Rostropovich captures the stark ambivalence of the music - its gut-wrenching menace on the one hand, and stark attractiveness on the other. The playing is top-notch, and quite terrifying at all the right moments." *****
The Scotsman - 28 January 2005
’his strength is in his ability to inspire players. There’s nothing routine about this performance: Rostropovich generates a fierce intensity The LSO’s response is consitantly impressive.’
Classic FM Magazine, March 2005
Classic FM Magazine - March 2005
In this towering performance by the LSO under the composer’s friend and colleague Mstislav Rostropovich Shostakovich comes across as a thoroughgoing modernist, agonised about the issues of the day, but pouring his angst into a huge, multifaceted work which flows with the heat of volcanic lava. One of the last remaining links with this titanic composer, the great cellist-conductor can lay rightful claim to being his outstanding living interpreter."
The Observer, 9 January 2005
The Observer - 9 January 2005
This is the sort of thing at which Rostropovich excels; the frozen wastes, the seas of desolation that cover this carefully proportioned symphony have never been more atmospherically charted."
BBC Music Magazine - March 2005
Rostropovich breathes this music as if it were oxygen he brings it chillingly to life"
BBC 3 CD Radio Review