who managed to collect some interesting and unusual pieces for his instrument, arranging others himself. His enthusiasm for the repertoire and the bassoon itself are immediately apparent. He plays with a spontaneity that makes us entirely forget technique, so that we never feel like we are witnessing a feat of bravura. His beautiful sound and effortless dexterity all work towards making the music gently caress the ear.
Granted, this is very light fare. Anyone expecting heart-wrenching passion or soaring revelation will be bitterly disappointed. But that would be unfair—this CD has no pretensions of grandeur. It promises one hour of cordial and salutary entertainment. And it delivers just that.
Some of these works may seem a bit maudlin, but they all have the merit of being short enough not to overstay their welcome. On the other hand, some are downright funny, as the charming The Bassoon (with Richard Stuart’s invaluable collaboration!). I might have liked a slightly more sensuous Habanera, but then I am used to hearing it on the flute. Perkins’s interpretation is still fluid and free. The New London Orchestra plays competently, although more heavily than necessary, perhaps. This could be the result of the manner in which it was recorded, with a very homogeneous sound set in opposition to the bassoon, a sort of old-fashioned stance, soloist versus orchestral forces, which is not always effective. But these are trifles. The overall technical level is fine, and this is nice music, lovingly rendered.
If you are at all interested in the bassoon, this is a CD you will enjoy very much indeed.
Laura Rónai, FANFARE
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