This is Louis-Victor-Bak’s first recording. It’s a distinguished debut, for Bak is a powerful presence at the piano; sensitive, subtle and shapely, too, creating glowing timbres from his instrument, faithfully captured by engineer Paul Baily. Debussy is represented by the two sets of Images – six pieces in total – atmospheric and suggestive music that Bak reveals with fine artistry, graded quiet playing, opulent fortissimos, and fluid phrasing. There’s no lack of dexterity – and with it clarity – in quicker numbers. The C-minor Sonata by Cécile Chaminade is a worthy coupling, impassioned music (reminding of Rachmaninov) that flirts with the Baroque and is not without songful charm. Bak’s recital – Indesens IC052 – closes with a Chaminade Study that keeps his ten digits busy while being musically attractive. I look forward to hearing more of Bak’s playing.
Louis-Victor Bak records Debussy & Chaminade for Indesens.
