John McCabe - Twentieth Century Piano Music

Review by Daniel Robinson

Twentieth Century Piano Music by John McCabe is a stunning album that showcases the composer's virtuosity and versatility. The album features a collection of pieces that span the entire twentieth century, from the early works of Debussy and Ravel to the more contemporary works of Ligeti and Boulez.

McCabe's playing is masterful and nuanced, bringing to life the intricate textures and complex rhythms of each piece. He approaches each work with a deep understanding of its history and context, delivering performances that are both technically impressive and emotionally engaging.

One of the standout tracks on the album is McCabe's rendition of Debussy's "Images, Book 1." His playing is rich and expressive, capturing the dreamlike quality of the music perfectly. Similarly, his interpretation of Boulez's "Notations" is a tour de force of technical skill and musicality.

Summary by Daniel Robinson

Twentieth Century Piano Music is a must-have album for anyone interested in contemporary classical music. McCabe's playing is impeccable, and the selection of pieces is both varied and representative of the major trends and movements of the twentieth century. Highly recommended.