As with his equally successful recording of the Brahms First Symphony, Karel Ancerl’s version of the Second features razor-sharp rhythms, perfect ensemble balance, and fabulous playing from the Czech Philharmonic. Some listeners might detect a slight lack of charm in the third movement, or perhaps may miss the physical lift that others have brought to the closing pages, but in terms of musicality and faithfulness to the composer’s intentions, this performance is outstanding by any measure. Its precision and lack of sentimentality, all at just about ideal tempos, surely would have earned Brahms’ approval, and the same qualities characterize the Double Concerto, with excellent solo work from Suk and Navarra (a touch gruff in tone, perhaps). Remastering has brightened the sound to the point where the climaxes sound a bit aggressive, but better this than boxiness or constriction. Ancerl collectors will need no further encouragement from me, but this disc deserves wider circulation as well. It’s very, very fine.
