Dejan Lazić - Liaisons, Vol. 1: Piano Works by Scarlatti & Bartók (LP)

Dejan Lazić, the Croatian pianist known for his virtuosic technique and expressive playing, presents a captivating journey through the worlds of Domenico Scarlatti and Béla Bartók in his album "Liaisons, Vol. 1: Piano Works by Scarlatti & Bartók." Released on January 1, 2009, under the Channel Classics label, this album is a testament to Lazić's versatility and musical prowess, spanning a diverse range of compositions from two distinct periods and styles.

The album opens with a selection of Scarlatti's keyboard sonatas, showcasing the composer's innovative and often daring harmonic language. Lazić's interpretation brings out the rhythmic vitality and contrapuntal complexity of these works, offering a fresh perspective on these Baroque masterpieces. The sonatas, ranging from the playful and light-hearted to the profound and introspective, demonstrate Scarlatti's ability to convey a wide range of emotions through his music.

The second half of the album is dedicated to the works of Béla Bartók, a composer known for his unique blend of folk music influences and modernist techniques. Lazić's rendition of Bartók's "3 Rondos on Slovak Folk Tunes" and "7 Sketches" highlights the composer's intricate rhythmic structures and rich harmonic language. The album also includes selections from Bartók's educational work "Mikrokosmos," showcasing Lazić's technical brilliance and musical sensitivity.

With a total duration of 1 hour and 18 minutes, this album offers a comprehensive exploration of the piano works of Scarlatti and Bartók. Dejan Lazić's nuanced interpretations and impeccable technique make this a compelling addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection. Whether you're a longtime fan of these composers or a newcomer to their music, "Liaisons, Vol. 1" promises an engaging and rewarding listening experience.