Topic: NEW CDs
This is an expertly played, beautifully recorded take on Gershwin standards. One way to look at the panoply of recordings of the "Piano Concerto in F" and "Rhapsody in Blue" is to consider the respective weight of the classical and jazz/pop aspects of Gershwin's language in each one. This disc, perhaps surprisingly in view of the jazz background of Rochester Philharmonic conductor Jeff Tyzik, doesn't play up the jazziness of Gershwin. Listen to the finale of the piano concerto: it is brisk and sharp but not brassy. California pianist Jon Nakamatsu elaborates the work in ways related to Romantic pianism rather than to jazz, most noticeably with a good deal of tempo rubato. Given that these performances stress Gershwin's symphonic aspect (which was how 1920s audiences encountered these pieces, the rediscovery of the small-orchestra versions of the "Rhapsody in Blue" coming only much later), the listener will find them among the very best available in that style. These readings are detailed and subtle -- not words always used in connection with Gershwin, but this recording finds those qualities in his music.

New York Times
Mr. Nakamatsu’s relaxed virtuosity in the concerto and the rhapsody is in contrast to the usual "wired" approach to these pieces. He lingers and ruminates where others press on. Bernard Holland

Dallas Morning News [Grade: A-] Right away, you'll notice the rhythmic snap and crackle.... This [performance] is competitive with the best. Scott Cantrell
Gershwin: Piano Concerto in F; Rhapsody in Blue; Cuban Overture [Hybrid SACD]