These excellently recorded performances display enormous expertise. Accompanying bass parts are superbly characterised and the continuo group, comprising lute and harpsichord, is always compellingly alert. But all this virtue would be nothing without Carolyn Sampson's magnificent singing...hers are no grand-standing operatic performances; they show true respect for the chamber-like nature of these delightful cantatas.

In fresh, free voice, Carolyn Sampson does Bourgeois proud. She understands that airy grace and languid sensuality are of the essence, but never falls into the trap of winsomeness. Singing in clear French, she phrases alluringly...points key words without exaggeration and relishes the opportunities for dramatisation....in such delectable performances they make a welcome discovery.