Symphony No.5 In C Sharp Minor

The recording of such a complex and ambitious work as Gustav Mahler’s Fifth Symphony by the Malaga Philharmonic Orchestra (OFM in Spanish) is a demonstration of the determination and enthusiasm with which the group is facing his 30th anniversary.

After their critically-acclaimed recording of Mahler’s Fourth Symphony, the Czech Philharmonic and Semyon Bychkov continue their Pentatone Mahler cycle with a rendition of the composer’s Fifth. The Fifth Symphony marks an important turning point in Mahler’s symphonic output, away from the prominence of vocal movements in his previous symphonies. And whereas the Fifth seems to follow a teleology from darkness to light like its predecessors, the trajectory is much less straightforward, and full of enigmatic turns. Bychkov’s exceptional eye for detail and pacing make him an ideal guide through this work, while the Czech Philharmonic is capable of letting all the colours of Mahler’s score shine.

Gustav Mahler: Symphony No. 5 in C sharp minor - Royal Philharmonic Orchestra; Daniele Gatti
Classical | 1 CD | EAC Rip | 296 MB, 3% recovery | FLAC+LOG+Cue | Complete scans | RS links
Publisher: RCA Red Seal/BMG | Recorded: 1997 | Published: 1998

It is a reading with a uniquely radiant atmosphere and one that I would urge you to add to your collection even if your instinct is to trust to grander symphonic visions and bigger names. - DSG, The Gramophone
It is a worthy contender and I recommend it. - Tony Duggan

Gustav Mahler: Symphony No. 5 in C sharp minor – Wiener Philharmoniker; Lorin Maazel, conductor
Classical | 1 CD | EAC Rip | 297 Mb | FLAC+LOG+Cue | Full scans | RS and 4share links
Publisher: Sony Classical

Contrary to his recording of Symphony no. 4, Maazel’s recording of Mahler’s Symphony No. 5 get divided reviews. My opinion is pretty much like this one from Amazon.com:
This is one of the best Mahler 5 recordings I have heard. The Vienna Philharmonic sounds absolutely fabulous. Maazel's has recorded the whole Mahler cycle with Vienna. The performance of Mahler 4 has become very well known. The Mahler 5 seems to be not as popular. This might be because Bernstein also recorded a great live version with Vienna as well. Maazel's interpretation of the piece is very balanced and clear. Maazel brings to me what is a slightly more clear approach to this music, but still with great climaxes. I really like the opening movement and the third movement scherzo. The balance between all the sections is really amazing. You can hear every entrance and every voice. This is a triumph of the players and to the Sony recording engineers. I would highly recommend this Mahler recording to anyone.