Does this two-disc set contain John Dowland's greatest hits? Yes, indeed, it does. With "Flow, My Tears," "In Darkness Let Me Dwell," "Come, Heavy Sleep," seven "Larchimae" of various sorts, plus his greatest hit of all, "Semper Dowland, semper dolens," all the melancholy Elizabethan English composer's best-known and best-loved hits are here. Are these the best performances available of Dowland's greatest hits? While some might argue that there are other equally worthy performances available, few would argue that these aren't at least among the best ever made. With the sweet Barbara Bonney, the sensuous Anne Sofie von Otter, and the ethereal Emma Kirkby handling most of the vocals and lutinists Anthony Rooley and Jakob Lindberg plus guitarist Göran Söllscher handling most of the fretwork, these performances have the right blend of the soulful and the poetic with just the right touch of urbane to make them wholly convincing. Although Dowland's predominantly melancholy art may not appeal to everyone, those for whom it does appeal will surely enjoy this superbly chosen and sumptuously recorded two-disc set.

© James Leonard, All Music Guide

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