Rare masterpieces
Amadeus 888 | London | 09/22/2005
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Faure's piano quartets and quintets are the quintessence and perfection of what is called "French impressionist" music. Hidden and unacknowledged for a very long time, they are gradually becoming more and more popular as more people seem to recognise their awesome, yet extremely subtle beauty, elegance and genius.
I bought this double CD a year ago, and only recently after many repeated listenings did I slowly begin to realise what a treasure I had in my hands, which was funny because I have been listening to Faure for a rather long time. Needless to say, I can't take the CD out of my player. Each listening is a revelation, because these pieces go much deeper than they seem.
This music (and especially the slower movements) breaks my heart with longing for a world of glistening beauty, love and sweetness.
If you love music of beauty and elegance and the French impressionist repertoire, give this CD a chance.
In the beginning maybe you won't find much (especially if you are not familiar with Faure and this type of music), but if you dig deeper with repeated listenings, trust me this CD will be a revelation!"
Avoid this disc
Amadeus 888 | 12/27/2003
(2 out of 5 stars)
"Pascal Roge and Ysaye give fine performances which are unfortunately spoiled by a distracting reverberant acoustic. I would advise those interested in this repertoire to forego this duo in favour of Domus' recordings which are available on two separate Hyperion discs."