Analogue Productions  CAPC 2222 SA

Stereo Hybrid

Classical - Orchestral

Debussy: Iberia
Ravel: Alborado del Gracioso; Valses Nobles et Sentimentales

Chicago Symphony Orchestra
Fritz Reiner (conductor)


Remastered by Ryan Smith at Sterling Sound

Reviewer Anthony Kershaw calls Iberia "one of the few records that transcends engineering, and simply allows Debussy, Ravel, Reiner and his orchestra to make our souls a richer place." This RCA is a "perfect" synthesis of interpretation, playing and sound.

The recording is rich in timbre and detail, and is beautifully transparent, identifying the accurate placement of instruments and the boundaries of Orchestra Hall's stage. The soundfield is complete (depth and width) with the center boasting the Chicago Symphony Orchestra's fabulous woodwind section.

As it seems to be on many great orchestral recordings, the percussion section steals the "audiophile" show. The percussionists' playing in Iberia will amaze you with their crack ensemble and the way they accomplish quick changes in dynamics, these ranging from quiet delicacy to raw power. Conductor Fritz Reiner must have reveled in the sound of the castanets clicking merrily on his left and the different styles of tambourine technique employed by the section player on his right. From the softest stroke of a soft mallet on suspended cymbal to the superb timpani sound, Iberia is all that recorded percussion should be.