"Who knows what wonderful recordings of this oft-recorded opera will be made in the next millenium? Perhaps there will be a version which surpasses Giulini's, Bohm's, Davis's, or Solti's. Until then, Daniel Barenboim's version of "Figaro" is the latest great recording, and my second favorite, after Bohm's heavenly version. I haven't heard Claudio Abbado's, which also includes Cecilia Bartoli as Cherubino, and is the more famous of the two versions in which the glorious mezzo has appeared, but, in spite of having lesser known names, Barenboim's cast is quite stunning. Lella Cuberli has a beautiful voice in the role of the Countess, and Joan Rodgers is a nimble and lyrical Susanna. Tomlinson is a more comic Figaro than I've heard on other recordings, but his personality makes the proceedings glow. The Count is more laid back than is usual, but this gives him a certain dignity which is often lost on the fuming, stomping "Signor Contino." All of the other singers are strong as well, especially Basilio, whose Act IV aria is truly a highlight. The ensembles tightly propel forward in that miraculous Barenboim manner, and the playing of the Berlin Philharmonic is nothing less than spectacular--not as detailed as their playing with Bohm, but more spirited and stylish. All in all, Barenboim's "Figaro" combines a unique personality with a strong adherence to the music. I haven't heard any praises of this version from the critics (it's not mentioned in the Penguin Guide), but I recommend this set as the finest digital recording of the opera I have heard so far."