Search - Donizetti, Lapeyrette, Albers :: La Favorite

An important release: it's the first recorded Favorite, waxed in 1912; the only one available in the original French version; a splendid example of French vocal style before it dissolved in today's melting pot of international vocalism; and an enjoyable listening experience to boot. Albers's firm baritone is a delight, Lapeyrette and Lasalle are fine, and Ruhmann keeps things moving along. Best of all, it's a rare opportunity to hear the way Donizetti bends Parisian Grand Opera conventions to his Italianite melodic style. There's the added shock (a pleasant one) of hearing familiar favorites like "Spirito gentil" in their original form (here, "Ange si pur"). Marston has done its usual superb job of bringing fresh life to ancient 78s. --Dan Davis