French pianist Bertrand Chamayou has the right pedigree for Ravel: he studied with teachers at the Paris Conservatoire, whose lineage goes straight back to the composer, and it shows in the rock-solid technique and unfussy, unwavering interpretations he brings to this collection. There’s a confident swagger to the virtuosity of Valses Nobles et Sentimentales, and Chamayou articulates bittersweet melodies such as Pavane pour une Infante Défunte with striking straightforwardness. On the one hand, it’s refreshing to hear Ravel done so firmly, with zero hint of airiness, but the direct touch and staunch tempos end up leaving me a bit cold. Where’s the mystery in Gaspard de la Nuit when every note is so plainly defined? Where’s the majesty in the Sonatine when the cross rhythms are so literal? Mirroirs has more flux and Jeux d’Eau is relatively gentle, but it all feels fairly safe, measurable and sensible.
