Bruch: Concerto No. 2; Scottish Fantasy CD

 Another superb CD
With this relatively recent May 2002 recording, James Ehnes demonstrates that not only can he continue to churn out 5 star CDs, but that he is continuing to improve over time. James Ehnes is one of my favourite violinists and this CD does not disappoint at all. Whilst Mr. Ehnes's tone is as crystal clear, silvery and pentrating as ever, he is now introducing more subtlety in his playing. The slow movements in this CD are beautifully played and Mr. Ehnes's pianissimo playing is now just as clear as when he playing flat out. I principally bought the CD for the Scottish Fantasy, and I have to admit I had not heard the Bruch second concerto before. After listening to it a few times now, I'm still not convinced the piece has supreme artistic merit. Whilst the Bruch second certainly carries the Bruch trademark, it also strikes me as somewhat Schumannesq in nature, but at other times almost looking like it could undergo a metamorphosis into a long lost Viotti concerto. Nevertheless, given Mr. Ehnes's wonderful musicianship, the piece grows on me every time I play the CD. The Alain Chenier engineered recording is excellent, with a very realistic balance struck between the soloist and orchestra. No overpowering close miking here.
Submitted by jspa6m5 (New South Wales, Australia)
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