Amazon.comAny Mozart and Strauss specialist in the 1950s and '60s had to deal with the long shadow of Elisabeth Schwarzkopf, but the gentler and more genial Lisa Della Casa was nonetheless beloved, particularly in cities where Schwarzkopf wasn't welcome. Sadly, she didn't have a great recording career, which is why this recently rediscovered live recital--with Schubert, Brahms, Ravel and Strauss songs--is so welcome. The voice is spring-water fresh, the sense of taste exquisite. While Schwarzkopf challenged you to better understand the music, the captivating Della Casa simply asks you to enjoy it. --David Patrick Stearns