This set of recordings of Tchaikovsky's last three symphonies by Valery Gergiev leading the Vienna Philharmonic contains performances that are undeniably fire-breathing, undoubtedly heaven-storming, and inarguably heart-on-sleeve. Gergiev, one of the most exciting Russian conductors, leads the works with a combination of reckless passion, imperious command, and unbearable drama that is his hallmark, and the Vienna Philharmonic, one of the finest Austrian orchestras, plays the works with a combination of superb polish, impeccable technique, and warm colors that are its trademark and the fusion is absolutely riveting. If some listeners might be put off by Gergiev's blithe disregard of tempo -- he often accelerates in climaxes and decelerates in codas -- or his unfailing habit of favoring brass over strings -- his motto themes in the Fourth and Fifth symphonies are all power and no nuance -- or his inevitable tendency to emphasize the suffering over lyricism -- he seems in an unconscionable hurry to get through middle movements to get to finales -- other listeners will be thrilled by the energy and enthusiasm he brings to the works. Some older listeners may still prefer the aging Mravinsky recordings with the Leningrad Symphony -- recordings of immense power, enormous strength, and incredible drama -- while younger listeners will be delighted with the monumental sound Philips' gives Gergiev and the Vienna.
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