Certainly one of the most impressive SACD multichannel productions coming from Philips thus far, this recording of an excellent concert really does capture the sense of occasion on New Year’s in Vienna two years ago. It’s also one of the very best of all such events released for public consumption, a fact that will surprise Seiji Ozawa’s legions of detractors. Not only does Ozawa have the Vienna musicians playing at the tip of his baton, but his program overall makes for uncommonly satisfying listening at one sitting. Perhaps the most entertaining discovery is Joseph Hellmesberger II’s Danse diabolique, which may not exactly sound diabolical, but it certainly injects a touch of spice into what too easily can become an excessively sweet Sacher-torte. Best of all, Philips really does use the rear channels only for ambience, to give the music an additional fullness and dimension without making it sound as though the violins and brass are seated behind you. The result: a totally delightful disc in every respect. {4/4/2003]
