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Johannes BRAHMS
(1833-1897)
21 Hungarian Dances (arr. Joachim).
Yuval Waldman (violin); Eugenie Russo (piano).
Campion RRCD1347 [DDD] [58'48]
Campion

This is a most disappointing issue. Joachim made these arrangements for violin and piano shortly after their composition. It should really be a joy to listen to an hour of Brahms letting his hair down. Waldman and Russo in equal measure ensure that this is not the case. From the very first track the attempt at gypsy abandon fails, and neither does it ignite for the rest of the record.

The violin is placed uncomfortably close, far too far forward for comfort. Also, the piano sounds like an uncomfortable cross between a practice piano and a fortepiano.

It is almost impossible to single out single movements, because they all suffer from the same faults. A near total lack of wit or swagger on both performers parts (Russo is content just to plonk away happily) coupled with abrasive violin tone and slipshod tuning make this a disc to be avoided at all costs. The disc ends in the most off-putting of ways. Waldman simply cannot manage the last dance technically, and is screechy in the extreme.

Avoid.

Reviewer

Colin Clarke

Performance

Recording



Reviewer

Colin Clarke

Performance

Recording


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