From the somewhat cautious yet expansive initial bars of the Adagio grows a performance of passion and dramatic momentum. The unity of purpose and ensemble in the opening movement is especially striking, as is the rich warmth given to the second subject material. The Presto second movement is played with skill and precision and the contrasting moods of the ensuing Andante are explored with the utmost conviction. These performers adopt a more light-hearted carefree approach than many to the eloquent Alla danza tedesca, but they capture the passionate intensity of the tender, heartfelt Cavatina with spacious, unhurried playing of deep expressive penetration and perform the jolly substitute finale with strikingly rhythmic vitality and clear articulation.

Their powerful rugged version of the monumental, often enigmatic Grosse Fuge is searching and perceptive. Their ensemble is consistently polished notably in the various dramatic recitatives and bold unison passages, and their refreshingly direct spontaneous yet highly concentrated interpretation builds to an expansive and triumphant climax. Although this would not represent my first-choice recording of opp. 130 and 133 - that accolade is reserved for The Lindsays on ASV - these performances are highly commendable. The sound quality is more than adequate and the Naxos package otters excellent value for money.