This re-release of Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture with Erich Kunzel and the Cincinnati Symphony is not to be confused with Telarc’s more recent version (type Q3406 in Search Reviews) using the same performers. The SACD newly affords the opportunity to hear the full, life-like dynamic range of the 1978 original recording, famous for its “digital cannons” (and clamoring church bells). It’s an impressive technical accomplishment to be sure, but one of somewhat dubious musical value as the recording balance positions the orchestra seemingly far in the distance, while the cannons sound so close you can practically smell the gunpowder. Maybe this is why Kunzel’s undifferentiated performance sounds a bit stale–except, that is, for the noisily festive conclusion. Kunzel’s Capriccio Italien and Cossack Dance have a bit more zest, but these were mastered at the same impact-robbing level as the 1812–perhaps to preserve the disc’s sonic continuity?
There’s certainly no musical continuity in programming Gershwin with Tchaikovsky, although Gershwin probably would have liked sharing the bill with the great Russian composer. At least in this case the recording level is more normal, allowing you to hear the Cincinnati Symphony in a natural perspective. And they do play this music handsomely, with lots of panache–even if Kunzel’s interpretation of both works sounds more European than American (especially compared to the jazzy verve of Bernstein or Maazel). There are better options available for all of the above works, but if you’re seeking cannon-fired audiophile thrills in the 1812, this disc will surely suffice.
