Most of the works on this CD date from 1987-97. During that decade Ferneyhough concentrated on a series of works for chamber ensemble, usually with soloists, three of which are included here. The fact that all of the works heard on this CD have been recorded before is a positive development in Ferneyhough’s discography, especially since, for the most part, these performances offer more immediately attractive alternatives to existing versions. Perhaps the most engaging of all is the solo double-bass piece Trittico per GS (the initials standing for Gertrude Stein), which under Corrado Canonici’s fingers often sounds as though several instruments are involved (an impression deliberately conveyed in the score). In fact, the instrument is remarkably agile, while remaining unmistakably gruff and cavernous.

The most substantial ensemble work is Allgebrah for oboe and strings, whose almost claustrophobic density of material contrasts with the occasional sparseness of both Flurries and Incipits. Christopher Redgate is the soloist, and though there’s little to choose between his and Peter Veale’s rival reading with Ensemble Surplus under the late James Avery (Composers’ Art Label), the string ensemble is more incisive and more crisply recorded here. The same is true in Incipits, in which viola-player Bridget Carey and percussionist Julian Warburton excel as soloists. Redgate gives a characteristically nervy rendition of the early Coloratura for oboe and piano. Only the In nomine sounds less keenly observed than Ensemble Recherche’s version for Kairos. It’s the latest work on the disc, and shows signs of a marked change of direction. Taken overall, it’s an attractive package.