Search - Claude Debussy, Maurice Ravel, Keller Quartet :: Debussy & Ravel: String Quartets

Apex says it all !

Jeffrey Lee | Asheville area, NC USA | 12/26/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"These two works, I feel, constitute the most musically enchanting impressionistic tone paintings of the chamber repertoire I have ever heard. At one moment, you are caught up in the most exotic of dance rhythms. At another, you are enveloped by the sweetest, most songful sense of longing. But there's also mystery, playfulness, eloquence, sadness and anxiety. These things are all part of the collages these two French masters of sensuousness bring straight to the spirit, often with a compelling intensity.



Previously, I conveyed my views on a cluster of performances of these pieces by some of the finest chamber ensembles. In particular, I cited the outstanding effort of the Emerson Quartet. Now, I must offer praise for a group that, in my estimation, outdoes the Emerson on musical if not technical grounds---the Keller Quartet, on the lesser known Apex label. Listening to excerpts from the Keller's presentations whetted my appetite for hearing all they had to say about these pieces. I purchased their cd and then found myself swept away on a completely spellbinding adventure. There is a wonderful sense of rightness and satisfaction here, and at the price offered by vendors it is a steal!"

Worthy Performance of Debussy

ts9641 | USA | 12/20/2003

(4 out of 5 stars)

"I was hesitant, at first, in purchasing this recording: At $9 - who wouldn't be skeptical. But let me be the first to assure you these recordings of some of the most renowed literature in the chamber medium are at excellent quality for such a bargain price. The Debussy is exceptional - I have never heard it played with so much expression before. There are moments of supreme virtuosity balanced equally with lucid sound. And although - it isn't at Emerson statue (yet) the emotional output far exceeds that pedagogue - that Emerson. My only complaint is that at times - in piano sections - the first violin tends to play inaudibly while it has the melody. The Ravel is phenominal - I can almost picture a 1920's atmosphere - the kind that it paints fo rthe listener - the industrial world of the sound of daily hum drum. Especially that jazzy episode inteh first violin abuot 2 minutes into the first mov. Wonderful music - winderful pathos!"