Beethoven: The Late String Quartets
The Hollywood's 1957 studio recordings of the late Beethovens became something of a cult  item, understandably so, since this accomplished foursome is technically faultless, deeply probing, and  rhythmically alert. Slow movements are broad; fast ones move with lithe grace. They're in the modern vein,  not far removed in spirit from the later Julliard Quartet interpretations, but with richer tonal quality. The  "Grosse Fugue," the original last movement of the Opus 130 Quartet, is exciting in its forward  thrust and precise articulation. But high spots abound in this three-disc set: a deeply moving Cavatina of  Opus 130, a dramatic Opus 127, and the final chorale section of the Opus 132 slow movement, among  much else. The Hollywood's interpretations have a fresh, newly-minted air of discovery about them,  making this set highly attractive. Sound is good, detailed mono.--Dan Davis