More than serviceable but less than inspired,
Les Chambristes du Canada's recordings of Schubert's "Trout" Quintet and Adagio and Rondo Concertante are enjoyable, but not especially memorable performances. The group plays with more than capable technique, a more than proficient ensemble, and a more than adequate sense of style. The lines sing, the harmonies balance, the rhythms dance, and the colors suit the music. While it is happening, the group's playing is entertaining enough, but, after the disc ends, one struggles to recall anything that happened. Where the great old recordings of the "Trout" --
George Szell's with the
Budapest Quartet and
Emil Gilels' with the
Amadeus Quartet's recordings come immediately to mind -- leave the listener cheerful and smiling,
Les Chambristes du Canada's recording leaves the listener vaguely distracted, mildly dissatisfied, and dimly wishing they had chosen another recording. ATMA Classiques' sound is warm and clear, but the piano seems placed a dozen feet behind the strings.