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The First Quartet had previously found its way onto a BBC Music Magazine freebie but for the ridiculous price that these Quicksilva CDs retail at it is surely good to have the more mercurial and substantially beautiful second Quartet into the bargain. I would like to see more of the Schubert Ensemble of London on CD. Their playing is an utter joy especially in the expansive first movement marked Allegro molto moderato of the 1st Quartet. Simon Blendis' violin is charming and lightweight whilst the frivolous piano playing of William Howard adds a genuine spice to the proceedings. If the 1st quartet is slightly Mozartian and Haydnesque in feel then the 2nd is definitely reaching out into larger pastures. Here the maturity and discursive élan of Faure's music is distilled with almost whimsical beauty. One can imagine the thought that went into such nobly impassioned music. The Adagio is a particularly elevated piece where the intense lyricism is thoroughly inspirational in mood and content. ASV's recording is clear and Duncan Reid's lengthy notes put this disc at the top of the pile for bargain hunters and the seasoned collector with quality uncompromised. Indeed these versions are set to become standard for many years to come.

Reviewer

Gerald Fenech

Performance:

Sound:

Reviewer

Gerald Fenech

Performance:

Sound:

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