This much sought-after maestro takes the first movement broadly enough to lend credence to what might seem mere ideological posturing...There are a few tank-like manoeuvres en route...but everything works in context.

To start with we have the Fifth Symphony, and what a treat it is: the first few bars exemplify everything that I liked about this recording: woodwind playing that is sensitive in places and yet cheeky and raucous when required, glowingly effulgent string playing, and some excellent brass contributions with a pleasingly menacing presence and plenty of bite in the trombones and tuba.

This is an affectionate account, far removed from Gergiev’s full-on intensity with the LSO, but alert, almost balletic, rising to an emotional climax in the great Adagio. The finale is an exhilarating whirlwind of a dance.