Eroica Quartet - Mendelssohn - String Quartets, Vol.2 (2002)

This disc is a perfect example of what a quartet recording, especially of standard repertoire, should do. It is fresh and invigorating and invites us to reexamine the work of a composer whom we think we know very well. In this second volume of its Mendelssohn series, the Eroica quartet simply dazzles--the ensemble's previous foray (which was its debut recording) clearly was no fluke. As far as the Eroica quartet is concerned, Mendelssohn's quartets are the equal of any of his larger-scale works, and these players show that they can generate the muscle and power to match their conception. The first movement of the third quartet is marked "Molto Allegro vivace". But in the Eroica's hands the music isn't simply lively--it's a living, breathing entity. (Forget classical music to soothe and relax you; instead, this is classical music to inflame you!)
That's not to say that this interpretation lacks gentleness or is sloppy; the light and tender second-movement menuetto is cradled like a baby, and the following movement is neatly graceful. The closing Presto is exhilarating--playful, but always controlled. Although the Quartet No. 4 in E minor is perhaps not as tersely or confidently constructed as its pairing, its melancholy mood shows off a darker facet of the Eroica's sound that is as pointed and articulate as its predecessor. Even so, the electrical charge is here too, especially in the second movement's frizzled tremolos.
Admittedly, this recording might not become everyone's benchmark interpretation--the Eroica players use period bowing and use vibrato only with great discretion--but it certainly tops my list. The sound is marvelously rich, too, and each instrument is clearly voiced. I eagerly look forward to the next recording from this exciting young quartet. -- Anastasia Tsioulcas