Here is another example of Evgeni Svetlanov in extrovert vein. Gone is the Klemperer-like preoccupation with textural clarity at inordinately slow tempos for this is a generally high-spirited, live-sounding reading. Its appearance on a single disc sharpens its competitive edge, but in this of all works it is false economy to ignore the claims of established front runners such as Bernstein and Karajan (DG, 4/85 – nla). At times in Svetlanov’s interpretation one could almost be listening to some large-scale (and none-too-carefully-rehearsed) Russian ballet. Already, with the stately but polite opening of the first movement, doubts begin to creep in. Committed though they are, these musicians fail to attain the richness of Karajan’s Berliners and one misses the aggressive bite of the lower strings obtained by Bernstein in Vienna. In fact the Russian performance is often most effective in quieter moments, whether during the third movement or the trio of the second where Svetlanov achieves a notably evocative effect. In more densely scored passages, the close-miked Russian brass threaten to overwhelm everything else and you may find the persistent vibrato of the first trumpet distressing. The finale takes a long time to get going – its early stages need more grip, its later stages less hysteria.
The recording does not flatter; it is shrill in the treble and lacks the sonic sophistication achieved by the DG team for Pierre Boulez in what I would count his most successful Mahler performance on disc. On CdM Russian Season, the celeste is afforded too much prominence; sample if you will the first movement from 17'18'' where the return of the ‘Alma’ theme is anticipated by the cavorting of the Sugar Plum Fairy. In view of these shortcomings one is tempted to describe the performance as second-rate, but it is often apparent that Svetlanov and his compatriots share a real enjoyment (if not perhaps a total understanding) of this music. It was recorded seven years ago and makes a unique addition to the ever-expanding Mahler discography.'