My one complaint is that the sound varies from crisp and detailed to saturated and muddy. The orchestra is often a bit too recessed, and at other times the chorus' words and sectional distinctions are unclear because the orchestra is overpowering. One example: the opening of the Sanctus, where the brass and winds' annunciation is merely present, not arresting, and the chorus could be singing literally anything, in any language. Given the logistics--large orchestra, double choir, four soloists, organ--it's not so surprising that clarity and balance would present some problems, and overall this is a very respectable performance that would stand proud in any CD collection.

There's also a bonus, although it's a bit odd from a programming standpoint. For some reason McCreesh chose to fill out the disc with two works that have absolutely nothing to do with Mozart's Mass--or with Mozart, or with sacred music at all. Rather, we are treated to two "dramatic cantatas", one from Haydn, the other from Beethoven. And although it's hard to figure the rationale for including these with Mozart's grand sacred work, once you hear the performances--the Haydn by Connolly, the Beethoven by Tilling, you probably won't care. They are wonderful--and another chance to hear these two brilliant singers show their stuff is a treat whenever and wherever you find it. [6/30/2006]