This is a lively, dramatic performance of Carmen that utilizes much of the then (1973) new Oeser edition and also most of the original spoken dialogue. It's interesting to compare how Solti and company revised the edition they used when they recorded the opera in the studio a couple of years later. Overall the studio recording benefited from the conductor seeing what worked and didn't work on stage and is a much more cogent edition. As almost always though the stage performance is much more immediate and exciting. For whatever reason, Verrett didn't return to make the studio recording of one of her best roles (Troyanos took her place), but we have this marvelous recording of the broadcast. Few can match her sheer vocal opulence and musicianship. The wild laugh that she liked to use in this role (and others) is under control here . When she tells Jose that she is the devil, you believe her! It's so easy to take Domingo for granted and he too is exceptional in this, one of his best roles. Te Kanawa sounds like an angel with gumption. Her big aria is superb. Van Dam rolls out that elegant bass-baritone of his and is incredibly macho and sexy. A young Thomas Allen is heard to great effect as Morales and Teresa Cahill handles Frasquita's top line beautifully. All the other singers are great too.The Pirate Gods blessed this recording with sound that is excellent broadcast stereo. This is a Carmen for everyone!