There is a lot that goes right on this 2024 release by the and conductor . One draw is a thorough review of the score of 's , on 's part, resulting in many small changes from previous performances. Despite the obvious pairing with -- borrows his cyclical structure from , and the two works are awash in common influences, including -- this work is not often performed. To that end, the album will be essential for lovers and desirable for fans of 19th century French orchestral music generally. Moreover, keeps good control over his orchestra in complex, rather difficult scores. The first movement of the in his hands has a clean logic even as it is introducing the wealth of thematic material that makes up the symphony. Although the label is not normally where one turns for audiophile recording quality, producer and his team, working in a studio at the Haus des Rundfunks in Berlin, hit the ball out of the park with great transparency (listen for the harp) and a burnished string sound. What is not to like? Both works offer measured finales, but some listeners will want more Wagnerian heft. Outlooks may differ on this, and enough seem to have liked 's approach to put the album on classical best-seller lists in early 2024. Sample generously and decide. ~ James Manheim