The Arts Desk on our new Brahms: The String Quintets and Sextets recording:
“The Alexander Quartet never disappoint on disc, and they’re spectacularly good here. Listening to them ease into the the waltzing second subject of the Bb Sextet’s opening movement, or hearing guest violist Toby Appel sing out the Andante’s variation theme is a bit like slipping one’s toes into a warm bath. Everything’s marvellous – the intonation flawless, the tempi judged to perfection. Wallow in the good natured finale, and enjoy the glorious swelling in the coda, as if we’re suddenly listening to a chamber orchestra. … There’s even greater fluency in the two mature String Quintets… A zesty Vivace closes proceedings in uplifting style, the music’s generosity of spirit never called into question. A life-enhancing set, nicely-recorded and well annotated.” —Graham Rickson, The Arts Desk
Read the full review on TheArtsDesk.com!