This new recording displays, again, the sumptuous sound of the orchestra, and Chailly's somewhat analytical, but passionate, way with the composer. A friend described Chailly's recent Mahler Eighth as closer to chamber music, and I suspect the same comment might apply here. Make no mistake: the grandeur of this most heavenly of Mahler symphonies is there, and the choral ending will take your breath away. But in the interim, especially the sarcastic middle movement, there is a transparency and intimacy that may be at odds with the prevailing view of what Mahler "should" sound like. For example, if you like Solti's propulsive Mahler, you probably won't enjoy Chailly's version, which is definitely more relaxed. To some degree, Chailly's slower tempi may reflect his recording venue; the sound decay in the Concertgebouw is longer than in some halls, so a more relaxed tempo pays dividends in avoiding smudging and blurring.
However, I also think Chailly wants us to hear every note in this remarkable score, and this clarity - again, something like being able to pinpoint the individual voices in a good string quartet - seems just right.
An outstanding version of this piece, although to repeat: it won't be for everyone.
