Best of...2008

[Leo K]

There have been many good releases this year, Gergiev's ongoing cycle to name a few...I really enjoyed his M6 and M3 (one of the best M3's out there).  Also, an honorable mention goes to Zinman's M4...very very fine indeed.

But for my taste, the Rattle/BPO/EMI M9 is the best of 2008 by a country mile.  Further listening recently has confirmed this.

What is your best of 2008?  Or favorite?


--Todd

[barry guerrero]

Other than the soprano, who's not terrible (just not great), the Zinman M4 is terrific. But since there's no singer involved, my favorite for 2008 is the Zinman Mahler 6.

Barry

[John Kim]

I'd have seconded the Rattle/BPO/EMI M9th had they issued it (alongside the CD) in DVD-R format with improved sound.

Other than that, I don't have particular affinity for any of the new Mahler releases, but will mention that I rather liked Zinman's M2nd and M3rd.

The Gergiev/LSO/LSO M3rd is another highlight of 2008 I'd like to point out.

To me, this was a year that led me to revisit Shostakovich through some excellent recordings; Wigglesworth/NRPO/BIS 8th & 13th, Haitink/CSO/CSO 4th, and finally Schwarz/SSO/Artek 8th. The power of Shosy's music never diminishes next to Mahler's. That's what I realized.

John,

[sbugala]

For me, it's Vonk's Mahler 4th. 

[john haueisen]

I like the DVD release of Abbado's M3.
Yes, I'm always a sucker for a pretty girl, especially one who sings well and with passion.
In this case it was Anna Larsson.  Some may remember our discussions of her alleged false or "early entry" in this work.
Actually, remember to take my comment with a grain of salt, as M3 is my single favorite piece of music, so I was obviously bound to love this DVD.
--John H

[barry guerrero]

Yeah, I really should add that Abbado M3 dvd to my "best of" list. I prefer Gergiev in the last three movements, but the sound and orchestral execution are a bit better on the Abbado.

Barry