Schubert Complete Symphonies — Günter Wand

This is one of the most all-round satisfactory (digital) cycles of the Schubert…

The Bell Jar — Sylvia Plath

If Aliens were ever to visit us (if they haven’t so far) they might think that our everyday lives are simple…

Nearly ideal Mahler 3 — Haitink/Bavarian RSO

This is an exceptional Mahler 3rd.

Underrated. Skrowaczewski was an underrated conductor in his lifetime. Yes the press would review the CDs he would release on smaller record labels but he was never the sensational…

Lindberg, Pettersson Symphony 5 & 7

The 16 symphonies of Allan Pettersson have often been described as music of pain, anguish, and…

The Luminaries — Eleanor Catton

The Luminaries by Eleanor Catton is massive book: massive in size, scope and depth.

What has not been mentioned so far is the mystical element of the book. Catton uses astrological charts that…

Currentzis, Tchaikovsky Symphony 6 “Pathetique”

Currentzis seems to shock and awe with each new release. I had been eagerly anticipating this Tchaikovsky release, having been exposed to the conductor’s introspective rendition of the Violin Concerto with Patricia Kopatchinskaja. Surprisingly…

Bruckner Symphony 8 — Jansons, Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra

“Bruckner’s Eighth Symphony is the zenith of…

Rachmaninov Piano Concertos 2 & 3 — Buniatashvili / Jarvi

At last excellent modern performances of…

Beethoven, Perahia, Moonlight & Hammerklavier Sonatas