Search - Giacomo Puccini, Colin Davis, Royal Opera House Covent Garden Orchestra :: Puccini: La Bohème

An often overlooked gem of a "Boheme"

daniel0302 | New York, NY United States | 09/07/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

""La Boheme" has been lucky in the studio, and there are many fine options on the market. This gentle performance will not likely sway the fans of the Beecham (EMI) or Karajan (DECCA) recordings, but it more than stands on its own merits. For some fans of Puccini's score, this is the ultimate version, yet it maintains a sort of "dark horse" status. Katia Ricciarelli - captured towards the end of her all too brief prime estate - is extraordinary. Her singing is full of character, beautiful tone, and seamless legato. This is truly one of her finest recorded performances, and, in spite of what her critics say, comparisons with other great interpreters of the role are far from odious. It is also one of Jose Carreras' finest recorded performances. Recorded when he was not yet thirty, this ranks with the finest recordings of Rodolfo. The role suits him perfectly, both in temperament and vocalism. Ashley Putnam makes a lovely Musetta. The well sung "Quando men vo" is a little tame and polite - as if Musetta were having tea at Café Momus - but Putnam possesses a lovely, bright sparkle that nicely differentiates her voice from Ricciarelli's in the ensembles. In both Act 3 and Act 4, Putnam creates a very strong characterization as well. Ingvar Wixell and Robert Lloyd both contribute good performances despite not being especially Italianate singers. Haken Hagegard's singing makes him one of the only truly memorable Schaunards on record, turning out the lines of this supporting role with a lieder singer's care. Davis has a natural, sympathetic feel for this music and leads an exciting performance while maintaining an unobtrusive hand. The original CD release packaging was lovely, and this release has no libretto or biographies of those involved, but at this budget price, it is a huge value."

Beautiful

daniel0302 | 02/07/1999

(5 out of 5 stars)

"A Cramophone critic, while beginning with a praising, focuses on downgrading this set for being "too" beautiful?! Well, we opera fans can only wish all recordings would have this "problem." This opera was meant to be beautiful; it's not Wozzeck, you know. THAT's a "sheer wrenching expression". La Boheme is a good first opera to be introduced to for a newcomer. And this set captures all the principals in their sparkling prime. Ricciarelli and Carreras were an example of what the Puccini characters are supposed to look and sound like: young, beautiful, ardent and romantic. The "comic relief" pair is nicely done here by Wixell and Putnam. Putnam is one of the best Musettas ever: there is none of the common annoying "touch-ups" to her character. Robert Lloyd sings gorgeously. The conducting is everything we've come to expect from Sir Davis: smooth even tempos and elegant style. La Boheme was recorded so many times and by so many wonderful artists, one could easily get overwhelmed. There's an all-important historic Sayao/Tucker collaboration dating back to '48, the fantastic Freni/Pavarotti/Karajan all-star cast, the charm of Caballe and Domingo, and the new Alagna/Gheorghiu real-life couple in love, to name a few. But don't miss this one: it is unique and superb, and is sure to win its rightful place in any good opera collection. Try to get the Philips original packaging, though, instead of the cheap DUO series release."

A perfect La Boheme

daniel0302 | 07/27/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"The editorial review states that this was one of the last recordings Carreras made before his illness. This recording was made in 1979 and he became ill in the late 80s. Also, he was only in his twenties in the 1970s and beginning his career. Another odd comment is that Ingvar Wixell sings the part of the painter, Rodolfo, but as we all know, the painter is Marcello. Having said that, this is an exquisite La Boheme. Ricciarelli and Carreras are sublime and fit their roles perfectly, both vocally and physically."