Hollywood with a touch of Hope

IT used to be easy to pick out a classical music release on a CD rack. Two decades ago, such albums were sober affairs. Somebody clad head to toe in dark colours. Instrument held demurely. And if the record label was feeling wildly adventurous, perhaps the musician would be captured mid-performance. But that's history now.

These days, classical artists are marketed like pop stars, and their albums are slickly designed affairs with dramatic themes such as Escape To Paradise. But while traditionalists may be tempted to turn away in disgust, there's really no need to panic. That's because today's classical albums have hidden depths. And British violinist Daniel Hope's albums are great examples.

Escape to Paradise: The Hollywood Album