Susanna Mälkki’s exploration of Sibelius’s early orchestral works offers a captivating journey into the composer’s formative years, showcasing not only the richness of his compositions but also the evolution of his orchestral prowess. 

The Karelia Suite, Op. 11, opens the album with a delightful musical portrait of the region it is named after. Mälkki skillfully guides the Helsinki Philharmonic through the Wagnerian-influenced interludes, where rustling strings and horn calls create an optimistic atmosphere. The spirited middle section, with its well-balanced and mellow brass, exudes a folk-like character, giving listeners a glimpse into Sibelius’s scrappy yet charming compositional style of his early era. 

The Ballade, Op. 11, follows with an intriguing structure that mirrors the Intermezzo but places the spotlight on woodwinds. The Helsinki players deliver a lovely, blended sound, although a slightly drier articulation in the clarinet’s melodic line could have added more depth. The bassoon’s contrapuntal phrases, juxtaposed against a hymn-like texture, contribute to the piece’s overall beauty, accentuated by the outstanding SACD recording from BIS. 

Moving on to the Rakastava, Op. 14, Mälkki and the ensemble delve into the final 1912 revised version, showcasing Sibelius’s orchestration developments. The Lover, with its extreme registrations, evokes bold, vibrant emotions, embodying poignancy and yearning. In the Path of His Beloved exhibits excitement, although the performance could benefit from more noticeable variations in dynamics to fully capture the anticipated energy. Good Evening! stands out as a beautifully executed piece, with solo string voices creating an intricate interplay that transitions from coy charm to almost tragic farewells. 

The album concludes with the Op. 22 Lemminkäinen, a symphonic poem inspired by Finnish literary tradition. Mälkki skillfully highlights Sibelius’s growth in texture and color, particularly in the chattering winds of the first movement. The Swan of Tuonela, renowned for its darkness and mystery, is executed with finesse, drawing listeners into a world of introspection through delicate violins and poignant wind and string solos. 

While some performances of these works may be more vibrant, Mälkki and the Helsinki players deliver a commendable rendition across the board. The album’s curation, focusing on Sibelius’s early works, provides valuable insights into the composer’s creative trajectory, making it a compelling addition to any classical music enthusiast’s collection. Susanna Mälkki’s nuanced interpretation and the Helsinki Philharmonic’s expressive delivery make this recording a worthwhile exploration of Sibelius’s musical evolution.