The Fifth by DS is the perhaps the greatest symphony to come out of the 20th century-bar none. The Cello Concerto is also outstanding especially in the hands of the incredible Yo-Yo Ma.

Here, DS moves more into the socialist/historical/political. As an American, during the Cold War, it was a challenge to seperate the interesting music from the revolting Communist subject matter.

Some speculate that the Tenth by DS is based on a secret and unflattering portrait of Stalin. Its fun to try to figure out these things while only dealing with just the music.

Not the best of DS, or even especially good symphonies, but the 12th (dedicated to Lenin) is worth listening as conductor Bernard Haitink sucks out every morsal of fanfare.

The two Piano Concertos by DS are also of the more youthful, purely musical period.

These two pieces also tap into that sad Russian soul. In his chamber works, DS managed to avoid much of the politics that weighed down his orchestral music.

The 8th String Quartet by DS is featured on this rather eerie, even disturbing compilation.

Unlike DS, Prokofiev was able to express himself in terms that were almost completely free of Soviet politics. These two symphonies are his best.

The piano concertos of SP are also wonderful, especially the First which has that "Age of Steele" sound that SP was noted for.

"Cinderella" is such an under-rated masterpiece that really exemplifies the composers genius.

Prokofiev's flute sonata is one of my favorite chamber works; very playful like a little bird in flight.

The Symphony #3 by AK has everything thrown in but the kitchen sink; including bells, an organ, and exotic tones that conjure images of Central Asia.

A mixed bag that includes two composers from the USSR. The Prokofiev piece is nice, but the Sonata by the nearly extinct name of Dmitry Kabalevsky is also quite good.