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Title: Golden Age Ernani
Review: Ignore all the naysayers who are unlikely to have actually heard this recording anyway. Sutherland is amazing here, and not just for a 60 yr old. The coloratura and trills are all in place and used to expressive effect. This is the art of bel canto, and Ernani is a late bel canto opera, although it is not always approached that way. Her middle register sometimes sounds a little covered, but that is an easy fault to forgive when so much else is so right.Pavarotti is in late prime voice and sings the role heroically, with plenty of squillo. In 1987 he was still very much at the top of his game. Nucci is near his peak also, singing with passion and that gorgeous burnished baritone sound of his. Burchaladze completes the cast, making much of a smallish role and letting his rich bass ring out admirably. Bonynge conducts an exciting performance, and the digital recording is flawless.Highly recommended.
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