But….I had hints that these remasterings were done by Yoshio Okazaki, originally released on Toshiba’s HQCD series. Reviews so far suggest otherwise (or don‘t even bother to comment on the provenance). A great shame as it would have given enthusiasts truly wonderful recordings. Having the Toshiba issues (except the 4th) I haven’t bought this set so I’m not in a position to comment. I’ll borrow it from the library in due time.
By dint of clever marketing EMI/Toshiba led us to think they would never appear in the UK. They may have been telling the truth. So the point is, until the thing is clarified, treat this set with caution, not expecting the Japanese remasters.
(I’ve never been happy with his destruction of the 8th Finale. There is but one recording of him conducting the whole movement and it’s every bit as magisterial as his other readings, so why, just to clip out about 5 minutes’ worth?)
