Original Japan MFSL Audiophile LP! Fritz Reiner conducts the Chicago Symphony in Strauss' Also Sprach Zarathustra. With insert!
Record is NM! Cover is NM!

Richard Strauss: Also sprach Zarathustra – Conducted by Fritz Reiner with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra – MFSL 1-522 Mobile Fidelity Sound Lab (Japan, Audiophile)

This MFSL 1-522 audiophile release from Mobile Fidelity Sound Lab (MFSL) features Fritz Reiner conducting the Chicago Symphony Orchestra in Richard Strauss’s tone poem Also sprach Zarathustra. Known for its iconic opening fanfare, famously used in the film 2001: A Space Odyssey, this piece is a masterful exploration of philosophical themes, rendered with dynamic orchestration. Mobile Fidelity's meticulous production offers an unparalleled listening experience with exceptional clarity and depth. In near-mint (NM) condition, this Japanese pressing is highly prized among audiophiles for its sonic excellence and collectibility.

About the Recording Conductor: Fritz Reiner (1888–1963) was one of the 20th century’s most celebrated conductors, known for his precision and intensity. His interpretation of Also sprach Zarathustra is widely regarded as definitive, capturing both the power and the subtleties of Strauss’s composition. Orchestra: The Chicago Symphony Orchestra delivers a stunning performance under Reiner’s baton, known for its richness and precision, and perfectly suited to convey the monumental scale and dramatic contrasts of the work. Album Details Label: Mobile Fidelity Sound Lab (MFSL), Japan Catalog Number: MFSL 1-522 Format: Vinyl LP, Audiophile-grade pressing, Stereo Condition: Near Mint (NM), ensuring pristine audio quality with minimal to no signs of wear, ideal for collectors and audiophiles. Content Overview

Richard Strauss: Also sprach Zarathustra, Op. 30

This tone poem is divided into several sections, each representing different philosophical ideas inspired by Nietzsche’s book of the same name. Some of the notable sections include:

Introduction ("Sunrise")

The iconic opening fanfare, symbolizing the grandeur of the universe, is one of the most recognizable pieces of classical music. It opens with a dramatic crescendo that immediately captivates the listener.

Of the Backworldsmen

A contrasting, quieter section that explores philosophical introspection, captured beautifully by Reiner’s nuanced interpretation.

The Dance Song

This lively, rhythmic section reflects Strauss’s inventive orchestration, with lush textures and dance-like motifs.

Night Wanderer’s Song

The work concludes with a mysterious and unresolved ending, symbolizing the eternal nature of philosophical inquiry.

Reiner’s interpretation brings out both the drama and the introspective depth of each section, creating a balanced and immersive performance.

Sound Quality and Collectibility

This MFSL Japanese pressing is celebrated for its audiophile-grade sound quality, featuring a wide dynamic range, rich tonal balance, and superb clarity. Mobile Fidelity Sound Lab is known for its meticulous remastering process, ensuring that this release captures the full depth and impact of the original recording. The near-mint condition of this LP further enhances its desirability, offering an almost untouched listening experience.

Why This Recording is Special Audiophile Standard: MFSL’s remastering provides an immersive, high-fidelity experience that captures the grandeur and intricate details of Strauss’s composition. Definitive Interpretation: Reiner’s reading with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra is often cited as one of the best interpretations of Also sprach Zarathustra, making this LP a must-have for fans of Strauss’s music. Conclusion

The MFSL 1-522 audiophile release of Richard Strauss’s Also sprach Zarathustra, conducted by Fritz Reiner with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, is a landmark recording that combines technical brilliance with interpretative depth. This near-mint Japanese pressing offers an extraordinary listening experience, making it a highly valued addition for classical music lovers and audiophile collectors alike.

Record Grading I use the following grades: M/M- Only for still sealed or certain unplayed records NM    Should look very close to unplayed EX+   With very few signs of use EX     Some light signs of use but nothing that should affect the    listening experience VG+   A really nice LP with some signs of use and the can be the odd light click, but nothing major at all VG    There are clear signs of use and there can be some recurring clicks and crackles, but not continously.  G       There are many marks and lines and you should expect that the listening experience will be hampered. But still playable. + and - are used for nuances. P/F    Very rarely used. Only very rare records will be listed in this condition
Shipping If you win more than one of my auctions, I will of course pack it together and you will get the actual shipping cost from Sweden to the world.
Worldwide shipping rates (note that boxes counts as the number of records in the box): 1-2 LPs €18 3-5 Lps €25 6-8 Lps €30 7+ Lps €40
I have many listings, most from one collection in great condition. Most are in top condition. Decca SXL and LXT, Columbia SAX and 33CX, HMV His Master's Voice ASD and ALP, Deutsche Grammophon DGG, Philips Hi-Fi Hifi, Westminster, Proprius, MFSL Mobile Fidelity, and many more.