Search - Ravel, Monteux, Lso :: Daphnis & Chloe / Rhapsodie Espagnole / Pavane

This is simply the sexiest performance of Ravel's ballet masterpiece ever recorded. Pierre Monteux conducted the premiere in 1913 and then waited another 45 years before recording his final thoughts for posterity in excellent stereo sound. The whole performance is simply magical. Where his principal competition--Charles Munch and the Boston Symphony on RCA--offer brilliance and physical drive, Monteux seduces the ear with his utterly natural phrasing and a really danceable rhythmic lift. Anyone who loves this music will want to have both versions. They complement each other so well, and since both are at midprice, you can afford to splurge. --David Hurwitz