Classical CD: Manfredo Kraemer/ Juan Manuel Quintama

Buxtehude: Sonate a due Opus 1, Harmonia Mundi

Buxtehude's take on the gouts réunis aesthetic of the late 17th century liberated German music from what had become the narrow didacts of Lutheran style post-Schütz and helped to realise a new baroque sensuality. This is delicious stuff, combining the dip and swerve of French style with the vivacity of Italian structure, and is deliciously played. The ripe tones of Kramer are offset to perfection by Quintana's supple Viola da Gamba. Alas Dick Borner's harpsichord playing acts like an unwanted chaperone, quickly nipping any passion in the bud.