Furtwangler: Intense, dreadful sound.
Maag: magnificent, part of the Veneto Orchestra Arts cycle. Intense, full of vibrant passion and love of the music.
Cluytens: Great, such a contrast to the feeble Von K remake.
Michael Sanderling: curious recording, recessed. Very slow.
I just got around to making that comparison, Dieter, Here's the Sanderling:
Right from the Allegro con brio of the first movement, it's electric, even in mono sound.
Here's that second movement Larghetto from YNZ:
Those thin, droning lower strings and whining violins are so soulless - and the inevitable brisk phrasing means he can despatch the whole thing fully three minutes faster than Sanderling, just in case any emotional indulgence should spoil its brisk efficiency. So it skims along, leaving barely a ripple on the surface.
All very well, my friend. However, just listen to the 2nd movement of Symphony 2 as conducted by Kurt Sanderling, also on DG, Leningrad Phil, 1956. Then play Nequet's prosaic run-through and ask yourself, who is making music? I have no further questions, your honour.
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