Tekla Cunningham and Pacific MusicWorks’ Stylus Phantasticus gets a rave review and recommendation from MusicWeb International‘s Johan van Veen:
“Over the years I have heard many recordings of this kind of repertoire, and it never fails to make a strong impression. The instrumental music of the 17th century is quite exciting stuff. However, its effect largely depends on the performance. If the contrasts within pieces are flattened out or the dynamic differences are equalized, the music becomes almost harmless, and one cannot experience the excitement it must have caused at the time it was written and performed. I am happy to say that in all respects, the performers succeed with flying colours in bringing this music to life. Tekla Cunningham not only impresses with a flawless technique, but also with her deep understanding of the rhetorical and gestural nature of this repertoire. This is one of the best demonstrations of the features of the stylus phantasticus that I have heard recently. She receives excellent support from the basso continuo section, which is a real driving force. Its importance in the performance of this repertoire cannot be overestimated. The use of a harp is particularly enjoyable. In short, this disc is a perfect display of the excitement of the stylus phantasticus.”
—Johan van Veen, MusicWeb International
See the full review on musicweb-international.com