These two ballets represent the opposite extremes of Stravinsky's creative personality. On the one hand, there's The Rite of Spring, the ultimate expression of musical primitivism (so much so that it served as "dinosaur" music in Disney's Fantasia). On the other hand, there's Pulcinella, and elegant neo-classical confection based on the music of Italian Baroque masters, Pergolesi in particular. Even if they have little else in common, both pieces require pinpoint rhythmic accuracy, and they are smartly performed here. But beyond the high general standard of performance, The Rite of Spring demands superior recording quality; it's one of those audio demo pieces, and in that regard Telarc has really stepped up to the plate. So go ahead; blow up your speakers! --David Hurwitz