Even with the imperfect sound, Vishnevskaya's performance makes it clear why she was such a sensation. Her voice is ideally suited to the role: gleaming and large, yet free of any harshness. She delivers the softer, lyrical moments with remarkable refinement and the spinto outbursts with a thrilling generosity of tone (one can't help but pity her onstage child, Sorrow, whose ears must have been ringing after this performance). Although she sings the role in Russian, Vishnevskaya exhibits an innate understanding of the Italian style.

She is joined by a young Jaime Aragall as Pinkerton. Aragall is in top form, delivering a brash, swaggering performance in Act I and a deeply moving portrayal of regret in the final act. Vicente Sardinero also stands out with an excellent interpretation of Sharpless. Despite its flaws, this recording is a testament to the artistry of an exceptional cast.