Frémaux's Massenet collection provides most enjoyable listening. This is highly tuneful music, and it's directed with appropriate vigour and refinement as the individual numbers require. The ballet music from Le Cid is full of the authentic rhythms of Spain, and there's real excitement in such numbers as the 'Aragonaise', where the members of the CBSO respond most admirably to Frémaux's demands for dynamic variation and instrumental shading.
At the quieter end of the spectrum, the delightful 'Madrilène', with its solos for cor anglais and flute, is most charmingly done.
Similar sensitivity is shown throughout the contrasted Scènes pittoresques. The further inclusion of the 'Last Sleep of the Virgin' – once a Beecham lollipop – was an inspired idea.
The recorded sound throughout is spacious and well balanced.