If you have Václav Talich’s recording of the Slavonic Dances in its previous Supraphon incarnation, hang onto it! Whether as a result of tape deterioration or over-processing, this elegantly-packaged first volume in the label’s new complete edition is missing both high frequencies and overall clarity. And fine as these performances are (and they really are), the best Slavonic Dances of all is Karel Sejna’s with this same orchestra, which was recorded in very good stereo. Other issues in this series (such as Janácek’s Taras Bulba) do indeed sound much better than previously, so it’s likely the problem lies more with the condition of the original 1950 source material rather than bad reprocessing, but it’s a pity all the same. Unless you want to hear the bonus four minutes of Talich working at the recording session, stick with what you have. If you’re new to this great conductor, then you can purchase this release confident in its solid artistic values, but I doubt you’ll be impressed with the sound. [8/11/2005]
