This is Gustav Leonhardt's second complete recording of Bach's six English Suites and was first released at the end of 1985 in a two-LP album. Now comes the CD, gaining little if anything over the LP sound, which was first rate. In this respect the later version is certainly preferable to the 1977 Philips LP one which was too reverberant and too closely balanced. From the standpoint of performance there is less to choose between the two, or rather, there would be if the Philips one was still available. It isn't, but prospective buyers may rest assured that the new version is likely to give a great deal of satisfaction. Leonhardt is less severe in his approach to the music than he used to be and appears to capture with greater ease and natural grace the dance element which pervades the suites. He brings out the grandeur of the Sarabandes though not always, perhaps, their poignancy where it might be felt by some to be present. The Preludes are a tour de force and the Allemandes expansive, elegant and reflective.
In short, Leonhardt's beautifully poised and clearly articulated playing is both impressive and deeply satisfying. There is a sophistication and a nobility in his understanding of Bach which suits the music uncommonly well.'