Debussy: La Mer

Chronique

With BIS' state-of-the-art recording technology and the lucid performances of Lan Shui and the Singapore Symphony Orchestra, this hybrid SACD of Claude Debussy's orchestral works is an exceptional compilation in every way. While the program of Images pour orchestre, Prélude à l'après-midi d'un faun, and La Mer is a rather standard presentation of impressionist masterpieces, there is nothing ordinary about the meticulous playing or the evocative sonorities that are found in all three recordings. Shui's conducting seems careful and precise, but he draws out fully expressive and vibrant playing from his musicians, so the performances are extremely clean while exuding lushness and passion. The dynamic range is wide, so the soft levels at the opening of Images may not prepare listeners for the loudest climaxes later on, so some adjustment of the volume may be necessary. Even so, this is a wonderful orchestral showcase that impresses with its scintillating tone colors and vital rhythms, and in these critically acclaimed performances, the Singapore Symphony Orchestra demonstrates that it is fast approaching world-class status.

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