In contrast to the uncluttered sentiment and fiery bravura that distinguish the Ballade's classic historic recordings by Leopold Godowsky and Arthur Rubinstein, Andsnes looks the music's darker undercurrents squarely in the eye, as his rather austere yet beautifully shaded shaping of the folk-song theme reveals. Notice also the yearning quality Andsnes brings to Variation Two's descending two-note phrases while at the same time bathing the background filigree in ravishing colors.

At first Variation Four scintillates less than you'd expect, but the extra kick and characterization in the left hand's juicy cross-rhythms more than compensate. The Liszt-like climaxes manage to exude both impulsive energy and aristocratic refinement, with Andsnes holding out that strange, disruptive low E-flat forever and a day. To be sure, collectors who want the Ballade but already own the aforementioned concerto and Lyric Pieces discs may not wish to shell out full price for just 19-plus minutes of new material. That, dear readers, is why I take digital downloads seriously!

--Jed Distler, ClassicsToday.com