Recorded in 1992 and 1993 and previously released in 1994 and 2002, the recordings on this 2007 reissue in Berlin Classics' Basics series are serviceable renditions of four of
Franz Liszt's better known symphonic poems. The pieces are based on literary works, and
Liszt's sweeping music reflects the intensely dramatic moods of the originals: Tasso is derived from a play, Torquato Tasso by
Johann Wolfgang von Goethe; Mazeppa was inspired by two heroic poems of the same title by Lord Byron and Victor Hugo; Les Préludes is rather loosely linked to a poem by Alphonse de Lamartine; and Orphée follows the ancient myth of Orpheus. The passionate spirit of this essentially Romantic music is fully communicated by the
Dresdner Philharmonie under
Michel Plasson, and the technical execution is quite fine in all four performances, but the recorded sound is not on the same high level. Even though the recordings are fully digital and clear in most details, they lack sonic depth and a vibrant physical presence, so listening to them is not a satisfying experience, least of all for anyone accustomed to state-of-the-art reproduction. Despite the orchestra's apparent skill and expressiveness, it seems inadequately miked and shallow, and the volume has to be turned up fairly high to get a credible ensemble sound. Still, this is a good album that beginners and casual listeners may derive some benefit from, though eventually they may wish to pursue better sounding alternatives.