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“From the very beginning, the recording captures the listener with the superb sound quality, which seems to come from the very heart of the orchestra, and combines superbly with the singers. The score takes on a completely new sound: this is already an achievement in the extensive Wagner discography!”
“Gergiev’s interpretation is magnificent and has been thought out to the smallest detail. Sometimes the slow tempi are surprising, but the ensembles are immaculate throughout, and the dramatic movement is always maintained. In complete harmony with this, the brilliant soloists finish off the job: the singers become so immersed in their characters that the complete illusion of action on stage is created. In this sense, Jonas Kaufman’s Siegmund is unsurpassed, as he conveys the majestic heroism of his character with an incredible beautiful and even timbre, expressive phrasing and subtle nuances that have no equal in our times. Anja Kampe’s Sieglinde provides him with a partner who can match him for the emotionality and beauty of her singing. Nina Stemme as Brünnhilde is at her peak, creating an ideal contrast with her thanks to her warm, low register, and rich colors of her middle range. René Pape, who is more lively and sincere than one usually expects from the performer of the part of the ruler of the Gods, gives his Wotan a majestic nobility, combined with a touching humanity. His lofty interpretation and surprisingly intellectual monologues decisively break with the brutality, duplicity and fussiness of “gang leaders” that we see in enormous numbers today. Yekaterina Gubanova confirms her reputation as the best Fricka of our times, and her energy shows itself in the steely sound of her wonderful young voice.”
“This recording undoubtedly holds first place in the modern Wagner discography!”
Francois Leelle
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