The Lindsays - Beethoven String Quartets Vol. 3 (2001) | Classical Music CD for Relaxation & Dinner Parties

Contrary to some opinions voiced here and elsewhere, I feel that the Lindsays are the best thing to happen to the Beethoven String Quartets since the golden days of the Busch and Lener Quartets (whose recordings I also own and enjoy!) It is clear that the Lindsays have thought long and hard about these works, especially in light of the fact that these recordings will ultimately be their swan-song(s). One brief example -- the "Beklemmt" passage in the slow movement of Op.130. I've not heard another group since the Busch Quartet dare to take the composer at his word in this strange, unearthly passage. Listen and weep!If you are just looking for spit and polish -- chrome-plated Beethoven for the dashboard of your Lexus -- you might want to avoid the Lindsays. There is too much blood, sweat and tears for that purpose; feel free to invest in the Emerson set instead. Otherwise, give these guys a listen! Incidentally, their intonation and ensemble is definitely up to the task, and much better than on their previous Beethoven cycle from several years ago.