DVORAK. Symphony No. 7 in D minor, Op. 70°. The ® Noonday Witch—symphonic poem, Op. 108f. London Symphony Orchestra / Istvan Kertesz. Decca Jubilee@ JB116; KJBC116. Items marked • from SXL6115 110/64), tSXL654316/721.

Rehearing Kertesz's reading of the Seventh and greatest of Dvofak's symphonies has made me far more sympathetic to his direct approach. Originally I felt his attack at the start—so lacking in the mystery that Monteux and others have brought to it—was disappointing, and that his straight manner in the syncopated rhythms of the Scherzo missed an essential lilt. This time it is his consistency that strikes home, and I would put this among the most refreshing versions available. However, unlike most other issues in this cycle the recording begins to show its age.

Both top and bass, I suspect, have been boosted in this new transfer, but the discrepancy is not serious, for the admirable recording of The Noonday Witch—issued much more recently in 1972—is made to match reasonably enough. It is now a generous coupling, for the four sharplycontrasted sections of the symphonic poem make up a substantial piece, the more striking in dramatic impact for the total charm of the opening section representing a child playing. E.G.