Customer Reviews

Messiaen: Quartet for the End of Time

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
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..irrespective of price. Another winner for Naxos and collectors of great music!.

Naxos has given us several fine Messiaen releases, and this version of the Quatuor is certainly one of them, even if it isn't, in the end, a first choice. The Amici Ensemble puts in some superb touches and some movements are truly wondrous, but there are still certain inaccuracies (the rhythm in the final movement) and questionable choices with respect to interpretation. To take some of the strengths, however: The opening of the first movements is marvelous; clearly textured, hauntingly evocative and perfectly judged in terms of balance between the instruments. Indeed, the following two movements are fabulous as well, both in the dreamlike second movement and the solo clarinet third (Valdepeñas technical abilities are truly remarkable, as is his interpretive approach). The Intermède sounds a little lacking in intensity (but it is still beautiful) and the Louange is unfortunately not as sublime as one could wish for - it is just a little too earthy and sentimental. The Danse de la fureur is very satisfying, however, but in the last two movements something of the ethereal sublimity is again missing, and while the second Louange is generally good, there is the aforementioned problems with rhythm. Sound quality is generally fine, though, and at the price I think no one will be disappointed with this one.

Without question this is one of the best pieces of chamber music I have ever heard. It's unlike anything I've ever heard(even other Messiaen works), and what really struck me about it is how simplistic it is, yet, somehow, within such simplicity is awe-inspiring depth. Anyone who can appreciate 20th century music should most definitely look into this incredible work.