Three masters of 20th-century music represented through cello-piano works, performed by cellist Steven Isserlis and pianist Olli Mustonen in 1996 on RCA Red Seal. Janáček's Pohádka enchants with narrative quality and lyrical directness, existing in two versions here. Shostakovich's Sonata is darker, more introspective—emotionally wrenching music refusing easy answers. Prokofiev's Sonata brings neoclassical wit and formal clarity alongside genuine expressiveness. Isserlis brings warmth and generous tone to all three composers while Mustonen's keyboard work ranges from delicate accompaniment to vigorous intellectual exchange. Together they illuminate how the cello-piano duo could serve radically different compositional voices. The recording is immediate and clear, letting every detail breathe. Essential for chamber music lovers.