What if I do purchase it and don't find the performances as compelling as the promotion? It's happened before: high praise given to something that wasn't worth it to begin with. High expectations only to be struck with disappointment.
The greater the explicit praise, the less genuine the actual product. I'll easily pass on this and won't give it a second thought. But I'll give it a second thought just for fun.
Notice that no one has mentioned anything specific about the quality of the musicianship. The most tangible expression expressed is of the pianist's pianism. Pianism doesn't make music, it just makes a piano function.
When discussing the worth of a recording, it is essential to discuss the purpose. Id est: The music. Does the performer interpret the music in a manner that is the most effective at representing the ideas? Does it feel complete or are certain qualities left unfulfilled? Do the performances age well with repeated listening? Etc.
Instead: Let's review some quotes:
yes, the playing is great
i agree everything he touches is amazing i got the CD too
Well,it is a 2-CD set, so it's not that expensive, not to mention he is one of the best pianists I've seen in a long time! He has jaw-dropping technique and power.
His playing is explosive and is rich in in just about every musical aspect you could imagine.
With remarks such as these, how can one not think it didn't come from the press?