Search - Liszt, Obermeyer, De'Ath :: Songs of Love & Longing

Lukewarm to Liszt?

Dean Miller | Arlington, VA | 03/01/2001

(4 out of 5 stars)

"To those who say they don't like Liszt or rank him with "second-rate" composers, this disc should be a revelation. For lovers of this well-known but underappreciated master there are opportunities to hear some old favorites but also to discover new treasures. Janet Obermeyer is one such treasure. Her silvery soprano gives this listener shivers when she effortlessly floats high notes such as those that end "Die Loreley" and "O quand je dors." Only once or twice in fortissimo passages does one hear any hint of forced tone production. Leslie De'Ath is a competent accompanist who lets the singer shine, but seems just a bit timid at times. The songs are, for the most part, well chosen to showcase Liszt's mastery of the form. The three Fallersleben songs are among the jewels which were previously unknown to this listener. With its judicious selection and fine performances this recording should help to promote the view that Liszt can hold his own with the other great composers of lieder and mélodies."