Bruckner for Modernists
Scott Spires | Prague, Czech Republic | 03/03/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Skrowaczewski is a prince among underrated conductors, and hearing him conduct this Matterhorn of a symphony was one of my best concert-going experiences. No recording can replicate the excitement of live music, but you can get pretty close with this disc. This Bruckner 9th isn't plush and nostalgic, but tense, lean and somewhat neurotic. The first two movements are energetic and driven; the haunting final Adagio culminates in an earthquake-like climax that will tear your ears to shreds. A whole world of modern music seems to be struggling, with great anguish, to be born. If you prefer a more orthodox interpretation, Bruno Walter is a perennial favorite; but you won't go wrong with Skrowaczewski, especially if you like a modernistic approach."
Music and Sound
Cheryl ORegan | USA | 06/10/2000
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Its rare to have both a recording not only sound great but also have such a superb reading of this piece. Bruckner's ninth is very special and Skrowaczewski and the Minnesota Orch. did not let me down on this. I listen to it often and enjoy it and hear something new each time. Everyone has their own tastes but generally speaking I feel the majority would love this CD. Listen and enjoy."
Second best Bruckner 9
tgdallas | Varkiza, Athens Greece | 11/08/2000
(4 out of 5 stars)
"This is very special, spiritual, music; very well played; superbly recorded. I enjoy it immensely, although I feel that Jochum in my worn-out DG LP has a slight edge on performance."