Pianist has specialized in thematic programs that offer unusual depth and reach. is no exception, exploring the ramifications of 's with a few generally relevant premonitions from . The centerpiece, occupying most of the first disc, is 's six-movement , a concerto of sorts for piano, electronic tape (remember that? soon it is going to require its own historical instrument specialists), and orchestra. This bristly work will be tough going for some, but its connections of mood and ethos to are clear enough. Still, it might have been more effective at the end of the program than at the beginning; the three pieces on the second half of the program could have built up to it. makes an appearance in an arrangement of the by , and there is a 27-minute rendition of the Adagio from 's unfinished , the work in which 's debt to is at its clearest. One may wonder what the point of arranging for piano is, but the heroic quality of this performance fits 's general style. There is a lot on this album that is extreme, but it is arguably extremity of the best kind. ~ James Manheim