Dowland 400 — Thomas Dunford + Jupiter

The John Lennon of the 16th century

The ‘John Lennon of the 16th century’ – that is how Thomas Dunford describes the English composer John Dowland. It’s a fair comparison; through his songs and the instrumental collection Lachrimae, or Seven Tears, Dowland is still considered one of England’s most significant composers. His works are like pop songs that inspire today’s musicians – take, for instance, Sting’s successful Dowland album, Songs from the Labyrinth. Four hundred years after Dowland’s death, the lutenist and leader of ensemble Jupiter performs the composer’s finest works. An ode full of poignant songs and moving instrumental works. 

To mention John Dowland is to mention Thomas Dunford. Together with his ensemble Jupiter and a rotating cast of guest soloists, the lutenist makes one stunning album after another. Gramophone described their latest CD, Songs of Passion, as ‘almost overwhelmingly good’. The same album earned a perfect 10 in the Dutch magazine Luister for its ‘profound understanding of this music’. Live, Dunford and Jupiter are unsurpassed in Dowland’s work.

"Thomas Dunford’s supple technique, combined with his passion for jazz, allows him to embellish and develop written texts with an improvisatory freedom, casting a new light on early music... A true ‘Eric Clapton’ of the lute." Kate Bolton (BBC Magazine)