American Rage

This powerful and timely collection from the impressive American pianist responds to the craziness of the world around him as well as to major events of the past. Bookended by two Frederic Rzewski works—each of which explores injustice and prejudice—played with burning conviction, Tao’s programme works brilliantly. Aaron Copland’s 1941 Piano Sonata—one of his most personal pieces, and American to its fingertips—is done thrillingly and movingly; meanwhile, Julia Wolfe’s response to 9/11, “Compassion”, which embraces a huge emotional palette, is played by Tao with a perfect mix of tenderness and anger. A thought-provoking and rewarding album.