Václav Neumann’s 1967 Ma Vlast receives the luxury treatment in Berlin Classics’ new reissue, with the CD case packaged in a felt-covered, gold-stamped box, and the booklet containing beautiful color photos and art reproductions. Smetana’s great work is certainly worthy of such presentation. And the performance itself? Well, that Neumann clearly knows and deeply loves this music is evident in every bar, and the performance does carry an air of authority. His tempos are a bit on the slow side, with the overall mood being that of a wise old storyteller rather than an inspired and declamatory poet. (The exception being Šárka, where Neumann’s pace and energy matches the legend’s fiery drama).
The Leipzig Gewandhaus plays handsomely for Neumann, presumably giving him everything he demands. It’s just that Kubelik demands more–and gets more–from the Boston Symphony, which provides glorious playing captured in excellent sound. (Ancerl offers similar intensity with the Czech Philharmonic). The Berlin Classics recording, though clear and bright, betrays its 1967 vintage in its limited dynamic range. Nonetheless, Neumann’s warm-hearted rendition is worth collecting as a second or third version.
