Deeply sensitive and translucent, pointing up the richness of the colour, harmony and melody.

Slatkin’s impressive RVW series continues with splendid performances of these symphonies. Vaughan Williams’s experiences of the Great War influenced the Pastoral Symphony (1921), for it is commemorative of the fallen, and deeply mystical as well as being quietly contemplative of the landscape and evening skies. Slatkin’s reading is deeply sensitive and translucent, pointing up the richness of the colour, harmony and melody. In contrast, the anger, violence and discord of the Fourth Symphony (1934), with its rhythmical elasticity and brilliant orchestration, were thought by many to be a warning against fascism. This is a strong and biting account emphasising the sardonic humour of the work, aided by a warm, clear, spacious recording.

Performance: 5 (out of 5), Sound: 5 (out of 5)

-- Ian Lace, BBC Music Magazine