This symphony is one of the truly stunning works for orchestra, at times serene and loving and others anguished and devastated. There are moments within this recording that will make you hum and others in which your heart will stop in your chest. These LSO Live recordings have a frisson to them that are sometimes lacking in studio recordings. Of course Gergiev has a big part to play, moulding each phrase into meaning. This is the only work on the CD and it feels like such a journey that it sits beautifully central on this recording. A great way to spend a winter afternoon.