Search - Dmitry Shostakovich, Yoel Levi, Atlanta Symphony Orchestra :: Shostakovich: Symphony No. 8

Well played, but unmoving interpretation

05/24/1999

(3 out of 5 stars)

"Atlanta always amazes me for their technical brilliance and vibrant sound. Unfortunately these two aspects have become the sole focus of this recording. As perfect as the playing was, it sounded more like robots than people with emotions. I liked Levi's tempo choices but in the end he failed to bring significant emotion into this incredibly violent and sad symphony. Atlanta's sound may in fact be too bright for this symphony, which requires more dark and deep sounds. If you are looking for good Levi Shotakovich, go with his recording of the fifth and ninth symphonies."