Jussi Bjorling Edition (Studio Recordings, 1930-1959)
This set tells you why Jussi Bjorling is a perennial entrant in the "Tenor  of the Century" sweepstakes. Even as the voice darkens from the light lyric to the  full, darker instrument of the later recordings, we hear a singer whose elegant style,  lovely timbre and innate musicality touch the heart. Many of the selections are sung in  Swedish, less of a liability than you might suppose. In whatever language, Bjorling's  molten gold flows lavishly. He eschews the sobs and sentimentality that disfigure so  much verismo repertory, making his points with stylish vocalism. He's been called a  "cool" singer, but try his Puccini and Verdi arias on Disc One and you'll find  more than enough vocal and emotional heat. The selections include many neglected  Scandinavian songs, sung, like the arias, with a naturalness that disarms criticism.-- Dan Davis