A CD made in France by a French company of, admittedly charming Russian tunes, but recorded in Moscow way back in 1966 and therefore obviously analogue; why did they bother one might ask, and this one did—until he played it, for it proves to be one enjoyable surprise after another. For a start, the enthusiasm and sheer verve of all the performers shines through and is quite compelling; the recording, although flawed and open to sniping (e.g. hum on the left channel during Asia), is full blooded, artistically accomplished and extremely persuasive. Note particularly the entry and presence of the chorus in the Polovtsian Dances; superbly contrived, clear as a bell and a credit to the engineer whoever he or she was, and just listen to those free-ranging soprano voices soaring clear of the rest. I could go on, I resist with difficulty. Buy it.'