In the liner notes for her second album -- Liszt Recital -- pianist Polina Leschenko makes the accurate claim that there are two very distinct sides to composer Franz Liszt. Many may conjure up the image of Liszt the virtuoso most readily, but those more familiar with his body of works recognize the deeply spiritual and intimate side to his works. As for Liszt the virtuoso, Leschenko certainly has the technique necessary to pull off even the most demanding and intricate technical passages with seeming ease. She possesses an almost inhuman control over dynamics, which she uses to great effect. The more intimate, musical aspects of Liszt's music are a different story. Here, Leschenko seems rather lost. Rubato comes across as extremely calculated and mechanical, as do transitions between multiple sections found in the B minor Sonata. Her sound, which is generally adequate, is almost too well preserved on this SACD as there are frequent unidentifiable thumps to which the listener is also subjected. Although this album is entitled Liszt Recital, Leschenko curiously includes the Busoni transcription of the Bach D minor Chaconne; her argument for its inclusion is dubious at best, and her performance of it is the driest, most metronomic selection on the album. Regrettably, this CD is another example of how pure technique doesn't get you very far anymore; hopefully Leschenko's musicality will develop as her career progresses.