Bach: Goldberg Variations/Takemitsu: Rain Tree Sketch II

Reiko Fujisawa's latest album, "Bach / Takemitsu: Goldberg Variations," is a delightful collision of the old and the new, like watching a period drama set to a futuristic techno beat. Fujisawa takes Bach's timeless Goldberg Variations and injects them with the avant-garde spirit of Takemitsu, resulting in a musical marriage that is as unexpected as it is captivating. From the opening notes of the "Aria," Fujisawa showcases her technical prowess and emotional depth, effortlessly navigating the intricate melodies and harmonies that have made the Goldberg Variations a staple of the classical music repertoire. But it's her daring interpretation of Takemitsu's arrangements that truly sets this album apart. Tracks like "Variation 15" and "Variation 30" are transformed into ethereal dreamscapes, where Bach's Baroque sensibilities meld seamlessly with Takemitsu's modernist vision. Fujisawa's piano playing is nothing short of mesmerizing, drawing the listener in with its mix of grace and power. In the end, "Bach / Takemitsu: Goldberg Variations" is a triumph of artistic fusion, a bold reimagining of a classic work that manages to be both reverent and revolutionary. Fujisawa's talent knows no bounds, and this album is a testament to her ability to push boundaries and challenge conventions.