Here’s a no-brainer–the best recording of Erich Korngold’s wonderful Symphony in F-sharp, and not just because of the classy playing of the Philadelphia Orchestra, which really is gorgeous. No, the real star of this show is Franz Welser-Möst, who not only reveals himself sensitive to every cinematic detail of the orchestration (just listen to how much he picks up as the scherzo goes whizzing by), but who also understands how to hold the piece together symphonically. This means urgent tempos in the outer movements, and more importantly, accurate, tight rhythm. There’s no way he’s going to let this music degenerate into Hollywood mush. I particularly like his hard and gritty approach to the first movement, relieved only by hints of that melting lyricism that blossoms out in the adagio. This also is one of the best recordings EMI made in Phildelphia: clear but aptly opulent. The songs make a welcome bonus, with Barbara Hendricks singing well. I like Mariettas Lied and the four (of six) Simple Songs, but frankly the reason to own this is for the symphony. At this new low price, it’s a steal. [3/22/2005]
