Customer Reviews

RCA Victor Basic 100, Vol. 72- Prokofiev: Alexander Nevsky, Lt. Kije Suite

5 star:		(3)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

This Alexander Nevsky is different then many others because it has the choir singing in English, as opposed to the original Russian. The Latin sections are still kept in latin, however. The choir is outstanding. For one looking for excellent low-brass playing, few recordings can match this one made at the height of the CSO's glory under Reiner. There are a few minor problems in this recording(intonation, ensemble togetherness) that would probably not show up on a modern digital recording, but these are easily overlooked, as this is an amazing recording nonetheless. The mezzo soloist is absolutely enchanting. This recording is highly recommended!

It's hard to imagine a more stirring performance with respect to conductor, orchestra, and chorus. A minor distraction is that the text is sung in English translation, revealing to those who listen closely the inanity of some of the content.

First off, the sonics on this recording are astounding. If you are listening to the performance on a good stereo or surround sound system, you are in for an exceptional treat. The Chicago/Reiner sound is as fresh as it was in 1959 when the recording was made. Did you get that? This recording was made in 1959! Oh, what wonders modern technology has wrought.

Sit down and listen, and you are there! Wonderful stuff!

This is a superb recording of Alexander Nevsky. while others are bothered by the fact that the vocals are in english, i'm bothered that Lieutenant Kije is instrumental without the vocals. because other than that fault, this is an excellent CD.