Poet and composer Thomas Campion was an almost exact contemporary of John Dowland, by whom his reputation has since to some extent been overshadowed. Which is a pity, because Campion's music makes an ideal complement to that of the mournful and melancholic Dowland. Rather than concerning himself with 'tears, sin, darkness and death' (quoting Grove), Campion portrayed life much more cheerfully, not to say earthly, in his many tuneful songs and instrumental pieces.

This disc worthily follows 'English Lute Songs' by these artists (CDA67126), and will give equal pleasure. Also fresh in mind is the recent 'Salve Regina' (CDA67225) for which Robin Blaze (together with The Parley of Instruments under Peter Holman) received great critical acclaim.