Holmboe: Symphonies Nos. 8 & 9
This is great music. Holmboe isn't only the finest Scandinavian symphonist since  Nielsen or Sibelius; his achievement deserves to rank with the best on offer in the 20th century.  None of his symphonies are terribly long or difficult. They are all tonal and based on a firm  command of rhythm and melodic counterpoint. What this means in practice is that even where they  seem complex or less than tuneful, you always know exactly where you are--the music has a sense  of purpose and direction that keeps it moving towards its logical conclusion. These two symphonies  illustrate the point perfectly. The music is often so physically exciting that it's over before you're  even conscious of time passing. This great series of the complete Holmboe symphonies is one of  the best things to happen to the record business in years.--David Hurwitz