MAHLER: SYMPHONY NO. 8 (SYMPHONY OF A THOUSAND) - London Symphony Orchestra, Valery Gergiev (2 CDs)

Viktoria Yastrebova, Ailish Tynan, Ludmila Dudinova (sopranos), Lilli Paasikivi, Zlata Bulycheva (mezzo-sopranos), Alexey Markov (baritone), Sergey Semishkur (tenor) & Evgeny Nikitin (bass)Choir of Eltham College, Choral Arts Society of Washington, London Symphony Chorus & London Symphony Orchestra, Valery Gergiev This is a great disc, and no mistake. It is the first to which I am glad to give the “IRR Outstanding” appellation. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.’ (International Record Review). “at once the most ambitious and the most impressive in Gergiev’s Mahler series…The atmosphere of a great occasion is caught admirably, with the timpani and organ very impressive…A most competitive version.” (Penguin Guide)“the final Chorus Mysticus brings a real sense of gravitas and uplift. The massed voices are wonderfully hushed” (Gramophone) Part I1. I. Veni, Creator Spiritus 01:262. II. Imple Superna Gratia 03:553. III. Infirma Nostri Corporis 06:124. IV. Accende Lumen Sensibus 04