RACHMANINOV - ISLE OF THE DEAD / SYMPHONY NO.1 Russian National Orchestra/Mikhail Pletnev Deutsche Grammophon 463 075-2 Full Price

This CD forms part of a complete set of Rachmaninov's symphonies and symphonic works recorded by the Russian National Orchestra for DG under the baton of Mikhail Pletnev.

The two works presented here are not Rachmaninov's best-known; the First Symphony is more familiar for its chequered history (disastrous premiere, composer's mental breakdown and subsequent rehabilitation, withdrawal of the work from public performance) and has only recently re-emerged into the mainstream repertoire. Some may argue that Rachmaninov was a better composer after his fresh start - certainly the series of works which began with the Second Piano Concerto show impeccable craftsmanship and, of course, wonderful tunes - but there is no question that the Rachmaninov of the First Symphony was utterly different to his later, more familiar guise.

This is music of unrestrained ardour. The gestures are bold, sometimes even brash. All these qualities are captured in fine style by Pletnev and his Moscow orchestra, who give a masterly performance which displays an instinctive identification with the uninhibited soul of this music.

No less successful is the superbly-paced performance of the Isle of the Dead. This piece should, without question, be heard more often - perhaps it's the gloomy title and sombre colouring of the piece that scare off British audiences and promoters. But this is one of Rachmaninov's mature masterpieces, written at the peak of his powers, showing an admirable balance of sober restraint and open romanticism. Pletnev picks an ideal tempo for the lapping 5/8 figure which pervades the work, and builds the climaxes with excellent control.

I would highly recommend this disc.

Paul Janes