Let's get it out of the way at the start : Mr Hopkins knows what he's doing.
This music is well crafted and in no way similar to the numerous cliched ear ticklers so often heard from popular living "classical" composers. Unfortunately, it is film music and, like so much music of this kind, doesn't fair well out of context. It failed to engage me I'm afraid. There are many moments when the music seems set to grab the listener but this promise so often evaporates. I suspect the lack of really strong melodic lines is often to blame.
The playing, needless to say from the CBSO, is of a high standard. Nevertheless, the recording itself isn't of the same standard. The music sometimes almost disappears under the background noise (probably from the audience)and it seems that efforts have been made to eradicate this noise which has led to some strange digital artifacts appearing at times.
I look forward to hearing more of his music but, preferably, music which is meant to stand alone. I think we are in for a rare treat when that CD is released.