Norrköping Symphony Orchestra, Michail Jurowski - Rangström: Symphony No. 2 (1996) CD-Rip

The notes to this recording suggest that Ture Rangstrom's 2nd symphony, subtitled "My Land", is his least-played symphony because it speaks in a nationalistic language that is an anathema to Swedes. If true, it's too bad because this is a wonderful piece, full of northern, though not distinctly Swedish, atmosphere.
Unlike the 1st symphony, which is written in a tense style full of Wagnerian chromaticism, the 2nd symphony limits itself to more diatonic harmony which makes it easier listening. Like his previous effort, Rangstrom builds his movements out of short themes (& chordal sequences), but his melodic inspiration is on a higher level here. That combined with his distinct ability to create atmosphere results in a memorable piece that really ought to occasionally replace Sibelius' first two symphonies in concert.
The filler is an undrammatic, but very colorful, suite entitled "Intermezzo drammatico." Again Rangstrom proves to be an excellent colorist, offering a nielsen-influenced Danza, a notturno redolent of the northern woods and a March which lurches along rather than striding forth. This piece would make a nice addition to a Pops concert.
If you're interested in Rangstrom, this disc makes a better starting place than the 1st symphony also recorded by these forces for CPO. The conductor seems a bit more comfortable with the language of the symphony and lets it's bardic qualities shine forth. The orchestra plays well and the sound is fine. If you like northern romanticism, give this disc a try.