Search - Giacomo Puccini, Erich Leinsdorf, Rome Opera Orchestra :: Puccini: La Bohème [Hybrid SACD]

Disappointing compared to LP

E. Wright | 10/29/2007

(3 out of 5 stars)

"I'm new to this wonderful medium, but am finding that as with any other, some recordings or transfers are better than others.

I compared this to my LPs, which are the lousy-looking "floppies" from the 1970s, and expected the SACD version to trounce it. Unfortunately, Moffo is a bit shrill and Tucker a bit boomy on SACD. The vinyl has a natural ease to it, making the performance an incredible experience. Ms. Moffo on vinyl is delightfully delicate, and Mr. Tucker emotionally gripping, without the sound crossing over into the harshness of the SACD version.

Too bad - I had high hopes!"

A reminder of the lovely Moffo, surrounded by a good-enough

Santa Fe Listener | Santa Fe, NM USA | 02/19/2008

(3 out of 5 stars)

"For anyone old enough to cringe at the mention of tenor Richard Tucker, whose bawling and sobbing ruined more than a few prime operas from the Fifties and Sixties (e.g., EMI's Aida and Forza del Destino with Callas) or who long ago wrote off the stiff, cold conducting of Erich Leinsdorf, this 1961 La Boheme brings a few rays of sunshine. The Gramophone called it adorable, and at the very least Tucker dials down his overacting and Leinsdorf does professional work. He only goes dead in the water fifty percent of the time, which is twice as good as his norm. But let's be honest -- the only attraction here is the beloved Anna Moffo, a visual beauty whose dark but appealing voice gave out too soon.



Mimi fits her voice perfectly, and she really does come in a close second to Freni for pathos and touching naturalness. Robert Merrill also deserves praise for his Marcello, gorgeous of tone if a bit lacking in Italiante believability. What this Boheme amounts to is a memento of a very good night at the Met circa 1960, and for that reason alone -- and for Moffo -- I can see why fans will be attracted."

Amazing disc!

Jeremy123 | USA | 12/14/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"What a great performance! Also, the sound on this disc set is just exploded from loudspeakers with utmost realism and transparency. If you have a SACD player with 3-channel stereo set up you will definitely feel like you are inside the Rome Opera House. The conventional 2-channel stereo version is amazing as well in its own right. Highly recommended in every way."