‘Hamelin takes everything in his stride immaculately, whether it's the unfolding of the contrapuntal lines in the B-A-C-H Fantasy and Fugue or the fine-spun melodies of the Bénédiction de Dieu dans la solitude, both superbly presented’ (The Guardian)

‘Even by Marc-André Hamelin's standards this Liszt recital is a towering achievement. In the Fantasy and Fugue on the Theme B-A-C-H the opening idea emerges as if from a cloud of sulphur and, while Hamelin's technique is superhuman and magisterial, there is never a question of virtuosity for its own sake … in short, this is a pianist to trump all aces. Hyperion's sound and presentation are as immaculate as ever’ (Gramophone)

‘Hough transforms the rumbling, chromatic bass line [Ballade No 2] into an almost terrifyingly atmospheric setting’ (BBC Music Magazine)

‘[A] beautifully rendered collection … the wonderful refinement and quiet poetry of his playing is a constant joy. A highly distinguished disc’ (The Guardian)

‘At last, Hough tackles Liszt’s Sonata on record and the result is as musicianly as this fine pianist’s admirers might expect’ (Gramophone)

‘Hough at his meticulous best’ (Classic FM Magazine)

‘Thoughtful, intelligent, and beautifully recorded too – a special release’ (CDReview)

‘This is a superlative recording, one that defies criticism. Hough’s pianism is evocative, spiritual, and technically and tonally scrupulous. What better compliment could be given than to say that this is the way one imagines these pieces might have sounded when Liszt himself played them? Recorded sound is ideal, and an excellent, detailed booklet adds to the value of this outstanding release’ (American Record Guide)

‘Howard's steel-fingered pianistic athleticism is backed by strong musical intuition and there seems no limit to his technical prowess. The recorded sound is a banquet for the ears. Highly recommended’ (American Record Guide)

‘This, at last, is the comprehensive collection of late Liszt for which we've waited’ (Fanfare, USA)

‘Howard's performances are quite marvellous: scrupulously prepared and enlightened by this performer's high degree of spontaneity. Hyperion's recording captures every nuance’ (CDReview)

‘More riches from the late piano repertoire of Franz Liszt, performed with skill and authority. Another excellent recording’ (CDReview)