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GLUCK: PARIDE ED ELENA  Soloists: Magdalena Kozena, Susan Gritton. Gabrielli Consort & Players. Paul McCreesh Archiv  *****

Gluck's opera on the legend of Troy is not well-known, possibly on account of its small scale and relative stage inactivity. However, when it receives a performance as enthusiastic and committed as this, the lyrical beauty and intensity of the score become obvious, making one wonder at its relative neglect over the years. This recording was made with a cast who staged an acclaimed concert performance of the work in London in 2003, and their passion and involvement in the music is apparent right from the first notes of the overture. Magdalena Kozena is vocally agile and dramatically expressive as Paride, with the other soloists equally committed and intuitive in their roles. Conductor, orchestra and chorus drive on the work with a dramatic intensity, making for a memorable recording of this marvellous score. www.universalclassics.com

Colman Morrissey