Midori matches the second unaccompanied sonata by Bach with the first accompanied one by Bart?k, a pairing recorded six years apart and marred only by the slightly over-aggressive pounding of pianist Robert McDonald. Midori herself plays both composers with equal burning intensity. Her Bach has purpose, direction, perfect balance across the strings and beautiful, silk tone. Her Bart?k is passionate, searching and, in the final allegro, thrillingly, wildly dance-like as she digs in with her bow-heel and flies savage and uninhibited. What a pity that her partner’s hobnails overemphasise the point. A lighter, crisper touch is required.
(Sony)