MusicWeb International has praised Cristina Prats Costa’s Spiritillo Mediterraneo, with critic Johan van Veen writing that there is no dull moment, thanks to music of excellent quality and the engaging way it is played by Prats Costa and her colleagues.
The review traces the album’s historical threads in detail, from the Neapolitan composer Nicola Matteis, who published a guitar method after settling in England, to Falconieri’s opening set of dances, which the reviewer calls a perfect example of the mixture of Spanish and Italian styles. Van Veen highlights Prats Costa’s technical and musical skills, describing her playing as full of passion and zest, and calling the recording a labour of love shaped by her own heritage.
The review does raise one reservation, questioning the historical use of percussion in several of the Matteis pieces. Even so, it concludes that the compelling programme, filled with little-known repertoire, will be thoroughly enjoyed by most listeners.
Spiritillo Mediterraneo is out now on PENTATONE.
