Customer Reviews
vigorously dramatic, and a typical recording, but not clear - By: Thomas Neal, 01 Jun 2008 
In the same way that Naxos' New College Oxford recording of "Messiah" is an example of the English Cathedral tradition, this recording is a great sample of the choral society tradition. Although the recording includes some huge names from the world of classical music, I was not over-enthrallled by the recording as a whole. The age of the recording (1966) is made obvious in the quality of sound, & the entire ensemble is too big to hear the words properly, & of course this is reflected in the acoustic. The presentation is acceptable, but there are few programme notes & no copy of the text. However, what this recording does have is drama & vigour in abundance.
Both the choir & orchestra sing well & accurately enough, & the soloists are OK too - it is probably Helen Watts who gives the best performance on this disc, especiallly in the aria "But who may abide", when the rich sonorities of her voice are fully demonstrated.
In many ways whichever Messiah recording one buys rests on what one is looking for. If you would like to hear a performance in the true choral society tradition - like one might hear every year in Huddersfield - then look no further, as this is the finest recording in that tradition. But if you would prefer a recording in the Cathedral tradition, look for Naxos' New College Oxford recording - a superbly accurate & precise recording with the Academy of Ancient Music, outstanding soloists, perfect acoustic, & a truly authentic Baroque performance (note, however, that this recording varies slightly from the score we know so well, as it is the composer's 1751 edition, although I found it to be even more enjoyable!)
To correct previous reviews - By: Mr. Neal Carter, 07 Dec 2007 
This recording was made in 1966, so is alll the more remarkable, considering the plethera of recordings to date. John Wakefield is an unsual choice, with a suitable heroic ring to the voice. John Shirley-Quirk, as ever, brilliant, with Helen Watts a smooth & sonorous Contralto. The final soloist, Heather Harper is fresh & brilliant of sound. The whole direction by Sir Colin Davis, with the LSO is captivating. Do not miss this chance to own.
The best recording to date - By: Beatrice Nano, 30 Oct 2007 Don't be put off by the fact that the original recording was made in the 1980s. It's been re-engineered & is simply top notch! This is by far the best recording I've ever come across. The fact that it's on a Phillips label doesn't hurt either. The orchestra (LSO)is just right--not too heavy, not too light, & the interpretations are superb. Can't go wrong with the label, the orchestra, or the composer.
Golden oldie - By: , 10 Dec 2004 This is a CD version of an 80's recording which is so good I've stuck with it rather than going for a newer one. The LSO chorus are excellent, light-footed & accurate; Colin Davis takes them through some of the numbers at high speed but they make it sound easy (it isn't, as anyone who's sung Messiah will know). Helen Watts is a beautiful & moving alto soloist & John Shirley-Quirk is also outstanding.
