Jordi Savall steps outside his usual repertoire with these two Beethoven performances. The result is very good indeed. Even the short Coriolan Overture comes over as a mysterious tone-poem which is far from a lightweight filler. Two things strike one immediately, the tempi and the penetrating sound of period instruments. ... Savall's timpani are, if I may be excused the term, particularly striking. It is obvious that hard sticks are used but it is not merely the loud notes but also the clarity of the soft ones that add rhythmic drive to the gentlest passages. The brass are encouraged to penetrate the textures when required making for some dramatic climaxes. Savall's own notes refer to the passionate involvement of Le Concert des Nations in these readings. It must not be imagined that these are merely speedy and exciting, they are deeply felt and sound, as he intends, like a real attempt to step into the shoes of the contemporary performers of Beethoven's day. For me it is a triumph and I cannot praise this too strongly.  Dave Billinge (Recording of the Month)