London Symphony Orchestra & Mstislav Rostropovich - Shostakovich: Symphony No. 8 (2005/2018) [Hi-Res]

Although it was written at a time of great optimism in the Soviet Union with the Nazis in retreat, Shostakovich's Eighth Symphony is imbued with a deep sense of sorrow and fear of the future. Whereas the authorities expected a victorious anthem, Shostakovich appeared too affected by the bloody cost of the war. Mstislav Rostropovich again proved that no other conductor is able to so intimately understand the feelings of his dear friend.

"[Rostropovich] must have been amazed and moved by the playing of the LSO. You can only sit and wonder whether, in terms of pity and terror, musical expression could possibly go further." (BBC Music Magazine)

"All the searing intensity, perceptiveness and magnificent playing that made this such a memorable performance survives on this recording. No one has a more intimate knowledge of Shostakovich's musical psyche that his long-time friend Rostropovich and that insight exudes from every pore of his interpretation ... this must surely be the benchmark for this shattering work." (The Daily Telegraph, UK)

"A performance that grips at every moment, with orchestral playing to match." (Classic FM Magazine)

London Symphony Orchestra
Mstislav Rostropovich, conductor