Reger: Variations and Fugue on a Theme of J. S. Bach /  Humoresques / Variations and Fugue on a Theme of  Telemann
Even world-class virtuosos exhibit some hint of strain in these technically murderous works, but Hamelin sails through them with superhuman aplomb. Inevitably, a dimension of the music is lost, since struggle is central to Reger's concept. But there's so much more in compensation, as unhindered fluidity of movement and a refusal to allow technical limitations to dictate tempos give Hamelin the freedom to dig beneath the notes. He also disproves the stereotype of Reger's keyboard music as clotted, revealing these works to be shapely explorations of variation form. From the baroque models, Reger constructs a vast, complex edifice, which Hamelin elucidates with thrilling virtuosity and coherence. Excellent sound, too. A don't-miss CD for piano buffs and devotees of keyboard romanticism.--Dan Davis