Strauss' second opera, Feuersnot, has a libretto that would be considered not only old-fashioned, but politically incorrect today. It has some enjoyable music, but some ponderous passages as well. Nevertheless, any lovers of Strauss should hear it and this recording is a great place to start. Once available on the Gala label and now long out of print, Andy has revived it for a very reasonable price.Bjoner and Cordes are terrific in their rather weird roles, both singing with beautiful tone and a command of the libretto's tricky syntax. The supporting cast is made up of many Munich regulars, all of whom sing and characterize their roles well. Keilberth leads a naturally flowing performance that foreshadows many of Strauss' greater achievements. The sound is warm and atmospheric, the producers attempting to simulate a stage performance with appropriate sound and crowd effects.Anything Strauss wrote is worth hearing and this opera is no exception. You'll need to supply your own libretto (if you can find one), but it's worth the trouble.