This spectacular performance of The Rake's Progress from the Wiener Staatsoper offers a vivid and musically assured take on Stravinsky's neoclassical masterpiece.

Waldemar Kmentt makes an ideal Tom Rakewell, his lyric exuberance balanced by a surprising vocal weight that serves the role's dramatic arc beautifully. Anneliese Rothenberger is a ravishing Anne, singing with warmth, poise, and crystalline tone. Though not a true bass, Eberhard Wächter brings a dashing and sinister edge to Nick Shadow, giving the role the same charismatic menace he brought to roles like Don Giovanni.

Additional highlights include Vera Little, who delivers a vibrant and memorable Baba the Turk, and Hilde Konetzni as a spirited and earthy Mother Goose.