This 2023 release by makes a good comparison with a similar album by pianist that appeared around the same time. Both feature substantial works from later in 's career; both are by -specialist pianists who are highly esteemed by cognoscenti but are hardly household names. Also, oddly enough, both are on . That might seem like a catalog redundancy, but 's people know what they are doing, for interpretation is arguably among the most subjective tasks a pianist can take on. Where cultivates a dreamy interiority, 's readings are imposing and public-facing. Hear the opening of the , where he gets maximal resonance out of the opening note. The centerpiece of his program is the , with its famous funeral march coming out suitably imposing in 's hands. This is tumultuous, passionate that reminds the listener why and , who might easily have played these works this way, had quite a rivalry. The recording was made at the Kurhaus Semmering in 2018; there is no word on why it took until 2023 to be released, but the sound, catching the intensity of 's performances, is ideal. The bottom line is that both of Sony's 2023 albums are worth hearing. ~ James Manheim