Holst, The Planets

This was the first LP record my father bought for me, and I am not entirely sure why he chose this particular work, but I immediately adored it, playing it over and over, to the point where I have now basically memorized every movement in my head. 

While many albums have become a part of the soundtrack to my life, this one surely receives the place of honor. Though I have my new wave, progressive rock, Irish folk, bluegrass, acid jazz, and a recurring fixation with baroque music, this is my first love. 

I am also bound to this particular recording, having never found another that fills me with so much joy. Though it is now considered an "outdated" version by some, I was pleased to later find it on CD, as the vinyl, however meticulously cared for, can only take so many more plays. 

Holst led me to a further appreciation of Elgar, Vaughan Williams, Delius, Parry, and Britten, the sort of music classical snobs look down upon, since they assume the English can neither cook nor compose. They are sorely mistaken on both counts. 

Gustav Holst, The Planets, Sir Adrian Boult/London Philharmonic (1979) 

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLgTPaaiUsFv_ZRMLOeHtWXyhr2cQsUiBY