Starting its recording contract with the Somm label, the
Coull String Quartet has commenced a Mozart series, of which this 2004 release is the first installment. Interestingly, the ensemble has selected three of Mozart's most attention-getting works, the String Quartet in B flat major, K. 458, "The Hunt"; the String Quartet in C major, K. 465, "Dissonant"; and the Adagio and Fugue in C minor, K. 456 -- altogether an unusual way to kick off a cycle, but sure to attract listeners whose knowledge of Mozart's string music is limited to the celebrated "Haydn" set. As an ensemble, the
Coull is spontaneous in repartee, meticulous in execution, and pleasantly varied in sonorities, and its thoughtful interpretations cut to the works' emotional cores, making K. 458 radiantly joyful, K. 465 taut and energetic, and K. 456 profoundly affecting. Additionally, the distinctive tones of each player contribute to a sense of depth and create the breathing room that Mozart's highly individualized parts really need. Naturally, this first outing may not win everyone's trust, and compared to several groups with demonstrated track records in Mozart, the
Coull has more to prove in the coming volumes. But this CD is a promising beginning, and likely to find a following among aficionados. Somm's sound quality is terrific.