Bernstein's Mahler has always been highly regarded and these two symphonies (1 and 5) receive performances that are probably among the finest of Bernstein's set for DG. The opening funeral march of the Fifth has a gravitas that is sometimes missing in other versions. The Scherzo, too, is slowish with Bernstein observing Mahler's Nicht zu schnell marking faithfully. The other movements are more conventional in their pacing, sometimes idiosyncratic but always magnetic. The sound quality is excellent throughout. The First Symphony receives a somewhat less convincing performance, I feel, but it is still compelling and thought-provoking. Coupled with the First are the Lieder Eines Fahrenden Gesellen, which share many of the themes from the First symphony, sung by Thomas Hampson.

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