Search - J.S. Bach, Michel Corboz, Instrumental Ensemble of Lausanne :: J.S. Bach: Mass in B Minor

Unbeatable bargain

Johannes Climacus | Beverly, Massachusetts | 02/12/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Veteran listeners may well remember an earlier recording of the B-Minor Mass under Corboz that circulated here on various labels (a two-LP set from RCA from the mid-1970's and later an Erato 2-CD reissue). That performance (also employing the Lausanne Chamber Choir and Orchestra--modern instruments) was marked by a sprightly manner that avoided any hint of severity or pomposity, sonorous if somewhat undisciplined choral singing, and an uneven (though by no means unacceptable) lineup of soloists. The present recording was taken down from a live performance in 1996 and exhibits similar qualities. Corboz leads a lively rendition with a upbeat, confident manner and some extremely brisk tempos. I have never heard a faster account of the "Sanctus"--but it works surprisingly well. Indeed, I came away from my first audition of this recording feeling exhilarated, as if hearing the *Mass* for the first time. I know of no other modern-instrument version which articulates Bach's dance-inspried rhythms so effectively, or which brings out the charm of the more intimate sections so fetchingly. On the down side, since this is a live recording there are occasional slips of ensemble and articulation. The chorus is recorded rather backwardly in relation to the orchestra, so that, given the ample acoustic, the text is not projected with optimal clarity and the denser contrapuntal textures can sometimes become opaque. The soloists, though reliable, are hardly outsdanding (no rivals to their counterparts in the Klemperer, Richter, Jochum or Solti recordings). But it is Corboz' evident enthusiasm that wins the day. Time and again, the listener is uplifted. And I know of few more riveting moments in any Bach recording than the surge of energy Corboz provides at the culmination of "Gratias Agimus Tibi"/"Dona Nobis Pacem". Except for occasional vagaries of acoustic, the recording is clear, atmospheric and adequately detailed. Given the low price you can't go wrong. Purchase this as a supplement to whatever versions you may already own, or as an introduction to the piece (though be warned, the documentation is predictably inadquate). Strongly recommended in the bargain range."