If one wanted to describe the essence of this recording of Nikolai Kapustin's works for cello, the first words to spring to mind would be groove, swing, wit and charm. There are few CDs that present such an exciting and entertaining mix of classical music and jazz as this new release.

Born in 1937 in Ukraine, Nikolai Kapustin had already gained worldwide acclaim as a jazz pianist, arranger and composer by the 1950s. It's only over the past eight years, however, that he has become better known to a wider audience on account of his several recordings. Kapustin’s music combines the style and rhythmic vitality of jazz with classical forms – something that seems to strike a real chord with audiences and musicians who are interested in experiencing new sounds beyond the classical repertoire.

The young cellist Christine Rauh maintained close contact with the composer throughout the recording process, and she performs here with an outstanding collection of young musicians, from both classical and jazz backgrounds.