Most opera lovers don't associate Gre Brouwenstijn with the big Italian roles and yet every one I've heard leaves my jaw on the ground, astonished at her versatility and vocal beauty. I've already written very favorable reviews of her Leonora in Forza and Amelia in Ballo (her Leonora in Trovatore and Elisabetta in Don Carlos are equally fine). Here she is Tosca to the life, singing like a prima donna in the best sense and unafraid of the melodrama (unlike so many of today's divas.) The scream she gives on discovering Mario's death is wonderfully cathartic. The top notes are dead on, the phrasing luxuriant and long-breathed. She takes "Vissi d'arte" quite slowly and makes it work. Mauro sings exceptionally well and with imagination, much more so than he usually did later on. Andy was unimpressed with Jan Derksen, but I think he's a terrific Scarpia. The voice is to die for and he too embraces the drama without going overboard. He and Brouwenstijn crackle in the second act. The supporting cast is just as good as the principals. Benzi's tempi are a little slow, but he leads an exciting, well-rehearsed performance. The stereo broadcast sound is first-rate, another case of the Pirate Gods smiling benevolently on the enterprise.The bonus Ballo arias will make you want to get the entire performance available from Opera Depot as well - you should!