Favorite Fauré Barcarolle

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I recently got into Fauré's piano works, and they're absolutely magnificent. I was aware of the existence of some of his larger pieces including the Requiem and some more standard piano pieces like the Capriccio from the Pieces Breves, but recently I also really enjoyed working through all the Barcarolles and some of the Nocturnes. These Barcarolles are, at least right now, the kinds of pieces that get better with every listen. First I heard the incipits, which were quite tasteful but slow-moving. But this is also part of the reason I love the Schubert sonatas so much, so that could wait. I started from the beginning while doing math homework, and while the great length did hold true, there were some chromatically interesting moments, including the opening of the 8th barcarolle. Fauré in general feels really good at basic suspensions and chromaticism, and uses them to his advantage with these well-crafted pieces. In terms of form, they all seem to follow a similar ternary structure and rhythm, but the Barcarolle rhythm is quite attractive and the structure isn't complicated. So, although Fauré insisted on not making the forms distinct in terms of naming conventions, they all do have an obvious Barcarolle feel and I'm glad the distinction was made.

As for my favorite right now, I'd go with the 3rd. I just like the opening feel that was salon-like, but it got time to expand and open up into gorgeous, luscious waters. Also, I just love the first several bars lol.

Some of the pieces I listened to that I don't get too well yet are the 9th and 10th barcarolles, because they are far too slow and not as melodic as the other more playful ones. And I didn't really know what to think of the Nocturnes, because I have a feeling that these are more complex pieces where I might find quality in their chord progressions and farther expansiveness. I hope to analyze some of the nocturnes soon, and maybe this might change, but I did really enjoy the 12th nocturne. I also enjoyed the Dolly Suite and some of the impromptus. Hamelin's new album is my reference recording right now because I'm not gonna lie, it has a cool cover, and his playing is direct and delicate. Also, he talks quite personably about the music, so it gives additional context.

What about you guys? Favorite Barcarolle? Favorite recordings? Easiest/hardest? Any insight would be helpful, and if you haven't already, they're lovely pieces that you absolutely should discover! I would recommend starting with 1, 2, 3, 4, then skip to 11, 12, and 13.