Search - Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov, Pyotr Il'yich Tchaikovsky, Arthur Fiedler :: Arthur Fiedler & the Boston Pops

An exhilarating performance with spectacular sonic imagery.

Steve Griffing (steveng7@flash.net) | Dallas, Texas | 09/07/1999

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Buried within the vast Laser Light catalog are gems of obscure origin. While the Boston Pops Orchestra is far from obscure, the genesis of this particular recording certainly is, and it definitely qualifies as a gem. Here, these two popular orchestral showpieces are rendered with exhilarating virtuosity by one of the great orchestras of our generation. (The Pops is essentially the Boston Symphony in the Fiedler recordings.) While this group responds to Fiedlers unerring sense of drama with rare deftness and artistry, the recording environment is integral to the overall effect.Originally, this recording was produced for Chrystal Clear Records, a San Francisco company that specialized in audiophile (mostly direct to disc) records in the late 1970's. According to the original LP cover it was made directly to an Ortophon cutting lathe using "transformerless" electronics in 1977. Thus, to own this CD is not just to enjoy an exciting performance by a great American symphony, but also to possess a true audio rarity - a CD which descended not from an analog or digital tape master but from an original lacquer disc master. Those who are fortunate enough to have heard audiophile direct to disc recordings can tell you that their quality rivals that of well-made CD's, and that many capture a warmth and richness that is lost in the more modern medium. What makes this CD really worth owning, however, is how successful this joining of old and new technology is.The extremely low noise and wide dynamic range are typical of a much more recent production, yet the stereo imaging and ambience are what makes this such a remarkable production. The "visual" perspective and acoustic resonnance are exceptional. Of particular note is the stunningly realistic "location" of the various soloists in the Capriccio Espagnol. As a professional violinist, I can honestly say that it is the most realistic electronic reproduction of a symphony orchestra that I have ever heard. Some may prefer a "dryer", more highlighted sound, but for those who prefer a natural concert hall perspective where the soloists don't perform in your lap this is a top choice.Not credited on the CD are the original producer, Ed Wodenjak, and the Mastering Engineers, George Piros (whose initials are engraved on the master), Richard Simpson, and the legendary Stan Ricker. Too bad.These sessions were held on October 31 and November 1 over twenty years ago. Whether it was the spell of Halloween, or the rapture of All Saints Day that charmed this special collaboration is anyone's guess. But we benefit miraculously from the legacy of Fiedler, this Boston ensemble, and the craftsmen of Chrystal Clear for less that six bucks. To think; I paid twenty in '78 for the LP."

Like finding a antique for a bargain price...

vmzfla | Orlando, Fl. | 02/07/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I agree with the previous 1999 reviewer that this disc is a gem!

What a mix: You have great music,a legend conducting a world class orchestra and engineering employing direct to disc technology. The transfer to CD is awesome without a trace of distortion and a wide dynamic range. The natural presence and soloist placement is that of a actual concert. By adjusting the trebel/bass and balance controls on your amp, you can have the results of either a subdued to a blockbuster performance.

This is up to the standards of anything being offered today.

The liner notes do not explain this thoroughly enough. I also owned the original Chrystal Clear record, and paid almost $20 bucks for it back in 78. I don't think the 2002 reviewer realizes what he bought. I paid $3.98 and its' on my all time favorite list!"