William Conway and Peter Evans offer first-rate performances of the sonatas of Debussy and Poulenc and the Frank Martin Ballade on this fine Linn release. Given that, with the Debussy at least, they are entering a highly competitive field, this new recording can confidently stand alongside some of the best available. These encompass interpretations from several key figures of the French school of cello playing, notably Maurice Marechal, Gendron, Tortelier and the illustrious Pierre Fournier, to whom Poulenc dedicated his Sonata. Conway has commanded high praise for his recordings, especially his recent collaboration with Sir Peter Maxwell Davies in the latest of the Strathclyde Concertos (Unicorn-Kanchana, 1/90), a product of his involvement with the Scottish Chamber Orchestra, of which Conway is principal cellist.
The bewildering concentration of moods in a work lasting less than 15 minutes presents special difficulties in the Debussy sonata. The players here have thought long and hard over the presentation of the piece; they are alive and responsive to its elusive Commedia dell'arte sensibilities. However, deference to the precise letter of the score alone, albeit under the aegis of Debussy's dictum, ''Freedom within discipline'', is hardly sufficient in a sonata which, although avowedly classical, portrays the evanescent melancholia of the Pierrot. Fortunately, both players are resourceful enough to capitalize on this introspection, while the central ''Serenade'' gives ample opportunity for display. A praiseworthy account, then, of a problematic work.
Fournier was also the dedicatee of the Frank Martin Ballade, whose tuneful chromaticism suits the instrument well, although it does not offer the same scope as either of the sonatas here. Poulenc's Cello Sonata, on the other hand, is technically demanding for both players, and sounds particularly well in this new version. The players respond keenly to its wit and candour, whilst making the most of its virtuosic potential. This new recording can be given the warmest commendation; it is highly enjoyable, and admirably recorded.'