These two performances are taken from Eugen Jochum"s second complete Bruckner cycle, which is slowly reappearing two symphonies at a time in budget- priced repackaging. The performances are almost uniformly wonderful (only the Eighth was disappointing this second time around, mostly for sonic reasons), and these are two of the best. The Seventh Symphony, in particular, has a luminous quality to the long string melodies and a glowing sound to the brass that gives the music that special, spiritual aspect unique to Bruckner. The famous Adagio second movement has never sounded more solemn or serene, with a stunning midmovement climax. A great bargain. --David Hurwitz