Please name the two best available recordings of Stravinsky's "Rite of Spring"

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Clarification of Question by stancranley-ga on 28 Oct 2006 05:41 PDT

I should clarify my question (in response to the comment below). I am
not that concerned with acoustics and sound.

I am interested in the artistic/musical quality of the performance, as
judged by critics or other knowledgeable listeners.

Hopefully, a recording praised for capturing an epsecially stirring
performance would also have a nice sound.

What is "best"?  Acoustic recording, artistic interpretation?

Several versions are recommendable:

1. Atlanta Symphony Orchestra/Yoel Levi (TELARC CD 80266) coupled with
Pulcinella. Suitably savage and authentic account with stunning sound.
2. Philharmonia Orchestra/Igor Markevitch (Testament SBT 1076). 2
versions of the Rite from 1950s. Superb readings and surprisingly good
sound
3. Kirov Orchestra/Valery Gergiev (Philips 468 035-2). Just issued
earlier this year and lives up to its promise. Authentic Russian sound
and visceral interpretation.
4. London Symphony Orchestra/Robert Craft (Naxos 8.557501). Scholarly
and exciting reading from a conductor who knew Stravinsky inside out.

Hope this helps a little.

thank you, deliciousmanager.  I will check these out!

Try the version by Pierre Monteux w/ Paris Conservatoire Orchestra. He
conducted the premiere on that fateful night in 1913