Andreas Scholl - Heroes / Norrington
The gods of musical commerce are smiling on hot young countertenor Andreas Scholl: this is his second CD of opera arias to appear in less than a month.  The previous disc, a selection ofHandel ariason Harmonia Mundi, showcased Scholl's considerable strengths: subtle and sensitive phrasing, deft coloratura, and a pure, rounded tone with little of the disembodied hootiness that used to be accepted from countertenors.  His first recital disc for Decca gives us a wider range of music (Hasse, Gluck, and Mozart as well as Handel) and a more complete representation of Scholl's singing--vices as well as virtues.  Among the former are his top notes (sometimes squealy or poorly tuned) and aJoan Sutherland-like combination of beautiful sound with indistinct diction and lack of temperament.  This is particularly damaging in the laments fromRodelindaandGiulio Cesare, which come across as mere pleasant pastorales; the famous "Che farò?" from Gluck'sOrfeo ed Euridicesounds self-satisfied rather than bereft.  (To be fair, Roger Norrington's jaunty tempos deserve much of the blame for this.)  Scholl also aspirates his coloratura, which will bother some listeners more than others.  On the other hand, "Oh, Lord, whose mercies numberless" from Handel'sSaulis radiant, and the two arias from early Mozart operas are thrilling.  In the end, the disc gives a fair, well-rounded picture of an important young singer.  Speaking of pictures, by the way, Decca's photographer deserves plaudits for making this tall, somewhat gawky German withNana Mouskouriglasses look almost glamorous.--Matthew Westphal