Sonata in G major, BWV 1027
Sonata in D major, BWV 1028
Sonata in G minor, BWV 1029
Sonata in G minor, BWV 1030b

Viola da Gamba player Alejandro Marías and Harpsichordist Jordan Fumadó offer us a rhythmically precise account marked by exactingly clear and balanced counterpoint, and a mutual give and take which allows for a constant yet freely moving forward momentum in the faster movements, and beauty of tone within the slower movements. The 1997 Charles Riché (after Michel Colichon) viola da gamba projects a clear and articulate tone, with bite in the upper register and a mellow voice in the bass notes. The 2009 Bruce Kennedy (after Michael Mietke) harpsichord, despite being a bit weak in the upper register, comes across loud and clear in its leading lines. It's obvious that both musicians are masters of their instruments.

If I properly understand the booklet notes, the reason behind the 3+1 title of this CD is that besides the usual three Sonatas, it seems that a copyist for Bach who had copied the composer's Sonata for Flute and Harpsichord BWV 1030, had also published a copy of the same work arranged for the viola da gamba, which would explain its inclusion here. Its final Presto movement certainly imposes high technical demands in its relentless motion, met with aplomb here from both players.

Once again, the Spanish label Eudora Records presents a clearly defined audio recording captured in natural acoustics, and sets perfect dynamic balance between the two instruments.