Bruckner and Brahms produced their official First Symphonies, both in C minor, in their 40s. Bruckner, the elder by nine years, got there first, in 1866. But it's his which is the more adventurous work, rich in musical thinking outside the box, and full of original touches that would become hallmarks of his later symphonies. So much so, in fact, that in later life he revised it and tamed the sometimes rough gestures of his youth. It's the younger, fresher vision which is preferred today. Jaap van Zweden presents it with refined tonal lustre from his Dutch orchestra, in a performance that secures a nice balance between spaciousness and energy. challenge.nl