What better way to review an album subtitled Create the Perfect Dinner Mood than to invite some people around for dinner and see what they thought?
None of us were particularly au fait with classical music, but the album provided a pleasant accompaniment. It was unobtrusive and did not interfere with
dinner table conversation, but was interesting enough to pop up in that conversation from time to time.
Featuring a combination of vocal and instrumental numbers, including New Zealand's own Hayley Westenra, the two CD set also lasted through two courses and most of the washing up.
The music was varied, but the tracks were all upbeat enough to contribute to the positive and cheerful atmosphere of the meal.
For hosts unsure of the musical tastes of their guests, this album offers an inoffensive alternative to inflicting Ronan Keating on thrash metallists or scaring poppier party goers off with Slayer's greatest hits.