METRO  (London) Jan 4   2007
LONDON OCTAVE WITH JAMES BOWMAN
      Isn't it strange how yesterday's innovation can so quickly become today's dull orthodoxy? A few years ago, when it was the norm to hear Bach and Handel played on modern instruments, the period-instrument revival seemed like a breath of fresh air. Suddenly new colours were released, new sounds were available, and a forgotten repertoire sprang to life. Great: but the downside, was modern-instrument performances came to be regarded as infra-dig, and many period performances became a rehash of stylistics and mannerisms.
    As evidence for the defence of the modern instrument, catch tonight's concert by the sparkling group London Octave. Formed in 1988 by cellist Dietrich Bethge, it specialises in baroque music with an unashamedly healthy, vibrant and modern sound - and there's not a hint of the orthodox preciousness that can mar run-of-the-mill period performances. Go to website www.londonoctave.com and you can hear what I mean. Tonight's concert features rich voiced counter tenor James Bowman who sings Bach..…….Handel's ever popular Arrival of the Queen of Sheba. Great Fun.                                        Warwick Thompson

MANCHESTER EVENING NEWS Jan 23 2004
LONDON OCTAVE  "Better Baroque"
This CD was sent to me through the enthusiasm of a music-lover in Hampshire (amazing where these reviews get to!) - and I'm glad to say it is quite excellent. Baroque music on modern instruments may not be every purist's cup of Earl Grey but I think what matters is the way the music is played - and these performers win hands-down on that point……..They include Lorraine McAslan, an international violin soloist who needs no introduction, and Chetham's-trained Clare Hoffman, who is principal second violin of the English Chamber Orchestra. The pianist, Yevgeny Sudbin (who plays a Bach concerto and three Scarlatti sonatas) is a brilliant young Russian. So, for outstandingly musical and lively versions of The Arrival Of The Queen Of Sheba, Pachelbel's Canon, the Badinerie from Bach's flute and strings suite in B minor (with the distinguished William Bennett as soloist), the "Air on the G String", Spring from The Four Seasons, and so on, you need look no further.            Robert Beale