Schubert: Symphonies Nos. 3 & 8
Carlos Kleiber's recordings are rare events, almost invariably worth the  wait. This performance of theUnfinishedis typical: direct, unfussy,  superbly played, and unflaggingly intense. It certainly doesn't hurt to have the  Vienna Philharmonic as an eager participant in the process, contributing their  customary warmth and inbred sense of style. The delightful Third Symphony gets  taken out for a charming workout, with the second movement zipping along at a  controversially fast speed. At midprice, this reissue offers excellent value, and it's  particularly nice to have theUnfinishedfeatured as the major work. As  Kleiber shows, it deserves the attention.--David Hurwitz