Search - Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov, Paul [composer] Dukas, Jaromir Weinberger :: Orchestral Spectaculars

Superb Performances - Demonstration Quality Sound

Henry Mautner | Ludlow, KY, USA | 12/30/1999

(5 out of 5 stars)

"The Cincinnati Pops has never released a finer recording than this collection of blockbuster showpieces for orchestra. The performances of the Samson & Delilah "Bacchanale" and the "Polka and Fugue" from Schwanda are superb - the latter compares more than favorably with Reiner's legendary Chicago Symphony recording. But the jewel in the crown is the "Procession of the Nobles," which here receives what may be its finest recorded performance ever. The orchestra is at its hair-trigger best throughout the CD, and the sound is extraordinarily natural - I live in Cincinnati, hear the orchestra frequently, and can testify that this is as close as you can come to being in Music Hall without actually having to fight the traffic. Regardless of your level of musical sophistication, buy this one with absolute confidence - you won't be disappointed."

A sonic showcase

Steven H. Hulme | Boise, ID USA | 07/30/1999

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is wonderful music! And... you will not find a better disc to showcase your $20,000 audio system, or take to the audio store for auditioning, than this! The dynamic range takes full advantage of the digital format - the quiet passages are whispers, the loud passages will shake your foundations! I purchased it when it first came out in '87 (NOT from Amazon!); it dazzled me on the first play, and continues to dazzle! Personal favorites include "Sorcerer's Apprentice," "Schwanda the Bagpiper" (joyful!), and "Samson and Delilah" (the frenzied climax will leave you gasping!)"

Nice!

Gerald N. Meredith | 01/28/2009

(4 out of 5 stars)

"I am a jazz man but exploring new music. Therefore, I don't know how qualified I am to evaluate this area of music other than the fact that I know what sounds good to my ears. This music is very cool sounding. Very spectacular as the title indicates as well as explosive and dynamic. Along with the tonal colors and textures, this music is very satisfying to my ears. I would also assume, the better the audio system the better the performance you get. Recommended."