Robin Ticciati's approach to Schumann's four symphonies is like that of an expert make-up artist who cherishes every last aspect of the faces he works on. The highlighting of features is so pronounced, so exceptional, that the effect on a familiar face is wonderful and yet not always natural in detail. Schumann's symphonies have long suffered brickbats about the thickness of their orchestration, and Ticciati dispels these claims with real finality. Transparency is certainly high on his agenda. There's an abundance of affection and geniality as well, and a willingness to linger in order to ensure that a musical point is made. The sense of newness, of discovery, is at all times high. And, who knows, maybe the sheer deftness of his approach will become the new normal. linnrecords.com