Siberia has been enjoying a bit of a renaissance in the last couple of years. Sonya Yoncheva and Francesca Scaini have both starred in productions that have been issued on DVD/Blu-ray. Luisa Maragliano was better known as a Verdi soprano back in the 60s and 70s, but she was game for the occasional verismo role. Her ardent singing, aided by a strong top, is very convincing as Stefana, the heroine of this opera, Giordano's favorite among his works Amadeo Zambon is equally good as the peasant/soldier Vasilli who falls for Stefana. His squillo-filled high notes are exactly what are lacking in tenors who sing this repertoire today. Walter Monachesi is excellent as the slimy Glebi as is Plinio Clabassi in the small, important role of the Prison Governor. Danino Belardinelli leads an exciting performance of a fast-paced score (events move very quickly in a Giordano opera!).The sound is very good mono. The Bongiovanni label issued this same performance in excellent stereo sound, but for twice the price. It also comes with a libretto and translation which you're going to need to keep track of what is going on. Fortunately, there's also an Italian/English libretto available online.Verismo lovers will really enjoy this opera, especially if you're partial to Giordano.