Robert Fuchs wrote in an unapologetic late German Romantic style that was considered old fashioned in his day (he was replaced as professor of composition in Vienna by Franz Schreker, which speaks volumes). However, with these heartfelt and polished performances of his first two string quartets by the Minguet Quartet, any chamber music enthusiast will find plenty of enjoyment. The Minguet has an excellent ensemble blend from top to bottom. Phrasing is always well thought out, and the sonic atmosphere is expansive in tone yet intimate in effect.
The way these four players gently wade through the lazy Andante grazioso of the Quartet No. 1 reminds me of the Melos Quartet, particularly regarding their approach to the softer accents and their modern European-style portamento. The Con fuoco ending to the final movement makes me think even more of the Melos, as if I were listening to them finish a Brahms quartet. I especially like the very Viennese way the Minguet players treat the Andante of the String Quartet No. 2, and the neat interplay between the shiny, delicate violin lines and the forceful counterpoint of the lower strings in the development section of the first movement. MDG’s sound is warm and highly detailed, creating a good chamber music atmosphere.
