Antoinetta Stella passed away earlier this year at the age of 92. She happened to come along (1950s-60s) when there was a plethora of good sopranos who sang her repertoire, many of whom got the studio recordings (Callas, Tebaldi, Scotto among others). That's why it's such a boon to have these live performances to show us how good she was. Opera Depot already has an excellent Butterfly with her from seven years earlier (OD 10025) in relatively good sound with some distinguished colleagues, but it's great to have this one too. She is in marvelous form, her voice throbbing with passion, the top notes thrilling. There is nothing she doesn't know about Cio Cio San. Her habit of sobbing becomes a little tiresome, especially when she still can be heard sobbing after she's supposed to be dead!Barioni is a robust Pinkerton with a good top C at the end of the big duet (he didn't sing it in his 1956 Met broadcast with Albanese). He too would be a bigger star today. The supporting cast is first-rate with Di Stasio as a wonderful Suzuki with great low notes, Carlin a slimy Goro, and Lidonni a sympathetic Sharpless. Foiani is a terrifying Bonzo. Erede leads a tight, dramatic performance.The sound, a few fleeting gurgles aside, is very clear. Highly recommended to all who love Stella and/or this opera in particular.