ASV has paid some attention to Karoly Goldmark in recent years, recording his Rustic Wedding Symphony and Symphony No. 2. This time around, they are giving us two relatively early Goldmark works: his string quartet of 1860 and string quintet of 1862. The ensemble performing these works is the Fourth Dimension String Quartet, a female quartet in their first recording. For the string quintet, they are joined by David Smith who has long been a member of the Alberni String Quartet. I think that Richard Pennycuick had indicated that Goldmark and Satz would not be a good combination. I listen when Richard speaks but still acquired this ASV disc because I generally have less trouble with romantic-era composers in their chamber works (and I'm contrary). Both Goldmark works are very good. They have some beautiful melodies, development is highly professional, and best of all, extravagent emotional displays are not present excepting for a little syrup in the Andantes. Also, the performers do not try to suck every bit of syrup out of the compositions - that's great. For me, the highlight of the disc is the quartet's first movement: a beautiful piece with subtlety surrounding it all. Concerning the performers, they are excellent except for a little sour note spinning which was at a minimum. Recorded sound is as good as it gets. So, we have great works, great sound, and generally great performances. This adds up to a Must Buy recommendation for chamber music fans. Goldmark fans should rush to their real or visual store. The rest of you can do whatever you like. The catlog number is 1071. Don Satz [log in to unmask]