In some ways, it might be more difficult to play Bach on the piano than on the harpsichord. One doesn't always find pianists giving convincing interpretations of Bach that seem to stand the test of time. They need to good fingers, great intellect, an intuitive sense of rhythm, clear and clean sound production, a style suited to the music of Bach, and an awareness of the grand musical structure in his music. They also need the greatest sensitivity for harmonies and colors. Martha Argerich has many of these qualities. In her Bach, there is a unique intensity and drama. She creates powerful and vivid characterization and impressions with great economy. Ineffable and dramatic moments seem sometimes produced by no more than the slightest shading or the subtlest rubato. The secret may lie in the concentration. This is music making that has the potential to challenge one's mind. It might give an impression that Argerich had a fastidious and serious attitude when playing Bach, but her playing at the same time has a feeling of effortlessness and naturalness also - I found. It was my impression that her performance of Bach here achieved a relatively degree of simplicity. If I remember correctly, Chopin might have said that simplicity is the "final seal of art(s)"?
The length of this recording is not the longest (50'16)- one of the shorter ones in DG's "The Originals" legendary recordings series. However, Argerich also recorded the Bach Cello Sonatas with Mischa Maisky (also by DG). Years ago, I found myself listening to these two CD's quite often. They could be stimulating when I listened to them intently, but they proved to be a soothing companion for my book reading at times.