Massenet: Werther
This newest foray into the world of complete operas (rather than arias) by tenor superstar Andrea Bocelli will delight his loyal fans. The voice remains quite beautiful, and he inhabits the role of the self-pitying, sensitive poet Werther with passion and excellent attention to the text, singing with a fine plangency. But those who have heard Carreras, Kraus, Alagna or Georges Thill and understand just how heroically much of the role should be sung will find Bocelli's thin tone and notable strain above the staff a definite drawback. Despite some harsh tones, Russian mezzo Julia Gertseva as Charlotte has the makings of an important singer, but Frederica von Stade, Angela Gheorghiu, Victoria de los Angeles, and others sing rings around her. Natale de Carolis's Albert is authoritative, and the rest of the cast is quite good. Yves Abel's leasdership is sympathetic and warm and the recording, unlike Bocelli's previous operatic ones, does not seem to boost the tenor's sound. Buy theCarreras/von Staderecording--it's magnificent. All-encompassing Bocelli fans can stop here and be pleased.--Robert LevineIf You Enjoy This, Here Are Some More Suggestions To TryLa BohemeLa TraviataToscaGounod and Massenet AriasBach CantatasHandel Arias