Enrique Granados, variously described as ‘the Spanish Chopin’ and ‘the last Romantic’, is universally recognised as one of Spain’s most important composers, with music that is multifaceted, although it is essentially Romantic with some nationalistic characteristics. Featuring several world première recordings, this eighth disc in Douglas Riva’s survey of the complete Granados piano music, draws together works from Granados’ youth. Engaging student-imitations of the styles of Chopin, Beethoven and Wagner contrast with works of passion and melancholy, showing a young composer focusing on his own personal inspirations and exploring themes of nature and varied emotions, yet hinting at the direction of later compositions.