Franz Krommer is Frantisek Kramar, one of the most gifted of the Bohemians who made a career in Vienna in the latter years of the eighteenth century. These two symphonies reflect that world, one glorified by the genius of Mozart but also dignified by the music of many lesser composers. They are fine works, carrying with them something of the Haydn of the Sturm und Drang symphonies, something of Mozart's romantic anticipations, even a touch of Beethoven's energy. The Second Symphony opens on a magnificent slow introduction that comes very close to being justified by the powerful succeeding Allegro vivace. There is a graceful Adagio and a scherzoid Minuet that includes a Viennese waltz trio of the utmost charm.
The C minor No. 4 is a rather more sombre work, more ambitious and indeed perhaps a touch too much so for its complete success. Nevertheless, these are well-made, inventive and impressive symphonies which should give a lot of pleasure. The performances take the works very seriously, making out the best case for them as works too substantial to deserve neglect because of the composer's comparatively modest reputation. The playing is excellent, the recording full and well-balanced.'