Yugin - Line - COMPACT DISCS [CD]

Testcard are an electro-pop trio based in Liverpool. Formed from members of shadowy audiovisual art promoters the Hive Collective and Probe Plus recording artists Marlowe. Lines melds power pop, future disco and pristine Italo to soundtrack poignant tales of modern urban life. Each pulsing track coolie observes the contradictions of contemporary relationships, the machine inside the heart; the heart inside the machine.

Yet again Sir Colin Davis demonstrates his supreme mastery as a Berlioz interpreter... especially fascinating is to compare this latest Harold en Italie with earlier versions - the biggest contrast is the extra tautness of Davis's interpretation, with speeds consistently faster... The textures are sparer, sharper and lighter - bringing extra incisiveness all round. One other benefit is that the magnificent Tabea Zimmermann, is balanced as part of the orchestra. The beauty of her tone, with it's nut-brown colours on the C-string, is never masked, but the balance allows pianissimi of a delicacy never achieved by the 1975 version. In the introduction there is a repeat marked 'pianissimo possibile' - just what you hear in magic tones. (Gramophone)

With O Linea, O Linea delivers keen storytelling and textural detail, guided by quiet intensity. Crafted with care and built for replay value. Textures of forward momentum and soulful leads support late-night clarity, culminating in a cohesive arc that feels both fresh and familiar. A standout for collectors who appreciate subtle complexity, immersive depth, and thoughtful detail.