Ottavio Dantone - J.S. Bach: The Well Tempered Clavier, Book II (2001)

Dantone opens book two with an exceptionally tender interpretation of the first prelude; this work is often played too quickly, too aggressively, but Danton is very humble in his performance of this piece, he lets the music take over rather than directing it too rigidly.
His performance of the C sharp major prelude is a gem - his ornamentation is fresh and delightful, his phrasing subtle and inventive. He takes this piece and gives it new life, infusing it with joy and happiness. Even the following fugue takes on this tone, in spite of the radical difference between the two pieces.
One could say that Dantone has almost a French sound in the preludes; the F minor prelude in book II is a good example of this. He plays the notes slightly détaché, with a very "precious" touch and ornamentation. His rhythms are always very clear and incisive, and his phrasing is excellent.
In the fugues, Dantone provides a clarity of the different voices which is rare indeed. His rhythms are lively, his tempi appropriate, but, above all, what comes through most is a deep joy. His performances are far from the didactic fugues played by some artists; he shows that these works are, while built on strict rules and counterpoint, eminently enjoyable.
This is a one of the best recordings available of the Well-Tempered Clavier for harpsichord. The combination of the beautiful instrument, excellent recording and uniquely personal interpretation puts this among the few truly indispensable recordings of this work on harpsichord. Ottavio Dantone is certainly a harpsichordist to follow in the coming years. This set announces a great musician. -- Kirk McElhearn