Reiner/CSO: Brahms Symphony No. 3 - RCA SB-2007 (UK red/silver - ED1)

$

25

ITEM DESCRIPTION:

This handsome and rare LP from British RCA (SB-2007, equivalent to US LSC-2209, English Decca pressing, red / silver spot label – ED1, stereo, original inner sleeve included) features Fritz Reiner and the mighty Chicago Symphony Orchestra’s magnificent account of Brahms’s Symphony No. 3 in F Major Op. 90, recorded in the opulent acoustics of Orchestra Hall, Chicago on 14 December 1957.

 

In reviewing the RCA Victrola re-issue (VICS-1117) of this performance, the eminent critic Robert Layton wrote in his review for the June 1971 issue of The Gramophone: “Reiner directs a marvellously glowing account of the Brahms symphony with magnificent orchestral playing from the Chicago orchestra. I particularly enjoyed the slow movement which has the same naturalness and warmth that distinguished his recently reissued Pastoral and even though his tempo is leisurely there is not a trace of self-indulgence. Much the same can be said of the third movement which is unaffected, always beautifully phrased and with a firm grip on the shape of the movement as a whole. The outer movements have plenty of power and drive yet there are numerous sensitive touches that give pleasure. The recording has excellent perspective and balance (it is mercifully free from aural close-ups), a warm acoustic and tone. There is some woolliness on climaxes and a certain pallor by the side of present-day recordings but this should not deter readers from investing in it. In my view this is not only the finest cheap-label account on the market but among the finest at any price. Even if I had bought either the Haitink or the Boult versions, both coupled with the Tragic Overture incidental/y, I would still want this account.”

 

Incidentally, there are superb liner notes (in English only) on the reverse side of the jacket by Irving Kolodin. Also on the reverse side is stated that date of publication in England: 8/58.

 

CONDITION:

The gradations of condition I use are as follows: MINT, Near-Mint, Excellent, Very Good, Good, Fair, Poor.

 

The condition of the jacket is GOOD. There is a fair amount of edgewear, particularly at corners and along the open edge of the jacket, as well as slight curling along the open edge, and ringwear/discoloration to the rear panel. However, there are no seamsplits, owners' markings, or other defects, and the album remains solid, bright, glossy, and presentation worthy – overall, still a decent copy.

 

The condition of the LP itself is EXCELLENT. Although the surfaces are not absolutely silent, really this is a fine copy and the playback is quite superb. Those requiring CD silent surfaces are kindly advised to look elsewhere. Overall, this rates as an excellent collector's copy.

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REFUNDS:
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