Because Naxos' Adagio: The Ultimate Collection, Vol. 1, contained many of the relaxing classical hits that nearly everyone knows, Vol. 2 is a peculiar sequel, for the selections on this double disc are not what casual listeners would readily recognize. In that regard, this is the more interesting of the two albums, since the program doesn't cover any obvious or overly familiar choices, but approaches classical music through less popular but equally deserving works. As before, the tracks are calm and soothing slow movements, ...
Read More
Because Naxos' Adagio: The Ultimate Collection, Vol. 1, contained many of the relaxing classical hits that nearly everyone knows, Vol. 2 is a peculiar sequel, for the selections on this double disc are not what casual listeners would readily recognize. In that regard, this is the more interesting of the two albums, since the program doesn't cover any obvious or overly familiar choices, but approaches classical music through less popular but equally deserving works. As before, the tracks are calm and soothing slow movements, taken from concertos and symphonies by such masters as J.S. Bach, Franz Joseph Haydn, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Luigi Boccherini, Tomaso Albinoni, and eight lesser composers who nonetheless wrote soothing and graceful pieces. The performances by rising artists on Naxos' roster are competent and enjoyable, and the tracks are well-balanced digital recordings that won't require any sudden volume adjustments. One must be wary of any compilation that purports to be the last word on its...
Read Less
