With this third disc, the New Budapest Quartet complete their set of Op. 18 and move on to the first Razumovsky. As I said in discussing earlier issues in the series (reviewed 7/90 and 10/90), theirs are eminently well-played accounts which would grace any collection. The first movement of the A major is sweet-toned and sprightly, the tempo well judged and the exposition repeat observed. Some listeners, perhaps, might feel that the minuet could be moved on a little more (I thought it could have slightly more intensity) and I certainly found the slow movement just a little genteel. The finale, too, while lively enough could be more robust. All the same this is a satisfying account; intonation and tonal blend are good, and the leader produces a clean, sweet tone.
The New Budapest's first Razumovsky enters strongly competitive ground: I don't think it superior to the Lindsays (ASV), the Vegh (Auvidis Valois/Koch International) or the Talich (Calliope/Harmonia Mundi), but it can hold its head high in their company which is quite a compliment! True, the Lindsays and the Vegh find greater depth in the slow movement but this is not to say that there is none here: the New Budapest play with plenty of feeling and there is at times an almost Viennese sweetness and intimacy. There is plenty of vitality throughout; each phrase is beautifully articulated (some will find certain passages almost 'beautified', for example, the closing paragraphs of the slow movement and the transition into the finale) and everything the product of much thought. A beautiful and often perceptive performance which will give great musical satisfaction.'