Yevgeny Sudbin - Medtner: Piano Concerto No. 3, Op. 60 - Scriabin: Piano Concerto, Op. 20 (LP)

Yevgeny Sudbin, a pianist known for his profound interpretations and technical brilliance, presents a captivating album featuring two monumental piano concertos by Russian composers Nikolai Medtner and Alexander Scriabin. Released on February 3, 2015, under the BIS label, this album is a testament to Sudbin's artistry and his deep connection with the romantic and complex musical languages of these two composers.

The album opens with Medtner's Piano Concerto No. 3 in E Minor, Op. 60, nicknamed "Ballade." This three-movement work is a journey through a landscape of profound melancholy, heroic struggle, and ultimately, triumph. Sudbin's playing is both powerful and nuanced, bringing out the intricate details and the sweeping grandeur of Medtner's score.

The second half of the album is dedicated to Scriabin's Piano Concerto in F-Sharp Minor, Op. 20. This concerto is a tour de force of romantic expression, showcasing Scriabin's unique harmonic language and his ability to create deeply personal and evocative music. Sudbin's interpretation is both virtuosic and deeply felt, capturing the concerto's dramatic contrasts and its moments of tender introspection.

With a total duration of 1 hour and 2 minutes, this album is a substantial and rewarding listening experience. Sudbin's playing is supported by the Swedish Radio Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Thomas Dausgaard, providing a rich and responsive backdrop to the piano's voice. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a compelling exploration of two important works in the piano concerto repertoire, performed by one of today's most exciting pianists.