Title: Malcolm Arnold's 3d Symphony
Product review: Most of Malcolm Arnold's music was written during the Cold War. The tension of that period, which many have now forgotten, is captured in his work. It is as if "The Spy Who Came in From the Cold" had been set to music in the 3d Symphony. This work first appeared on LP on the Everest label with Arnold conducting. Other versions of the work suffer from pace -- too fast. There is no better version available than the composer's own. Listeners unfamiliar with Arnold know him nevertheless: in the 1940s and 50s he frequently scored movies, among them "Breaking the Sound Barrier," "Bridge on the River Kwai," "Tunes of Glory," and "The Key." The superb brass work in his music reflects his own background: first trumpet for some of England's leading orchestras. His guitar concerto is an overlooked masterpiece. But anyone who wants to explore this remarkably versatile composer should begin with the 3d symphony conducted by the composer.
Would you say this review depicts the product in a flattering or unflattering light?
