Víkingur Ólafsson's debut album, released in 2009, is a captivating journey through the realms of classical piano, showcasing the artist's exceptional talent and deep musical insight. The album, spanning a little over an hour, features a diverse range of pieces that highlight Ólafsson's versatility and technical prowess.
The album opens with a series of seven fantasies from Op. 116, each piece a unique blend of capriccio and intermezzo styles, demonstrating Ólafsson's ability to navigate complex compositions with ease. Following this, the album delves into a collection of waltzes from Op. 39, each one a delightful exploration of different keys and moods, from the bright and cheerful to the dark and introspective.
The album concludes with the Variations Op. 35 'Eroica', a monumental work that showcases Ólafsson's ability to handle intricate variations and a grand finale. Throughout the album, Ólafsson's playing is marked by a sense of clarity and precision, as well as a deep understanding of the music's structure and meaning. This debut album is a testament to Ólafsson's artistry and a promising start to his career.