Description:

The shortage of true Verdi voices today has made performances of La Forza del Destino increasingly rare. This recording, however, comes from a time when singers fully equipped for its technical and stylistic demands were plentiful. Anita Cerquetti is captured in her prime, her voice both radiant and silky, negotiating the role’s challenges—particularly in her scene with Guardiano—with effortless command.

A closer listen reveals an impressive performance from Flaviano Labò as Alvaro. I must admit, I had always considered him a house tenor, but this recording proves otherwise—this man knew how to sing. His “O tu che seno agli angeli” showcases a rock-solid technique, delivering not only thrilling high B-flats but also remarkably delicate phrasing through his passaggio.

Meanwhile, Cornell MacNeil is an almost titanic force of nature. His voice is actually darker than Nicola Zaccaria’s, who plays Guardiano. But a bass he is not—at least judging by his high notes, which seem to shake the very foundation of the house. The sound is slightly muffled.

NEW MASTER
– Repitched

In Mono

OD 10532-2