New releases this week

Five new classical albums worth hearing

Still Light album art

Still Light

Mara Venn, The North Sea Ensemble

A spacious set of new chamber works built around piano, clarinet, and quietly shifting strings. It is an inviting place to start if you like contemporary classical music that feels melodic without becoming predictable.

Unfolding: Works for Cello album art

Unfolding: Works for Cello

Elian Moreau

Moreau moves between unaccompanied cello and subtle electronic textures, giving these performances an intimate, late-night character. The playing is warm and direct, with plenty of room for the pieces to breathe.

The Glass Garden album art

The Glass Garden

Aiko Tanaka, Orchestra of St. Jude

A vivid orchestral album pairing a newly commissioned violin concerto with two short tone poems. Its bright percussion and restless solo writing make it the most energetic recommendation in this week's selection.

Nocturnes from the Edge of the City album art

Nocturnes from the Edge of the City

Ruth Calder Quartet

These compact string quartets translate city sounds into delicate repeated figures and sudden bursts of motion. It is precise, atmospheric music that rewards both focused listening and a quiet evening in.

Borrowed Air album art

Borrowed Air

Sofia Ilyin, Jonas Reed

Soprano, prepared piano, and field recordings meet in a song cycle inspired by changing landscapes. The unusual palette stays restrained throughout, placing Ilyin's clear vocal performance at the centre.