The King of the Stars is a short, five and one-half minute score for male chorus and orchestra. Although written at about the same time as the Rite, its harmonies look ahead to the Symphonies of Wind Instruments. Tilson Thomas effectively captures the hushed, sensuous mood of the piece. Dutoit's Petrouchka, while adequate, is far from outstanding. All too often, he completely misses the vibrant colors and beautiful melodies that are the hallmark of this score.
Pacing is dull, and rhythms are flaccid.
Pianist Tamas Vasary provides the only brilliant moments. The sound is dry, artificial, and without warmth. Haitink and Boulez both find far more variety and vitality in this music. Leonard Slatkin's latest release is a valiant attempt at a classical 'concept' album. In his notes, Richard Freed attempts to draw the parallels between the three works.