Classical guitar wonder David Russell follows up his strong disc featuring the music of Mauro Giuliani with this fresh set of Baroque transcriptions. Thanks to Russell's impeccable technique and lyrical playing, you might even forget that these are transcriptions at all. Russell's interpretation of Jean Baptiste Loeillet's Suite No. 1 in G minor is impressive for its depth--these six dances range from jaunty (Corente) to graceful (Sarabanda), but the guitarist never falters. On Vivaldi's cello sonata, Russell grippingly conveys the composer's dark, meditative side during the Largo movements. But performing nine of Scarlatti's numerous harpsichord sonatas, Russell really gets to shine; these pieces seem tailor-made for the guitarist's agile fingers and understated style. Russell isn't the flashiest classical guitarist you'll hear, but his thoughtful and solid performances on this disc speak for themselves. --Jason Verlinde