Philharmonic: A Must-Have Live CD/Blu-ray Set from John Lee’s Barclay James Harvest
This stunning release captures a magical concert where the band performed with the Slaithwaite Philharmonic Orchestra, and it’s a truly special experience for any fan of Barclay James Harvest.
The Philharmonic set comes in a sleek, glossy clamshell box, a high-quality production from Esoteric and Cherry Red Records.
The concert is split of two CDs and can be watched on standard DVD and on BluRay. The package also includes a beautifully booklet, featuring credits and photos from the concert. One of the standout details for me is the inclusion of a full list of every member of the orchestra—a rare but much-appreciated touch. Typically, orchestral concert listings only mention the conductor and perhaps the lead violinist, but here, everyone is acknowledged, which I think is superb.
What truly sets Philharmonic apart is the performance itself, especially the Blu-ray recording, which is just stunning for any fan of live music. While the CDs are excellent, the Blu-ray provides an immersive experience that brings you right into the heart of the performance. You can feel the atmosphere of the concert—the camaraderie between the band and the orchestra, and the mutual admiration between the musicians and the audience.
The Slaithwaite Philharmonic Orchestra, which has a rich history spanning over 100 years, is absolutely fantastic. The live concert exudes warmth, and the collaboration between the orchestra and John Lee’s Barclay James Harvest is seamless. The band’s signature sound melds beautifully with the lush orchestration, adding depth and emotion to every track.
Some of the standout moments for me include:
“Mockingbird”: This classic Barclay James Harvest track is simply breathtaking with the full orchestral arrangement. John Lee’s guitar playing, with its perfect blend of subtle echo and emotional depth, adds so much to the song. My wife, sitting next to me as we watched, remarked on just how beautiful the song is in this version—and I couldn’t agree more. The orchestra enhances the already emotive nature of the piece, making it an absolute highlight.
“Hymn”: Always a spiritual and uplifting song, Hymn serves as the perfect closer. The synergy between the band, the orchestra, and the audience during this performance is palpable. It’s a piece that could have gone on for much longer, and no one would have complained. The depth of feeling in both the vocals and instrumentation makes this rendition truly special.
Orchestral Performances: The orchestra also shines in its own right, performing pieces like Handel’s Water Music and Shostakovich’s works. These moments add classical grandeur to the concert, making the entire event feel both timeless and majestic.
Other highlights include “Poor Man’s Moody Blues”, “After the Day”, “Medicine Man”, and “Moonwater” (featuring stunning vocals by Elena Sanders). Each of these tracks comes alive in new ways with the orchestral backing.
If you’re a fan of Barclay James Harvest, Philharmonic is an essential addition to your collection. The band’s music has always lent itself beautifully to orchestral arrangements, and this concert is no exception. The combination of their classic songs and the grandeur of the orchestra creates an experience that is both nostalgic and refreshing.
Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine
