Album Review: Simon Johnson – ‘Franck – Symphonic Organ Works’

(Hyperion)

Franck – Symphonic Organ Works. Simon Johnson (Hyperion)

At first glance this album seems as if it could throw up some interesting listening, particularly as it opens with the Symphony in D Minor, a piece that when first performed threw the Parisian Conservatoire into complete bewilderment with its innovation. A shame then, that it seems to have been aimed mostly at the music library market. Technically excellent, but distinctly lacking in any joie de vivre or unique performance interpretation, I waited and waited for the light to shine through. I waited in vain. For a Franck fan maybe this will be a tolerable addition to their collection, for anyone new to Franck, there’s better choices out there. 

2/5 stars