Eiji Oue embarks upon Richard Strauss’ heroic journey from a lofty, lyrical vantage point, similar to Karajan’s three recorded Heldenlebens, but with clearer orchestral balances and more vivid sonics. As the hero’s companion and adversaries appear on the scene, Oue assertively tightens the rhythmic reins, yet allows the increasingly complex scoring to emerge with chamber-like cogency. Admirable too are soloist Jorja Fleezanis’ tart and silvery timbre, and brass playing that just won’t quit. Erich Leinsdorf’s excellent arrangement of interludes from the sumptuous Die Frau Ohne Schatten provides a gorgeous filler. Listening to it directly after Heldenleben, though, is akin to devouring a banana split when you’ve barely digested your steak dinner. Joyfully recommended!
