Juan Diego Florez ~ Rossini Arias
This disc by the rising young Peruvian tenorJuan Diego Flórezis a winner. He has a light lyric tenor of quality, stunning coloratura technique, and a real feeling for the Rossini style. He shines in these bravura arias, scattering high Cs and Ds with abandon. There aren't many tenors these days who can fearlessly negotiate the perils of arias like "Cessa di piu resistere" fromThe Barber of Sevillewith such aplomb. Nor are there many who can capture both the pathos and the fevered intensity of "Oh fiamma souave" fromLa donna del lago. Even those who might wish for a warmer, sweeter sound in the bel canto repertory than Flórez's brighter, more brilliant tones should welcome this auspicious solo debut. He's helped by the sure hand of Riccardo Chailly at the helm, ensuring stylistically sympathetic performances.--Dan Davis