Lamentations for the Holy Week by J. H. Fiocco

From the very first moment, the expressive precision of the two sopranos (…) commands admiration—above all because the continuo likewise stands out, combining ecstatic fullness with a striking clarity in the articulation of the Latin text on the theme of the Lamentations of the prophet Jeremiah.

Chiselled, incisive, and active, the Ensemble Bonne Corde creates a dramatic and mystical tapestry of remarkable naturalness (notably through the sinuous and radiant cello line of Diana Vinagre, the ensemble’s musical director). (…) An irresistible achievement, all the more compelling in that the sound recording (Rainer Arndt), ideally reverberant, also succeeds in chiselling the incandescent verbal expression of the performers.*

Elvire James | Classique News (FR)

*The importance of this production can hardly be overstated. It is very likely the first recording of the complete Lamentations by Joseph-Hector Fiocco, and the inclusion of two previously unknown versions further enhances its significance. One may hope that what has been published thus far will stimulate further research into the material preserved in printed editions, as well as in archives and libraries.

The voices of Ana Vieira Leite and Ana Quintans are closely matched, a factor that contributes decisively to the overall coherence of these interpretations. Both deliver performances of outstanding quality, possessing all that is required to bring these works vividly to life and proving, from a stylistic standpoint, entirely convincing.

The instrumental contributions are of equally high calibre. I very much look forward to hearing more music by Fiocco, as well as further recordings by this excellent ensemble.*

Johan van Veen | Musica Dei Donum (DE)

(…) the presence of the instruments is immediately striking. Far more than a mere basso continuo, the Ensemble Bonne Corde asserts itself as a fully integrated protagonist, combining sonic richness with expressive variety. (…) This recording secures a place at the very summit of the discography.

Jean-Christophe Pucek | Diapason