"the first choral entry [The Anvil] reminds me of the opening chorus of J S Bach's St John's Passion ... This is a very powerful work, and all the forces are used very effectively in this evocative and quite compelling piece. It is unashamedly contemporary music, but I have found it one of the most original and fascinating works I have listened to in some time. There is a lot of contrast, with hymns, slogans, marching tunes, industrial sound and rapid changes of mood, and the assembled forces have done a splendid job in delivering a rather startling performance ... Both works are very effective and original. I had never heard of the music of Emily Howard before, but I am sure this won't be the last I hear of this most interesting and innovative composer. She also demonstrates that there is much to be gained from a close collaboration with a poet. The vocal soloists, orchestral and choral forces provide an exemplary recording of two works that would not be easy to perform. This is not a disc that everyone will enjoy, but for those that listen to it, it showcases a composer who is a powerful voice, and one whose music, I believe, will stand the test of time"

CLASSICAL MUSIC DAILY - CD SPOTLIGHT
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"The Anvil is an immersive and emotional experience ... in 'The Field Turns Inside Out, the orchestral assult mirrors the flash of sabres and crush of hooves, voices crying out as chaos reigns. Visceral and brilliant"

'The Anvil succeeds in depicting the horror and devestation of Peterloo. The use of musical gestures, including vivid dynamic juxtopositions, Ivesian superimpositions, popular melody and hymn tunes such as Tallis Canon, is undoubtedly effective ... [Elliptics]has an elliptical ambience ... this creative complex of contrast, capraciousness and atmospheric orchestral accompnaiment that contributes to the work's coherence and to its broader mood of melancholic introspection'