Leipziger Streichquartett, Hartmut Rohde - Brahms: String Quintets, Op. 88 & 111 (2004)

The Leipziger Streichquartett's 2004 recording of Brahms' gloriously autumnal string quintets in G major and F major is in every way as fine and as rich and as deep a chamber music recording as has ever been made. The Leipziger Streichquartett has consistently delivered performances of terrific power and tremendous insight and this Brahms disc may be the best yet. The warmth of tone, the intimacy of feeling, the strength of technique, and the ability to project the brilliant blues and blazing auburns of Brahms quintets is chamber music playing at its best. The recorded sound produced by Musikproduktion Dabringhaus und Grimm is equally splendid. The clarity, the intensity, the immediacy, and the roundness of the sound is unbelievable and the sense of presence is uncanny. Anyone who loves great music with a clear mind and a full heart will love this disc.