The pianism on this disc is really rather special. Recorded in concert in 1958, before Richter had made his breakthrough in the West and at a time when his playing had a raw energy and a sense of abandon that has become increasingly tempered over the years, this recital contains some of the most exquisite Liszt playing I have heard on disc. There are places, to be sure, where the sheer electricity and bravura carries one away (and occasionally – in the Mephisto Waltz No. 1, for example – nearly carries Richter himself over the edge), including a breathtaking performance of Gnomenreigen (truly il piu presto possible a la Simon Barere), and a stunning “Feux follets”.
Equally awe-inspiring, however, is the magical pianissimo playing, where it is easy to forget that such sounds are being coaxed from an essentially percussive instrument. In the monumental Funerailles one marvels at how Richter maintains such intensity in playing seemingly so straightforward and understated. Pianism of such concentration and inwardness draws the listener wholly into the artist’s world; for a more overtly impassioned response, a different kind of intensity, try Nikolai Demidenko on his “Live at Wigmore Hall” set (Hyperion, 1/94).
The recorded sound is variable and generally rather claustrophobic (particularly at louder dynamics) and the endings of some tracks have been faded out rather prematurely, presumably to omit the audience applause (personally, I would rather have the applause – especially after the final two items). Richter fans will not hesitate; indeed to all lovers of romantic pianism this is highly recommended.'