Search - George Frederick Handel, Joachim Martini, Lawrence Zazzo :: Handel: Deborah

Deborah is often described as a "pasticcio" piece because Handel plundered many of his previous works for material. Thus the opening of the much-loved Dixit dominus becomes the chorus "See the proud chief" (performed here at a breathlessly exciting pace); the opening of the Coronation Anthem The King Shall Rejoice becomes "The great King of Kings," which closes Part II; and even "La Rejouissance" from the Music for the Royal Fireworks makes an appearance in Part III. Handel's genius is such that with a little editing and tweaking, it all sounds unforced and entirely to the manner born. Joachim Carlos Martini responds to the score's exuberance with lively conducting and upbeat tempi, which give the whole package a young, fresh feel. Also, the fact that this is a live recording adds a frisson to the proceedings. The downside is that the performance space (the Kloster Eberbach) sounds like a large bathroom, and the microphones aren't placed with much sensitivity around the orchestra and soloists. However, countertenor Lawrence Zazzo is in fine form as the noble Barak, and Ewa Wolak is a barnstorming malevolent presence as the boastful Sisera. Unfortunately, the other soloists are variable, and the choir more enthusiastic than accurate. Overall, though, it's a reasonable budget buy. --Warwick Thompson