This superbly presented album of music by Andy Scott, Foden's composer in residence and celebrated saxophonist and teacher, stretches the band's soloists and takes brass band music firmly into the arena of modern classical music. Most of the pieces were specially composed, others are arrangements of pieces for saxophone ensembles. Settings of poems and spoken inserts in the moving 'Battle of Barossa' are particularly effective, with Scott's inherent musicality achieving melodic and rhythmic effects outside the usual brass band repertoire. A booklet of comprehensive sleeve notes explores the composer's intentions and inspiration, and the CD is a rewarding listen, at a time when a lot of contemporary classical music is difficult for the lay person. Thoroughly recommended.
