Rattle/BPO M6th CD+BR (2018)

[John Kim]

Simon Rattle left Berlin with a BANG. Derived from his last concerts in Berlin this is a fabulous Mahler Sixth by all accounts, particularly in the epic Finale where Rattle builds up the music to the highest level of frenzy, drama, and power. And for their departing conductor the Berliners rose to the occasion with everything they got. Rattle frequently opts for huge contrasts in tempo and dynamics (in Scherzo and Finale mostly) adding enormously to the drama and epic, and it never sounds disruptive or fragmented.

Above all, you'll be amazed to hear BPO in such a top form from the very first bar until the the last; it's one hell of an ensemble that will stay in your head for a long time to come.

John

[barryguerrero]

This was issued by the Berlin Phil. itself, correct?

[John Kim]

Yes, but it was also available for download. That's what I got.

John

[barryguerrero]

I have a 'pirate' of Rattle doing M6 with the B.P.O. and V.P.O. combined. It was a birthday event for him. I rather like it.

[erikwilson7]

Overall I think Rattle’s Mahler has very much improved over time. By now he’s akin to a slightly better Abbado: middle of the road, not much “nonsense,” and quite technical. Though of course Rattle always adds his little quirks every time.

With his latest M6 (BPO) it’s mostly spot on though, like John said.

[barryguerrero]

Your assessment of Rattle's Mahler is spot on to me. I couldn't have said it before.