RCA Victor Living Stereo has done it again! This disc is a true classic. It is a fine overview of great Russian music from earliest classical period up to the 20th century. Russian music has always been up there with the most exciting, most passionate, most sensuous ever written. This disc is an outstanding example of that fact. Modest Mussorgsky's two great works, Pictures at an Exhibition and Night on Bald Mountain, are fine examples of fiery music which can't fail to move you. The Overture from Glinka's Russlan and Ludmilla and Kabalevsky's Coles Breugnon Overture add to the passion and excitement as do all of the selections on this outstanding disc. Not to be overlooked by any means is the fantastic job the Fritz Reiner and the CSO do in presenting this music. Reiner is far and away my pick as the most outstanding maestro of the 20th century, and he sculpted the Chicago Symphony into one of the greatest orchestras ever. They are at the peak of their artistry in this recording. Reiner had a rare gift for this Russian music, and it is truly evident in his work here. I would be remiss if I did not mention the quality of the sound on this magnificent recording. The whole series of Living Stereo discs is remarkable for its sound, and this one will certainly not disappoint. It is a sonic treat. Finally, the liner notes leave nothing to be desired. They offer an insight to Mussorgsky's Pictures at an Exhibition of which I was entirely unaware. All in all, this CD is a treat at any price, and at the bargain that it is, I can only recommend highly that you scoop it up while it is still availableRead full review
Great performance. Not up to audiophile standards, but this SACD is probably as good as possible for best sound.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
a favorite LP; now CD.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
This is a classic recording dating back to the 1950's. Reiner is still considered the best in PICUTRES.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
Awesome dynamics and perfotmance
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
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