When this CD first found itself in my letter box, I was not so keen to sample Bruckner from Denmark although having been weaned on the large symphonic visions of the more classic Vienna and Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra's interpretations of these works, a Northern orchestra should do them justice.
And I have to admit that I was not disappointed. The craggy grandeur and marvelous string sound of the Aarhus orchestra are quite invigorating throughout and under Loughran's impassioned direction the lyrical beauty of this great work flows through in a manner which is almost effortless.
I am particularly enthusiastic about the wonderful Adagio which is judiciously paced, recalling memories of Karajan's last recording with the Vienna Philharmonic in 1989, almost 20 years ago now. Bo Marschner's notes do sound rather dilettante-esque but they are acceptable when accompanying a performance of such stature.
Copyright © 2007, Gerald Fenech