It's astonishing that even after decades of exploring opera, you can still encounter a masterpiece that opens up an entirely new sonic world. That was my experience a few days ago when I first heard Montemezzi's L'Amore dei tre re. Initially successful at its premiere, this opera has sadly fallen into obscurity.

This performance features Virginia Zeani alongside her real-life husband, Nicola Rossi-Lemeni. While Rossi-Lemeni's bass voice may not have the booming resonance of Boris Christoff, he brings a regal and refined dignity to the role. Virginia Zeani, meanwhile, is absolutely sublime as Fiora.

As a special bonus, this recording includes the world premiere—and only available recording—of Montemezzi's short opera L'Incantesimo, conducted by the composer in 1943. It reveals an imaginative and captivating musical palette.