Not the most obvious orchestra for a spectacular version of Ma Vlast, but under Claus Peter Flor the Malaysian Philharmonic play as well as any of the more established world class orchestras. In fact though lacking sometimes in polish I have never enjoyed better playing in any other recording, even the Czech Phlharmonic seems on the tame side!
There are six individual movements in this wonderfully melodic cycle which are often performed as individual works in concert. The most famous is Vltava, in recordings frequently used a filler to Dvorak symphonies.
For those new to this work, it ranges from depictions of the Czech countryside in From Bohemian Fields and Groves, Vltava, the course of this river, some wonderful moments of events and places on it's course. Sarka is about the rebellion of women against male domination! These are all very well described in the booklet.
If the music of Dvorak appeals then this will do likewise. Flor's vision of these works in inspirational, tempo and orchestral colour are perfectly judged. The hunting horns and farmers wedding in Vltava have never sounded better. When the dance music is played (mainly tracks 2, 3 and 4) it has a wonderful spring in its step. The last two poems in the Cycle are powerful works, the last one Blanik ending the cycle on a victorious note.
The recordings by BIS are demonstraion class.
