Carlos Prieto and Doris Stevenson - Shostakovich: Sonatas (2006)

Along with outstanding performances of two of the finest chamber works of the twentieth century, this disc also contains two irrefutable arguments for the universality of Shostakovich's genius. First, it has the composer's Sonata for viola and piano transcribed for cello and piano, a transcription that proves the music sounds just as effective played on either instrument. And second, it has performances of both the transcribed Viola Sonata and the Sonata for cello and piano by Mexican cellist Carlos Prieto, performances that demonstrate that the player doesn't have to be a Communist or a Russian to comprehend and express the music. True, Prieto does bring more nervous energy to the music than Rostropovich and more brilliant color than Maisky. But his energy and colors fit well within the range of both pieces and in fact expand rather than contract their range. Of course, it helps that Prieto is a first-class player with a big technique and a huge tone. But it helps more that he is a soulful player who gets beneath the skin of both the early and optimistic Cello Sonata and the late and pessimistic Cello née Viola Sonata. Accompanied by accomplished American pianist Doris Stevenson, Prieto has made a recording that deserves to be heard by anyone who loves either work -- and that needs to be heard by those who believe Shostakovich is only for Communists and Russians. Urtext's sound is warm but a bit distant, clear but a shade recessed.