When the Emerson String Quartet releases an album, ones expectation of excellence isn't metits exceeded. The Emerson's exploration of Czech chamber music on this new recording further burnishes a lustrous reputation. The Emerson's perform at a superior level of intensity, integrity, energy, and commitment demonstrated since it's formation in 1976. It now brings these qualities to the first two of Janaceks String Quartets and 3 Madrigals for violin and viola by Martinu 0. Intimate Letters (Quartet no. 2) is based on Janaceks letters to his muse, Kamila Stvsslova. We are the fortunate beneficiaries of Janaceks unrequited passion! This passionate piece also plays a key role in the Daniel-Day Lewis film, the Unbearable Lightness of Being.