For all that one is used to Hakim’s coruscating brilliance, the sheer technical skill and white-hot intensity of the Hakim imagination in blending these dirge-like themes into music left this Scotsman duly open
mouthed.

From nearly every point of view this disc is a treat. First, it is a historical document, the inaugural recital – no less – of Glenalmond College's new Harrison & Harrison organ. Its 26 stops, spread over two manuals, are comprehensively explored by Naji Hakim, Messiaen's successor at La Trinité in Paris. He opens this Franco-Belgian display with a centenary tribute to his master and friend Jean Langlais before turning the clock back 300 years to de Grigny's affecting Récit de tierce en taille. Boëllmann's Prière is carefully controlled, eschewing saccharine and providing a tranquil meditation between Franck's A minor Chorale and the specially commissioned Glenalmond Suite.
Initially the Franck seems perfunctory, but the dryish acoustic demands a swifter approach than we are accustomed to. Hakim's Suite and the dozen Sakskøbing Preludes (2005, based on Danish hymns) are deliciously enjoyable and entertaining.
In the latter he weaves fresh and attractive textures from unfamiliar melodic material.
The Suite is based on the chime of Glenalmond's clock tower. The excellent programme note explains fully the biblical allusions of the four movements, the last of which romps along in quasi-theatre organ style, hinting at silent movie chase sequences and the tango! Although billed as a live recording the audience is entirely silent. However, there are more 'noises off' in the concluding Improvisation in which Hakim contrasts 'Amazing Grace' with 'Auld Lang Syne'. This last track slightly outstays its welcome but don't let this caveat put you off. The playing is beautifully polished, the organ sound is natural and engrossing and the booklet full of interest.

The playing is beautifully polished, the organ sound is natural and engrossing and the booklet full of interest.