For most, this recording will be valued for Domingo's performance; they will not be disappointed. In other respects, it is likely to be found wanting. Abbado's conducting, like the production, is conventional and offers no special insight. Chorus, orchestra and most of the other soloists are acceptable though with occasional lapses. Ricciarelli is overmatched by the rôle, offering too little weight throughout and suggesting rather than singing the lower notes. Cappuccilli is unrelentingly forceful. In contrast, Grist and the unnamed conspirators are admirable; Ulrica is unnamed but is marginal in voice and drama. Video is generally acceptable, though the dark staging makes much of it murky. Sound is compressed and shows its age. Packaging is consistent with Kultur's minimalist approach. Subtitles are few and intrusive; they cannot be turned off. One can only wish that a better recording of Domingo's Riccardo/Gustavo (the production is a frustrating mix of Boston and Sweden) were available since his is an admirable portrayal.
|
|||||
