Review by Oscar June 1, 2008 (5 of 6 found this review helpful)
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Performance: Sonics: |
The real hero of this recording is the Czech Philharmonic Orchestra, giving an all-out performance of this complex score.
The sound of the CPO is idally suited for Mahler symphonies: fine burnished sound (like old gold) power to spare and a slightly veiled quality in the tuttis. Thus, they capture magnificently the decadence of this score, which was s sort of Mahler farwell to tonality, and also a reflection of the Vienna that was slowly fading away, giving the cue to harsher, more dramatic times.
Z.Macal, the conductor, gives a no-nonsense interpretation of the work, following strictly the markings of the score, but nevertheless finding the right tone and timbre for a work of these epochal characteristics. He uses rubato and glissando sparingly, and to obtain a special decadent athmosphere that permeates this work. He achieves a very persuasive interpretation, without histrionics, reliying basically on a realistical sound.stage through which the narrative of the work is developed.
The sound by Exton technical team is top notch, combining clarity an amplitude in near-ideal proportions.
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