Even at this early stage in his career (he was in his late 20s to early 30s, don't forget), Haydn's music was about 10 times...

Even at this early stage in his career (he was in his late 20s to early 30s, don't forget), Haydn's music was about 10 times more inventive than any of the competition. All four of these symphonies have many delightful moments, from the syncopated rhythms in the finale of No. 14, to the lovely and affecting use of counterpoint that opens No. 16 (a personal favorite), to the gorgeous slow introduction of No. 15 for horns with pizzicato strings. Kevin Mallon and the Toronto Camerata clearly understand and enjoy the idiom, offering stylish and elegant renditions that make this one of the best releases in Naxos' enterprising but variable complete symphony edition. The horn players are excellent, textures are transparent, and Mallon knows how to judge tempos to provide maximum contrast (especially in the minuets) and vitality. The continuo is well balanced and discretely played, as it should be, so as not to create artificial rhythms that fight against Haydn's energetic bass lines. In short, these are first-rate modern-instrument versions of works that you should waste no time in getting to know. Very good sound too. [5/16/2006]--David Hurwitz, ClassicsToday.com