CECIL ARMSTRONG GIBBS (1889-1960): Odysseus - Symphony for Soprano, Baritone, Chorus and Orchestra, GEORGE DYSON (1883-1964): 4 Songs for Sailors for Chorus, Strings, Brass and Timpani.

Description: Collectors who may find such oratorios/cantatas as Dyson's The Canterbury Pilgrims a bit too much of a good thing, would do well to give Gibbs' 1937 Odysseus a chance. Setting verse by Mordaunt Curry dealing with the Greek hero's most famous travels and exploits, it comes in at a mere 58 minutes, contains much striking and powerful choral writing (especially in the scherzo Cyclops) and its orchestral colors are imaginatively applied. Dyson assembled his set of choral songs from previously existing material in 1948. No texts. Susan Gritton (soprano), Mark Stone (baritone), London Oriana Choir, BBC Concert Orchestra; David Drummond.