Anne Sofie von Otter - Folksongs (Dvorak, Kodaly, Britten, Grainger, Larsson, Hahn)
Mezzo-sopranoAnne Sofie von Ottera folkie? Most  definitely: she and Bengt Forsberg have been sold on folksong in its various  manifestations for years. But anyone with scruples about the  brown-rice-and-sandals approach to such music need have no fears. This is quite  simply a ravishing collection, with enough musical merit to satisfy the most  hardhearted skeptic. Having said that, the term "folksong" here is loosely  applied. The pieces by Dvorák, Larsson, and Reynaldo Hahn are inspired by  folk music instead of arrangements. No matter--this is such a clever selection,  embracing warm and winning Dvorák; bittersweet, wistful Grainger;  passionate, romantic Reynaldo Hahn; and earthy Kodály (closest to  authentic folksong) and Britten arrangements with all of the familiar  inventiveness. In addition, there are attractive songs from Otter's compatriots  Lars-Erik Larsson and Gunnar Hahn. As ever, Otter's singing displays much  freshness, intelligence, and poise, as well as identification with every mood  (the range is staggering for a "mere" folksong album). What's more, she  encompasses six languages with ease (plus a rustic British accent in the  Grainger that sounds uncannily natural). Forsberg's playing is a delight--the  whole thing is a delight. Don't deprive your CD player of a treat.--Andrew  Green