Gavriel Lipkind - J. S. Bach: Cello Suites (2006) [SACD]

To say the least, cellist Gavriel Lipkind has some interesting ideas concerning Bach's cello suites. In his thoughtful notes to this lushly packaged 2006 recording of the suites, Lipkind discusses historical performance practice and secret spiritual programs with equal parts erudition and success. But far more interesting are Lipkind's performances. His tempos are not always what one has come to expect: his slows are heavier, his fasts are lighter, and his dances always stay on point. His articulation is not always what one has come to expect, either: his phrasing is sometimes smoother, sometimes rougher, and always individualistic. But most interesting of all are his frequent embellishments, ranging from accents to appoggiaturas to whole interpolated lines. All these points are certainly debatable by scholars and critics, but Lipkind's artistry in carrying them out is persuasive. Seemingly imbued with the spirit of the composer and certainly suffused with the soul of the music, Lipkind's performances appear to be improvised, almost composed on the spot -- and all the more affecting for it. Recorded in rich, clear sound by producer Christoph Classen, these performances demand to be heard by anyone who loves the music. -- James Leonard