John Betjeman was one of the great English poets and his work has a particular rhythm (witness ‘The Night Mail’ short movie) that just begs to be set to music.

But who to write the melodies? Paul McCartney? Andrew Lloyd Webber? No… Mike Read. MIKE READ???

Yes, but hang on. Mike has been writing music for years and ha a great love of poetry. Reading Betjeman’s poems opened a floodgate and over the years Mike wrote some great music to accompany the words. Lady Betjeman herself became a great supporter of the project and this is the result- a cracking 2CD set.

Such classic poems as ‘Myfanwy’, ‘Pershore Station’, ‘Narcissus’, ‘Harrow On The Hill’ and ‘Christmas’ are all treated with respect and Mike has done a brilliant job.

Sir George Martin was involved in the project’s early stages and the list of singers that Mike asked to provide the vocals is a veritable Who’s Who of vocal talent. They include, Cliff Richard, David Essex, Jon Anderson, Colin Blunstone, Gene Pitney and Donovan to name half a dozen.

Even if you don’t like poetry much, there will be something to like on this 30 track set.

Angel Air. SJPCD288.