The very first sound emitted by the young bass-baritone Jonathan Lemalu says it all. Here is an enormous voice, of cavernous resonance and silken tone, in the control of an artist equipped with all the right musical instincts and intelligence.

Brahm's Four Serious Songs might have been written with just such an instrument in mind. But Lemalu is equally good at Schubert, maintaining a sense of intimacy in what is a cleverly chosen group, and, if he perhaps lacks the last ounce of suaveness ideally required for Faurés L'Horizon chimérique, it's still a convincing performance.

A group of English songs - stand-bys for many a generation of student singers - is delivered with gusto and relish.

Ever since Lemalu's appearance in a televised masterclass, it has been clear that he is destined for great things. This recital, in which the pianist Roger Vignoles plays a full part, confirms it.

12 May 2002 The Times