A superb recording!
plasticphysical | Chicago USA | 09/04/2002
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Many discs contain the majority of this repertoire. Few, however, contain performances as sympathic, nuanced and united as this one. And none contain the 17 Variations by Jean-Michel Damase, a masterpiece in wind quintet literature and a reason by itself to purchase this recording. The Milhaud is a warhorse in the repertoire, yet the Reykjavik ensemble keep it fresh. Jean Françaix's Quintet No.1 is another masterwork - not performed with any frequency until recently. Perhaps changing views about Françaix's music (the idea that enjoyable music equals "light" or unimportant music) have contributed to this development. It, along with the Damase, present incredible demands on the performers, yet the works themselves, when executed properly, unfold with an ease that belies their difficulty. The other works are equally well played and the recording quality has the warmth one expects from Chandos without sacrificing impeccible clarity. Why the Reykjavik ensemble is not far better known is a mystery, but one can only hope there will be many more performances to enjoy in the future."
Exquisite French Wind Collection
rodboomboom | Dearborn, Michigan United States | 02/16/2004
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Here gathered on a CD are the reportoire of eight French composers for wind quintet, wonderfully performed by Reykjavik Wind Quintet.Wonderful bassoon rolic in Damase's "Variations" as well the delightful piece by Francaix, with its amazing variety of instrumental textures.This quintet is exceptional, all from the Iceland Symphony."