Prokofiev 3 & Bart�k 2

 �Immediately [the Prokofiev] explodes into life with Lang Lang�s sparkling playing with seemingly boundless reserves of energy...Outstanding in the opening [of the Bart�k] is Lang Lang�s rhythmic potency borders on the demonic...Under the baton of Sir Simon Rattle the Berliner Philharmoniker is highly persuasive and sympathetic. Not for the first time the woodwind excel - marvellous.� --MusicWeb International, November 2013

�How smart of Sony to have recorded [Lang Lang] in repertoire which plays to his strengths. This Prokofiev 3 is exceptionally good � thunderous when it needs to be, and always rhythmically alert. And Simon Rattle is a supremely effective partner...[the Bart�k] makes for an unexpected, rewarding coupling.� --The Arts Desk, 12th October 2013

�Lang Lang has the necessary power and athleticism to bring tremendous energy and drive to [Prokofiev's] more motoric writing...[he] sails through the passagework [of the Bartok] with exemplary clarity...The problem in the outer movements rests with the pianist's tendency to make everything sound harsh and percussive� --BBC Music Magazine, December 2013 ****

�Lang Lang gives a persuasive account of the Prokofiev. His finely observed detail..., the full use of the piano's sumptuous sonority and dynamic range and his effortless technical mastery would excite anyone's admiration...[in the Bartok] Lang Lang and Rattle are hugely impressive but, for my taste, a shade too polite.� --Gramophone Magazine, November 2013