I agree with Eric below that this is a very well sung performance by a cast of capable, excellent singers who all sound like they're having a good time. Picchi was one of the few Italian tenors of his time who was willing to sing contemporary music (Stravinsky's opera was only seven years old when this was recorded). Sciutti proves here that she could sing a lot more besides the Mozart "ina" roles, and Rehfuss confirms his reputation as a fine musician and singer. Gardiner was usually cast in smaller roles, but she is funny Babba who resists going over the top into camp. Sanzogno gives us the entire score in a fluid,well-paced performance. The basic sound is very good, BUT the ghosting of the other performance in the background is annoying and spoils the quieter moments in the score (I distinctly hear Der Rosenkavalier in the last act). I'm glad Andy and Opera Depot published this all the same; the actual performance is worthwhile.

This is an exquisite performance of Stravinsky's rarefied opera, and the only one of many I've heard to make me fall in love with this score. Sanzogno's conducting is the key, flowing with classical grace that allows the emotion to emerge, as in bel canto, through vocal and musical values. The singing is also a marvel. Picchi sings superbly as Tom, and manages even to make him touching. Sciutti, whose narrow, sometimes hooty tone has always struck me as an acquired taste, is the best Anne I've heard, singing with precision but also revealing the depth and steadfastness. I'm a Rehfuss fan anyway, and he here sings beautifully, in dramatic contrast to his character's malevolence. Maybe best of all is Jolanda Gardino, super as Baba.