Espana! -Albeniz, Falla, Ravel, Mompou, Rodrigo (5CD)

From the late 19th century onwards, following in the wake of Goya, Spain experienced a creative explosion that was to manifest itself in all the arts, including music. Espana!, a specially-priced five disc set, presents a selection of the rich music of Spanish composers who probed the innermost depths of their country's soul. Many of their works were influenced by developments elsewhere in Europe - hence the presence here of Ravel, the most Spanish of French musicians, alongside de Falla, Albeniz, Rodrigo, and Mompou. Featured artists on this comprehensive collection, which ranges from opera to chamber music, include pianist Javier Perianes, guitarist Marco Socas and the Orquesta Ciudad de Granada led by Josep Pons.