Fischer-Dieskau's memorable Mahler

Fischer-Dieskau, one of last centuries great voices, brings his trademark poise and power to Mahler's Songs

Composer: Mahler
Repertoire:  Songs
Artists: Fischer-Dieskau, Barenboim
Rating:  4/5 
Genre: Vocal/Instrumental
Label: EMI Classics 476 7802

Even Barenboim’s pianistic skill can’t disguise that these songs work best with their orchestral accompaniments. For all that, it’s a fine display of one of the last century’s great singers at the peak of his powers. Besides the legendary focus, poise and handsome sound of his voice, Fischer-Dieskau’s way of placing and shading words is something special. And alongside the great Des Knaben Wunderhorn and Rückert settings, Mahler’s little-known early songs hold their own impressively.