Search - Gustav Holst, William [composer] Walton, Adrian Boult :: Holst: The Planets

Probably the most powerful archive of The Planets

02/15/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"
THIS RECORDING of Holst's "Planets" is a wartime classic : Recorded in England, in 1945, that performance is a sure testimony as to Adrian Boult's mastery and upright technique in connection with the famous work. Although his latest recordings obviously sound much better (above all the superb 1970's LPO for EMI), they neither catch thoroughly the "sense of atmosphere" of the wartime performance--nor do we hear the raw and powerful gravity that permeates the old recording. Boult is quite certainly the ideal conductor for The Planets which he recorded five times. The 1945 sound, however flawed by sonic limitations, is more satisfying than deceiving--we've heard worse. To do this recording justice, my rating is based on the sole criterion of performance (and relevancy, as this is a valuable document on both conductor and work). The very same performance has been released on a few other labels ; however, this mid-price cd is a good option considering it also contains excellent works by Walton (such as a near glorious version of 'Crown Imperial').



And there is the 1959 Vienna State Opera Orchestra recording, once released on the legendary Westminster label, under Boult's direction : In my opinion, it's a fine version in spite of 'Mars' which seriously lacks fire. And, for that matter, recorded sound is marred by some roughness. Small gripes aside, i think it is a good one overall. The composer's own historic recordings (from the 1920's) are excellent in every aspect but the sound. Anyway, that's interesting to have the chance to hear Holst's personal view of his renowned music.



I have fond memories of Gustav Holst's Planets in an admirable Mackerras/RLPO recording - just superb - as well as a great sounding Previn/Royal Philharmonic recording for Telarc. I've recently discovered the Levine/Chicago recording and think it is worthy of the "great ones". Of course, the 1945 Boult/BBC is now one of my favorites as well (perhaps should i consider myself a "fan" of Sir Adrian?).



*****

"