Search - Domenico Trimarchi, Jose Padilla, Ernesto de Curtis :: The Best of José Carerras (The Millenium Collection)

CARRERAS

Barbara J. Rebillot | CAMPBELL CA USA | 07/08/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"THIS CD IS A MUST HAVE FOR CARRERAS FANS.EXCELLENT CHOICE OF SONGS.I PARTICULARLY LIKED "VALENCIA" WHICH I HADN'T SEEN ON ANY OTHER CD'S OF HIS."

Nice collection of works by Jose Carreras

Steven A. Peterson | Hershey, PA (Born in Kewanee, IL) | 11/23/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"For those who might not recall, Jose Carreras is one of the "Three Tenors," with Luciano Pavarotti and Placido Domingo. This CD provides a sampling of some of his opera singing--but even more of his singing of popular tunes. A few examples follow:



"Valencia" is a well known tune, and Carreras sings it with aplomb. He sings at a sprightly pace, giving the listener a spirited version. His rich, full voice is attractive to listen to. That voice comes close to overwhelming this song, but, in the end, this is a most enjoyable cut. Then there is another "golden oldie," "Funiculi Funicula." This is a real romp, as Carreras sings this with apparent enjoyment. The song is taken at a quick pace, as appropriate. Again, bravo Carreras.



Two opera arias are worth noting. "Che gelida manina" from Puccini's "La Boheme" is nicely sung. His voice fits the role and aria well. The high note at the words "la speranza" is attractive. Some minor affectations show up in this work, but they don't detract from the satisfying result. Then, one of the twin arias from Verdi's "Tosca," "Recondita armonia." The singer handles this aria well and shows off a wonderful vocal instrument.



Finally, a song by Rossini--"La danza." This is a rip roaringly fun piece to listen to. Carreras handles the rapid pace well (I once recall hearing the great Enrico Caruso lose his breath at one point in this piece), appears to be enjoying himself a lot, and sings with great spirit. A terrific version!



This provides one interesting sampling of Carreras' body of work. I wish that there would have been a bit more representation from his operatic repertoire, but, in the end, this is an enjoyable CD that illustrates Carreras' talents nicely.

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