ORFF:  Carmina Burana
Hei-Kyung Hong, sop; Stanford Olsen, tenor; Earle Patriarco, bar; Atlanta Symphony Orchestra & Chorus/Donald Runnicles, cond.
TELARC SACD 60575 TT:  59:42
(5.1 channel)

Telarc has two SACD issues of the Atlanta Symphony playing Orff's popular cantata, but this is the only one in multi-channel. As a performance, I prefer the earlier version with the late Robert Shaw. This new recording has the benefit of extra channels, there's plenty of impact in percussion, but a lack of warmth/resonance.

Shaw also had superior soloists, and his recording has been issued on stereo SACD sounding better than ever.

 

DEBUSSY:  Ibéria.  TURINA:  Danzas Fantásticas, Op. 22.  Sinfonia Sevillana, Op. 23.  La Procesión del Rocio, Op. 9
Cincinnati Symphony Orch/Jesus López-Cobos, cond.
TELARC SACD 60574  TT:  64:24
(5.1 channel)

These richly-textured scores benefit from multi-channel sound. The orchestra is in front with ambient sound from the sides. However, these performances miss much of the magic in this music; the Cincinnati Symphony doesn't have the lush strings essential for this music."Fragrances of the Night" from Ibéria is decidedly unscentful. Just listen to Reiner's RCA recording for the real thing. As usual with Telarc, percussion throughout is conveyed admirably and perhaps this will be enough for some listeners.

R.E.B. (NEXT SURROUND REVIEW)