Elgar: Enigma Variations; Pomp & Circumstance Marches Nos. 1-5

André Previn elicits beautiful playing from the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra in his account of the Enigma Variations, and projects a darker, more subdued view of the score than does Sir Adrian Boult. This is a reading of substantial cumulative power, convincing through and through, and distinguished by the velvety sound of the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. Previn's treatment of the marches, while not exactly fiery, is genial and warm. Rhythms are nicely sprung, and the readings have a relaxed, almost playful quality about them, although they take on plenty of gravity where appropriate. The digital sound is excellent and of a wide range. --Ted Libbey