This two-disc EMI set of the music of Krzysztof Penderecki features five works. The Kanon for strings and tape is from the Polish post-modernist's early enfant terrible period while the other four -- the choral-orchestral Te Deum, Lacrimosa Magnificat, and the purely orchestral "Christmas" Symphony -- are from his later established master period. The dramatic change of style between the two periods will likely impact listeners' reactions to the performances with the earlier work drawing in listeners attuned to the composer's epoch-making and nerve-wracking Threnody for the Victims of Hiroshima and the later works appealing to listeners who prefer more traditional modes of musical discourse. In every case, however, the music is ideally represented in performances led by the composer, and in his hands, the Kanon's screeching sheets of sound and the symphony's stately progress of harmonies are both equally impressive. Played by three different Polish radio orchestras and sung by two different Polish choirs and including contributions by some of Poland's best singers -- clarion soprano Ewa Podles is especially effective in the Te Deum -- no one who admires Penderecki's music should let this set pass by unheard. EMI's late stereo sound is a bit gray and boxy, but still clear enough to let the music through. ~ James Leonard, All Music Guide
