By the time the European avant garde had advanced to breaking china and blowing train whistles, Swiss composer Othmar Schoeck was deemed "too accessible."  Their loss, as "Notturno," op. 47, (1931-1933) is a post-romantic chamber gem.  Poems by Nikolaus Lenau, scored for string quartet and baritone are given a new reading on an ECM recording featuring the rock-solid, Rosamunde Quartet, with Christian Gerhaher.  This is attractive, meaty, but agile musicianship, showing a wonderful dynamic range.  Extra props go to Herr Gerhaher for his beautiful tone, and impeccable diction. –Hugo Munday