Netherlands Radio Philharmonic Orchestra, Jaap Van Zweden - Bruckner: Symphony 8 C-moll (2012) [SACD]

On this 2012 SACD from Challenge, Jaap van Zweden performs Anton Bruckner’s Symphony 8 in C minor in the widely recorded 1890 version, edited by Leopold Nowak. Because it has become fashionable for conductors to perform the earliest versions of Bruckner’s symphonies, in a debatable effort to find “authentic” Bruckner, van Zweden’s choice of this late revision might suggest he’s bucking the trend, if not merely demonstrating his personal preference. In any case, van Zweden displays thorough knowledge of the symphony & absolute mastery of its pacing & structure, & his reading with the Netherlands Radio Philharmonic Orchestra reveals the work’s coherence & organic wholeness, as well as the fabulous skills of the musicians. The brass especially outdo themselves in the fullness of their blended sound & the warmth of their tone. Beyond the excellence of the interpretation & incandescence of the playing, this is 1 of the finest sounding SACD presentations available. The depth of the surround sound is extraordinary, & the vibrant presence of the orchestra puts the listener right in the front row. If the measure of a Bruckner performance can be taken from all these factors, this is an outstanding presentation & an indispensable recording that serious Brucknerians should own or at least hear several times.