The Lindsay's lauadable Beethoven Quartet cycle continues unabated with this very fine issue coupling two great works from the later period.
Obviously, there is much competition in this area and such illustrious names as the Amadeus, the Griller's, the Hollywood and Alban Berg quartets will not fade easily out of mind, especially in the sublime 'Larghetto espressivo' from the 'Serioso'. Still, the Lindsays are on top form and also demonstrate their exquisite penchant for treating the music with panache and nobility.
The E flat quartet is an altogether harder nut to crack but here the Lindsay's are also in ebullient mood. The magisterial Adagio is handled with superb efficacy and zest whilst the final Allegro commodo is another dashing piece, full of beauty and holistic expression. However, I still will not part with the Hollywood Quartet's incredible account on Bridge that really takes some beating.
Collectors who have already invested in this series should obviously snap up but others may wish to sample legendary greats before adding the otherwise excellent Lindsays to their collections
Copyright © 2003, Gerald Fenech