Viardot/Kapralova/Mahler/Schumann: Charms

TOKAR / GRYSHYN may sound like a promising collaboration between two avant-garde artists, but their latest album Viardot-Garcia / Schumann / Mahler / Kapralova: Charmes has left us scratching our heads. The album kicks off with the whimsical Viardot-Garcia, a charming blend of operatic vocals and intricate piano melodies. TOKAR / GRYSHYN's unique interpretation brings a fresh perspective to this classical piece, but unfortunately, the magic fizzles out as we move on to Schumann and Mahler. Schumann's melancholic compositions lose their emotional depth in TOKAR / GRYSHYN's hands, with their experimental flourishes only serving to confuse rather than captivate. And don't even get us started on their take on Mahler - it's like a trainwreck in slow motion. But wait, just when we thought all hope was lost, TOKAR / GRYSHYN redeem themselves with Kapralova's Charmes. This piece is a true gem, showcasing the duo's undeniable chemistry and musical prowess. It's a breath of fresh air in an otherwise lacklustre album. Overall, Viardot-Garcia / Schumann / Mahler / Kapralova: Charmes is a mixed bag, with TOKAR / GRYSHYN's hit-and-miss approach leaving us feeling more puzzled than delighted. Maybe next time they should stick to what they do best and leave the classics to the pros.