‘Shelley reminds us of why he is so suited to this repertoire: the sparkling passagework is impeccably and suavely delivered. Interaction between piano and orchestra is beautiful: the flute additions to the piano's ornamnentation are delightful … [The Adagio ed Allegro is] a magnificently chosen filler, a bonne bouche that perfectly showcases Shelley's considerable talents without making any real demands on the listener. Kalkbrenner remains an interesting figure, and these works deserve attention’ (International Piano)

‘Howard Shelley's virtuosity is seemingly effortless, even in the face of pianistic pyrotechnics which are prodigious in the extreme and seemingly endless too … a wonderful beauty and variety of tone, and carefully judged rubato and rhythmic nuances which give an air of improvisation to the constant embellishments of the slow movements … the support of the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra is no less distinguished, both in sonority and ardour, carrying the listenere through the extended orchestral expositions with real narrative sweep and ardour … Jeremy Nicholas' notes are excellent and the recording captures every detail and refinement of Shelley's stunning performances’ (International Record Review)

‘Shelley is a formidable presence both as soloist and conductor. Yes, he has the technique and dexterity to play this music; but he also understands how to make the most of the orchestral writing (which … is frequently more interesting than Chopin's) … there's a considerable grace to his playing too—his immersion in repertoire of this period has given him an innate understanding of what makes it tick’ (Gramophone)

‘Hamelin plays with all his trademark virtuosity and nimble wit, making the keyboard thunder and sing’ (San Francisco Chronicle)

‘Marc-André Hamelin simply flies through the music, ignoring any technical difficulties with the most marvellous command and virtuosity … in all, this second disc of Kapustin's marvellous music from Hyperion is the most exceptionally satisfying discovery’ (Hi-Fi Plus)

‘Exceptionally well-played and recorded’ (The Times)

‘The music is full of virtuosity which Marc-André handles effortlessly’ (BBC Music Magazine)

«Chapeau évidemment à cet incroyable Marc-André Hamelin dont la technique époustouflante s'adapte à tous les genres musicaux. Précipitez-vous pour acquérir cet événement discographique et découvrir cette musique sans pareil. Pour notre part, nous l'avons écoutée une bonne dizaine de fois pour bien nous convaincre de la réjouissante folie du dénommé Kapustin!» (Répertoire, France)

‘Hamelin captures a quality of spontaneity, not to mention sheer agility and elegance, with awesome fluency. A remarkable release in every respect’ (Fanfare, USA)

‘Hamelin is one of the most gifted pianists around at the moment, and his playing here has such light and shade, wit, nuance, and blinding virtuosity that it is hard to imagine finer performances of this terrific repertoire. The recording is characteristic of Hyperion's piano sound at its considerable best. All in all, one of the most enjoyable piano discs I have heard in ages. Recommended with unquenchable enthusiasm!’ (International Piano)

‘Beautifully recorded, the disc is a delightful—and, as ever, distinguished—addition to Hamelin's discography as well as a major boost to the reputation of one of today's most paradoxical composers. One for the Christmas stocking, I think’ (International Record Review)

‘Hamelin is one of Kapustin's strongest advocates and proves his perfect interpreter: super cool, he sounds utterly laid-back even in the most fearsome rhythmic traps; his phrasing is exquisitely turned and 'finished'; and his affection for the music shines out in every note. Hear this and you'll be hooked’ (Classic FM Magazine)