Mélodie has a particular association with the baritone voice, and Hampson’s charm, insight and care rightfully take their place in that tradition. Bearing the title ‘Serenade’, this collection is full of stimulating connections, progressions and juxtapositions, all captured in Pentatone’s typically warm, natural sound.

There are many byways through the well-stocked garden of French song for those who want to explore further afield. Thomas Hampson has put together an imaginative programme that places just a handful of well-known songs along its path, including Chabrier’s jolly parade of ducklings in “Villanelle des petits canards” and Chausson’s hothouse “Le temps des lilas”.

It is, as one might expect, a disc of great intelligence…His tone now occasionally lacks lustre, and a pulse sometimes intrudes. Against that, however, must be set his ability to fuse the text, lines and dynamics into highly individual expressive statements…[Pikulski is] an excellent accompanist, subtle in his phrasing, keenly alert to shifts in mood and colour throughout.