Not musical really, sort of music for stage but what a recording & transfer...definitely will show your systems strengths & weakness

The immediacy of the recording wonderfully complements the vigor and precision of the ensemble work.

Whilst still a student, I played the composer's own arrangement for piano trio (piano, clarinet and violin) of the Soldier's Tale, so have long enjoyed a love-affair with this music. I recently read an interview about Bob Witrak on the internet, with the interviewer more than once referring to this recording in the most exceptional terms. Needless to say, my interest was piqued, especially as I already had a couple of download versions I didn't like that much. The interviewer was totally correct in his consternation of this recording/remastering! The sound-stage is truly quite astonishing, while the clarity and proportional distancing of the various instruments is such that you feel you could almost reach out and touch them, akin to a live concert setting. Believe me, a GENUINE must for your library!!

If you're looking for one version, this is the one. This version digs deeper and better tells the story than other performances which go for polish alone. It's also the most visceral, even moreso than the fabled John Carewe/LSO Chamber Group on Everest.

I have been a big fan of this music since my college days in the 70's. I have not found many versions of it and some of them seemed dry and lifeless, so I wasn't overly impressed when I received a copy of this edition from a good friend of mine. Not expecting much, I put it on and sat down to do some reading and was transfixed. The hair stood up on the back of my neck as I put the disc on repeat and listened 4 or 5 times in a row. Though much rougher, harsher than Schwarz/LA and Silverstein/Boston the immediacy and clarity of the sound keeps it perfectly in keeping with the folk qualities of the musical narrative. The execution of the score may not be perfect but the recording is so vivid there is little distance, real and/or emotionally between the listener and performers. Great recording!