On the original release of this disc Classic CD wrote, 'this CD is welcome as an introduction, not only to The Gambler but to the even rarer Semyon Kotko'. The Calgary Herald noted, 'At last we have an incisive modern recording of the Four Portraits, a substantial reworking of music from Prokofiev's opera The Gambler... the Semyon Kotko Suite is striking in its abundant lyricism'. Exhilarating and inventive, Prokofiev's Four Portraits enshrine the best of the opera. Memorable melodies and rich orchestration abound in both these rarely heard suites which will appeal to anyone interested in Prokofiev's lesser-known works. The recordings now return to make a welcome addition to the Chandos Classics label