Instruct: Classify Amazon reviews into positive or negative sentiment
Query: Quite disappointing performance

With an "all-star" duo for these Brahms Sonatas one would expect more than what was given in these performances. Not only are the performances without life, there is very poor recording balance between the two instruments with the piano vastly overshadowing the cello. Ma, although a fine technician,is especially lifeless and unexpressive in these performances as he has been in other recordings. I would rate the Starker/Sebok Mercury recordings as being my favorites for many decades. Originally I had the Starker/Sebok performances on LP and later acquired the CD version also on Mercury which is coupled with the Mendelssohn Cello Sonatas. Amazon.com states that this CD has been discontinued by Mercury but it may be available through another retailer. It's worth the hunt to find it. If it is not to be found, then I would choose the Rostropovich/Serkin performances on DG as an excellent choice.