As steals the morn...: Arias & scenes for tenor (Mark Padmore (2007)/ Andrew Manze)

Editor's Choice in Gramophone, mei 2007: "beguilingly rich and sensitive recital from one of the most thoughtful tenors of his generation. Underpinned by Andrew Manze's unobtrusive and warm-hearted English Concert, Mark Padmore uses his extraordinary diction and whispering chamber-like intimacy to remind us that the most exalted tenor arias from the operas and oratorios can achieve true potency out of context. Favourites like "Where'er you walk" and "Waft her, angels" appear to grow out of this varied programme without the sense of being lifted for a compilation; Padmore is a master of taste, restraint and unassuming gesture. "Pastorello d'un povero" is a touching vignette and the soft singing elsewhere contributes to a concentrated and affecting juxtaposition of human vice and virtue (a theme of extremes which recurs throughout) in the Tamerlano scenas. As throughout, Padrnore saves the greatest emotional impact for the da capes where coloration reaches new heights."