Reviewed by Melvyn M Sobel,
Long Island, NY, March 14, 2007
PURE RAVEL!
In performances that seem more akin to spontaneous creations rather than typical displays of pyrotechnical maneuvering, Andrea Anderson illuminates Ravel with exquisite sensitivity, flexibility and through the immediacy of her deeply-felt, remarkably artistic temperament.
Magically distilled, for example, is her interpretation of the Valses nobles et sentimentales, particularly memorable for its haunting, sinuous sensuality and languid tension. In this pianist's hands, quite special as well is the engrossing Gaspard de Ia Nuit, with its shimmering, undulating “Ondine,” ominously tolling “Le Gibet,” and evocative “Scarbo.” Sans the usual artifice, this is persuasive, refreshing originality, most compelling. The Sonatine, played lovingly tres lent, is gorgeous, warm, unusually delicate and infused with an inescapable poetic melancholy that is ravishing.
The Jeux d’eau, too, sparkles trippingly along with fluid articulation and a beguiling rhythmic dance; and the Piece en forme de Habanera (transcribed by Ravel from his original 1907 “Vocalise-Etude,” a work intended as a study for voice and piano) offers up a fascinating morsel of esoterica ripe with moody Spanish ostinato ambience. In all, this Ravel recital presents an artist whose talent acquits itself splendidly...with playing of superb range, depth and humanity, all captured beautifully by Klavier engineer Harold Powell.
Of course, what makes this disc "enchanting" is, simply, Andrea Anderson.
Running time: 60:47
