Brilliant Performance/Hideous Sound
07/30/2002
(4 out of 5 stars)
"I bought this CD purely for the Richter Scriabin recordings, especially the 6th sonata, which is the most thrilling and exciting interpretation I have ever heard of this work. Just be prepared for the worst sound in the world. I do not exaggerate. If you grabbed someone and made them listen to and describe what they were hearing without telling them what it is, they might answer, "An amazing virtuoso pianist has kindly condescended to give a recital in a tuberculosis clinic." This CD was still worth it to me because of my love of Richter and the 6th sonata, but a more casual fan might not think so. For what it's worth, the sound on the other recordings on this CD is considerably better--no coughing."