I am intruiged by the continuing Bax cycle on Naxos.
#1 is a trememdous performance let down by a poor recording. The trombones
buzz to an extent that they could be used to strip wallpaper.
#2 the jewel in the crown. Beautifully structured Symphony with lots of
colour and imagination. Dramatic sound and very musical performance.
#3 I have heard that the ending is not as enegmatic as it could be.
Haven't been able to compare it with the Bryden Thompson version yet.
#5 the best recorded of the three. However, I feel something is wrong
with the work itself. Many of the ideas and rhythms sound routine.
The 'optimistic' coda seems tacked on. Is the composer's inspiration
flagging??? Am I missing something?
Am looking forward to the Tintagel in this cycle. All the best,
David H.
Nottingham, UK