Reviewed by John Irvine

Gorecki's Third Symphony is in definite danger of overkill - this is the third version I've reviewed for Cross Rhythms in as many issues. This is, however, the first "budget priced" issue - ie, it'll cost you only £6 on CD. For value for money, this recording cannot be beaten. But money isn't everything. For example both the piano and the soloist are too far back in the mix for my liking and while the technical ability of both the soprano soloist and the orchestra are excellent, the performance is not a gripping one. I suspect they were all on valium when they made this record. Perhaps a little too laid back. This issue can only compete with Dawn Upshaw's recording (reviewed in CR15) in terms of price, which for those who only want "the music" may be a very valid consideration.

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