...Michael Tilson Thomas's view of the symphony...is a very forthright, optimistic view; it is more concerned to present Mahler the brilliant and daring orchestrator... [T]he orchestral playing...proclaims that the LSO are well pleased with their new Principal Conductor and augurs well for their future in both concert hall and studio... The wind playing, solo and ensemble, is highly distinguished and the strings have a strength and a sheen that recall the orchestra's peak period of a few years ago.

The soloist in the fourth and sixth movements is Dame Janet Baker. She also sings the Rückert Lieder which she recorded so memorably with Barbirolli for EMI 20 years ago... The new performance is marked by the benefits of long acquaintance with this music. Dame Janet is so immersed in these songs that they have become a private act of self-communion... "Ich bin der Welt" is almost crooned, a triumph of artistry. The earlier performance is the noonday of this great voice; here is the golden twilight.

- Gramophone