Wilson takes an altogether more balletic approach [than Tortelier]. But there is no lack of wallop: the opening of ‘Circenses’ has tremendous adrenaline…The Triton Fountain sparkles with vitality…There are dozens of versions of Respighi’s ‘Roman Trilogy’ available, but I’ve heard none better than this. The orchestral playing is magnificent, and its joy and exuberance are a tonic at this anxious, isolated period.

This is a high-voltage interpretation, virtuosically played and strong on detail and drama, in which Wilson digs deep into the complexities both of Respighi’s at times eclectic imagination and his extraordinary powers of orchestration…Wilson and his orchestra more than hold their own against their rivals, and perhaps just have the edge over them thanks to Chandos’s superbly engineered recording, which is state-of-the-art, and absolutely stunning.

A genuine triumph.

With dazzlingly inventive dashes of orchestration and demandingly intricate writing across all sections, these three pieces are the perfect vehicle to showcase the sensational virtuosity on offer from this ensemble..Although there are multiple instances where the whole orchestra screams in a ferocious frenzy, these episodes would lose their impact were they not surrounded by more nuanced playing. There are so many delicate touches and changing moods in all three of these pieces, and Wilson captures each one totally.

The meticulous Wilson is no less compelling [than Pappano], and he makes the music of all three scores sing with an Italianate accent, while encouraging his players to heights of virtuosity, and a rich spectrum of dynamics and colour.

This disc is a joy: massive, audacious and vividly played.