Review by Luukas November 19, 2015 (2 of 6 found this review helpful)
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Strauss's "Ein Heldenleben" tells a story of the strong hero [the portrait of the composer] which finally leaves the world with the moving farewell. This SACD was my first impression of the work - before that the tone poem was really unknown for me.
Bernard Haitink is one of the greatest Strauss-conductors today - his earlier recording with the London Symphony Orchestra ("An Alpine Symphony", LSO Live) was a great pleasure for me and a real orchestral adventure. By the way, this comparison is also very good in its own way - supported by the crystal clear surround sound the recording sets the listener to the platform of the conductor. The majestic beginning of the work is beautifully performed here with the heavy sound of the brass - the hero appeared to the stage. The next movement, "The enemies of the hero", is also carefully presented. The offstage trumpets of the battle section are thrillingly recorded - the rears gives a realistic sound-picture of the orchestra. Impressive experience, indeed! The conclusion of the work is touching but quite stressful.
• Performance: **** (Nice, but I'm looking forward the upcoming SACD (PENTATONE) of the work) • Recording: ****1/2 (Simply marvelous but the dry acoustics of the concert hall was a disappointment for me) • Packaging: **** (just a normal jewel case)
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