Nielsen: Symphonies 4 & 5
The composer that Nielsen resembles more than any other as a symphonist  is Beethoven. Naturally the idiom is a bit more modern (though firmly tonal and  melodic), but there's the same sense of drama, energy, and musical concentration  that you find in Beethoven's symphonies. When you listen to Nielsen's music, you  can't miss the sense of purpose--the music has a goal and will literally  overcome any hurdle to get there. That's exactly what happens in these two  splendid symphonies. Herbert Blomstedt has been a forceful proponent of  Nielsen's music for his entire career, and he plays with total commitment.-- David Hurwitz