If you already bought the single-disc release of Symphonies 2 and 4 (reviewed in 2007), then you’re out of luck; to complete the cycle with Symphonies Nos. 1 and 3, you’ll have to duplicate your initial purchase. But on the plus side, the performances are just as fine as previously–and in fact comprise the only recommendable Schumann cycle in Mahler’s rescoring. Once again there are some impressive moments, mostly concerning brass, timpani, and occasionally woodwinds. The great horn call in the first movement of the Rhenish, for example, starts with stopped tones, continues piano, and features some striking woodwind timbres. Mahler also restores the original pitch of the opening brass call in the “Spring” Symphony. Chailly conducts gutsy, vivacious performances throughout, though for some reason the sonics aren’t as fine this time around: the orchestra seems squeezed toward the center of the stereo spectrum, and there isn’t the same warmth and richness to the lower end (cellos, basses, and timpani). Still, this is a wonderful set for fans of Schumann and Mahler alike. [2/20/2008]
