Alice Coote (Angel), Paul Groves (Gerontius), Bryn Terfel (Priest/ Angel of the Agony), Hallé Youth Choir, Hallé Choir, Hallé Orchestra/ Mark Elder Hallé HLD 7520 (2 CDs)****: It's tempting to divide approaches to Elgar's oratorio The Dream of Gerontius between those that focus on dramatic potential and those that give priority to the spiritual atmosphere of this "journey of a soul" between one world and the next.

Mark Elder and the Hallé Orchestra are in the dramatic camp, with an extremely vivid and wide- ranging recording that doesn't miss a trick. Just listen to the demons, or watch out for the frequent richness of the almost sub-sonic tremors. Pride of place among the soloists goes to Alice Coote's firm, compassionate Angel. Paul Groves and Bryn Terfel are nearly as fine, and the choirs are firm of tone and sure in delivery. www.halle.co.uk