There's a hint of Wagnerian majesty in the [Odin] scene, otherwise the shadow of Britten lies long over the music, not only in the shape of the melodic lines, but also in the clarity of the orchestration. Baritone Roderick Williams is impressive in the title role...and all the smaller parts are well filled.

Roderick Williams bring his customary authority and insight...The BBC Singers acquit their solo and choral roles with conviction, while Andre de Ridder secures playing of clarity and refinement from the BBC Symphony Orchestra...A near-exemplary presentation of the work that offers much of substance in its treatment of an age-old yet continually relevant narrative, and which anyone at all interested in English-language opera needs to hear.

Musically, some of the score is striking, its modality very different from the style of Saxton's earlier works...The performance... is first rate; it's a major undertaking that has been realised with great care.

The score, often tonal but employing ethereal electronic techniques, is delicately coloured and lyrical, more meditation than opera...As the narrator mourns the lawless revellers and surveys total devastation and "the Temple flames" which "herald no dawn", this heartfelt work takes on new urgency.

This project blew me away...Saxton’s tonal (or modal) musical language ranges from the cinematic spectacular to rapt spirituality. And the piece is compellingly delivered by a strong cast led by Roderick Williams as the Jew. Saxton calls it a “radio opera”. That’s too pessimistic. It deserves staging.