Two additional points need emphasizing. The basic sonority of the ensemble is big, round, and warm, with not a trace of stridency in the upper brass. The woodwind choirs are impeccably tuned, and the total result is much more "symphonic" and less "marching band-like" than you might expect. In short, the playing never turns harsh or fatiguing, even if you want to take in the entire disc at a sitting. Second, the transcriptions, where applicable, are very well-made. The Polka and Fugue for once doesn't sound silly, and the extract from Aida (made by one of Verdi's Italian contemporaries) is a sort of fantasia on the themes of the entire Triumphal Scene, going beyond just the march itself. Indeed, the "Glory to Egypt" hymn doesn't even appear until a couple of minutes in, and the result is extremely attractive and surprisingly lyrical.

Glorious, naturally impactful sonics complete the picture. This is a marvelous disc in every respect, and we can only hope that it marks the beginning of a series featuring this ensemble. They made a few discs for Musical Heritage Society that were equally stunning (including one of the best-ever recordings of The Pines of Rome), and to have them on hand for a more systematic survey of the band repertoire, both original and in transcription, would be a wonderful boon to collectors and fans of great band playing.

--David Hurwitz, ClassicsToday.com