eMusic Review 0
Spectacular. Another recording with Dame Joan that made Pavarotti's reputation, but one that is so great in no small part to Pavarotti singing the part of Il Duca di Mantova, not only in partnership with Sutherland as Gilda but the great Sherrill Milnes as the hunchbacked jester, the greatest Verdi role for this great Verdi singer. Pavarotti's voice is bursting with youth, it seems to have a life of its own, and the pure freshness and energy is perfect for the blithe, self-involved Duke. The character is a more than a bit of a fool, but Pavarotti gives us so much to enjoy about him, and sympathize with, and the contrast between him and Milnes powerfully dark, angry Rigoletto makes this tragedy live. Sutherland again is believable as a young woman, a girl really, through her musical artistry, but it is Pavarotti who threatens to steal the show. As he sings about women in "Della mia bella incognita borghese" and "La donna è mobile," we can hear exactly how he infuriates Rigoletto; we understand the hunchback's terrible fury. The characters come to life on this recording in a palpable, gripping way. Impeccable music making from Richard Bonynge and the London… read more »
