Argenta/LSO: España (Rimsky-Korsakov, Chabrier, Granados, etc.) - Decca SDD 216

$

28

redgarnett Store ITEM DESCRIPTION:

This handsome LP from Decca (SDD 216, UK pressing, “Ace of Diamonds” series, white label, stereo) features Ataulfo Argenta’s legendary ‘España!’ album.

This stunning LP was recorded with the London Symphony Orchestra in the fabled acoustics of Kingsway Hall in December 1956 and January 1957 (Erik Smith, producer / Gordon Perry, engineer).

Side 1 features a bewitching performance of Rimsky-Korsakov’s Capriccio Español Op. 34, followed by an equally captivating account of Granados’ Danza Española No. 5 in E minor ‘Andaluza’.

Side 2 opens with Chabrier’s España, before continuing with Book I Op. 12 (Nos. 1-5) of Moskowski’s Spanish Dances. Justly famous, the LSO’s playing throughout boasts a delicacy and panache that is simply breathtaking, the whole served up in glorious demonstration quality sound. 

Released in December 1958, this celebrated recording was issued in both mono and stereo, though the latter incarnation has remained an elusive collector’s item ever since. Wrote The Stereo Record Guide:

“A sumptuously recorded mixture of Spanish music, mostly from the pens of non-Spaniards, which has already become a Decca best seller in the mono version. The stereo disc adds more spaciousness and separation to already excellent recording.”

And in their indispensable monograph Full Frequency Stereophonic Sound, authors Robert Moon and Michael Gray ranked it 2nd among the Top Rank of FFSS productions.

Those unfamiliar with Decca’s “Ace of Diamonds” series would do well to investigate them – though not as rare as the original issues, they arguably offer smoother sound. Moreover, they boast original artwork and expert transfers – the production values are absolutely first rate.

There are extensive liner notes (uncredited) on the reverse side of the jacket, printed in English only. The lovely cover art is simiarly uncredited.

CONDITION:

The gradations of condition I use are as follows: MINT, Near-Mint, Excellent, Very Good, Good, Fair, Poor.

The condition of the jacket is near-MINT. There is very minor bumping at corners, as well as light discoloration to the rear panel, but that is all. However, there are no seamsplits or owners' markings, and whole remains solid, bright, glossy, and highly attractive – overall, a truly excellent collector's copy.

The condition of the LP itself is near-MINT. Though the surfaces are not perfectly silent (and thus I have rated it NM vs. MINT) this is a fine copy and playback is superb. If you must have perfect surfaces, then please do not buy this LP. Overall, this rates as a NM collector's copy.

PLEASE NOTE:
This LP has been carefully cleaned using a VPI cleaning machine. All LPs are provided with a new Nagaoka (or Nagaoka-style) inner sleeve. The images I've provided are of the actual item you are potentially bidding on - these are not stock images or images I've taken from other sites. Bid with confidence!

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REFUNDS:
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