The Concerto for Two Pianos consists of a brief, preludial opening movement followed by a lengthy Theme and Variations. Berkeley packs this unusual format with plenty of contrast. His writing for the two pianos is expert: the music never sounds unduly thick and heavy, with the orchestra sometimes functioning as an unnecessary appendix to the full mass of piano tone. Again, the performance is excellent, and the sonics, while perhaps a touch distant, are otherwise up to Lyrita's extremely high standards. It's a pity that both of these pieces aren't more popular--and who knows, perhaps Berkeley is due for a reassessment. In the final analysis, though, he seems to be more of a musician's musician--not necessarily an "acquired taste" in the sense that his style is in any way difficult, but more the sort of thing for listeners who can appreciate fine craftsmanship for its own sake. If you're not a member of that group, this disc surely makes an excellent case for you to join.

--David Hurwitz, ClassicsToday.com