These 20th century orchestral masterworks are all about atmosphere, orchestral textures and tone colors. Karajan delivers on all counts on this recording. From the sinister sounding opening bars, the shimmering string textures, the bold brass, to the blazing ending of the Concerto, Karajan holds tight control on every aspect of this work. More recent recordings have tried to impress with the latest surround sound technology, but none convey Bartok's intent like this highly recommended interpretation.

Jean-Yves Duperron