Album: Brahms, Symphonies 1 and 2 – LPO/Jurowski (LPO)

Performance style in Brahms has lately become as hotly contested an issue as it once was in Bach, with Mackerras arguing for impetuous speed changes and Gardiner so busy identifying thematic strata that the topography is blurred.

With lithe tempi, long, beautifully articulated phrases and judicious application of rubato, Vladimir Jurowski allows the plush sound of the LPO space to resonate. Recorded live, this crackles with contrapuntal vigour without losing gravitas. Breathtaking.