They just don't seem to cut it, no matter who's leading 'em.

Still, that CRD version sounded very good to me last time I listened.Īvoid big ensembles in this piece. Both versions feature 'early instruments' but were done before the term HIP was common, so not every element of the performances may comply with current early performance practice. Don't bother with the performance they did for DGG/Arkiv, which I think was done in digital, but which features squealier instrument playing, lower energy and comparatively weak ensemble. They did two versions (maybe more?), one in all analogue sound for the CRD label and released in the US on Vanguard-don't know who (if anyone) released this on CD, but THIS IS THE VERSION YOU WANT. The same could be said of Marriner/ASMF on early Argo, and the sound is marginally better on that one, but I tend to prefer I Musici's playing. Gorgeous ensemble and execution in every way, including very good recording, but on modern instruments. I Musici's first stereo version on Philips (surely they released it on CD at some point).

I'll give you some old-school alternatives:

Vivaldi the four seasons best recording