Shostakovich Dmitry (1906-1975) BBC Philharmonic Orchestra  Suite on Words of Michelangelo, Op. 145a Six Romances on Verses by Raleigh, Burns and Shakespeare, Op. 140 October, Op. 132  Ildar Abdrazakov bass CD or DOWNLOAD   Reviews  'The Suite on Words of Michelangelo (1974) is one of Shostakovich’s most moving late works, its spare orchestration perfectly adjusted to the mood of the texts. Preoccupation with death also haunts the Six Romances, setting of English poets composed in 1942 but not orchestrated with 1971 and characteristic of his bitter humour. Both cycles are superbly sung by the Russian-born bass Ildar Abdrazakov.' Sunday Telegraph 'Austere, uncompromising stuff, it’s ideally suited to Gianandrea Noseda’s severe way with Shostakovich and he and the BBC Philharmonic illuminate its bleakly beautiful orchestral palette with great subtlety' The Guardian 'Abdrazakov’s restraint brings its own rewards, allowing the songs to speak for with stoical wisdom, the more so thanks to his fabulously steady tone, which remains rich and euphonious across the entire register and dynamic range. The BBC Philharmonic and their principal conductor accompany with refinement and well aimed attack.' Gramophone 'The Michelangelo cycle is perhaps Shostakovich’s most unfairly neglected masterpiece, embodying everything that is hest about late Shostakovich in its concentration and power… on balance the new recording is now a clear first choice…' International Record Review 'The performances are very strong. Abdrazakov has a superb voice that he uses effectively to convey the great range of emotions in this music. Let us hope we hear lots more from him. The orchestral playing is clean and passionate, with strong and perceptive direction by Noseda, and the recorded sound is excellent. Texts are supplied in four languages along with informative notes. What a welcome recording this is!' American Record Guide