I had heard this recording before when it was issued on the Chandos label for the Opera in English series about two decades ago. I thought then and still think this is a very moving performance of one of Massenet's masterpieces. The English translation allows the listener to be drawn into the story much more quickly than if one were following a French text with corresponding translation. Baker is simply terrific as Charlotte and Brecknock demonstrates again what a fine, underrated singer he was. Joy Roberts has one of those crystal clear English sopranos, steady and even from top to bottom; she is a delight as the younger sister Sophie. Patrick Wheatley is a loving, yet sinister Albert. The diction from everyone is superb. Mackerras conducts masterfully (I don't think he ever conducted anything badly) and he gives us the entire work with none of the cuts so often imposed on this score. Mark (below) insists the recording is a quarter step too high, yet everyone sounds like themselves without sounding shrill or overwrought. I thought the sound excellent. The Chandos may well be better (I don't have it on hand for comparison), but I don't think anyone will feel cheated by what Opera Depot gives us.Highly recommended!

Compared to the release of the same performance in much better sound on Chandos, this release is pitched nearly a quarter-step too high and the resulting sound is tinny. Also, one could have merely looked at the CD booklet of the Chandos release to find the track identification instead of writing "Act 1" etc. for several tracks. Lazy presentation and disappointing engineering of a fantastic performance, one of the best of this opera. Try to find the Chandos release instead.

This CD was bought for Dame Janet. According to my opinion she belongs to the greatest artists for ever. And of course she is fantastic as Charlotte. Her personality is ideal for this role and she sings beautiful with full passion. The big surprise for me is John Brecknock in the title role. This total unknown singer is almost perfect like Werther.All the further voices are very good and the English language is also acceptable. British conductors have generally a very big affection into French music, this is valid also for Sir Charles Mackerras. He leads a very authentic performance. If you like this opera don't miss out this CD.

...and I bet that few people know that one of the little boys in the children's chorus was IAN BOSTRIDGE!