Richard Strauss: Burleske/Romanze/Duet-Concertino/Violin Concerto
[ CD / Album ]

Ah, Richard Strauss, the man with the lush melodies and extravagant orchestrations that make us all want to put on a ball gown and twirl around a ballroom. But on this latest album featuring concertante works from Strauss, it's a bit like your eccentric great uncle decided to crash the party and bring along his quirky pals.

The performances by Little, McHale, Price, and Collins are technically proficient, but there's a certain lack of cohesion that leaves us feeling a bit like we've stumbled into an impromptu jam session at a retirement home. Little's violin playing is vibrant and emotive, McHale's piano work is elegant and precise, Price's clarinet is soulful, and Collins' bassoon adds a cheeky charm to the mix.

However, as they navigate through Strauss's complex and demanding compositions, it often feels like they're all speaking different musical languages. The transitions between sections are at times jarring, like a rollercoaster ride that suddenly stops and starts without warning. It's clear that these musicians are individually talented, but they struggle to find a unified voice.

Overall, this album is a mixed bag of musical delights and missteps. While there are moments of brilliance that showcase each musician's skill and personality, the lack of cohesion ultimately leaves us wishing for a bit more harmony. So grab your ball gown and prepare for a bumpy ride through the world of Richard Strauss with this entertaining but slightly disjointed collection.