Some Toscas emphasize the character's vulnerability, others her passion or resilience. Gwyneth Jones, however, leans into fury—and the result is electrifying. It's no surprise that one of the 20th century's foremost Brünnhildes would deliver a Tosca of unusual power and defiance, but even so, her presence here is formidable. So much so that Kostas Paskalis's darkly persuasive Scarpia, well sung though it is, never quite holds the upper hand.

This Tosca is matched by a thrillingly impassioned Mario, with Plácido Domingo bringing vocal strength and lyrical intensity to their scenes together. The sheer vocal force of Jones and Domingo in their love duets is enough to reignite even the most seasoned ears. Edward Downes conducts the forces of Covent Garden with flair and momentum, making this 1972 performance pulse with theatrical life.