This famous performance has been on the bootleg circuit for so long it's easy to take it for granted. Opera Depot has gotten hold of an excellent copy of the original tape at the correct pitch throughout the recording.Callas was all of 27 when she sang this performance and she is on fire. Yes, the top E-flat at the end of Act 2 is thrilling, but so are many other things she does here. Listen to the very specific choices she makes in her great Act 1 aria "Ritorna vincitor". She isn't just generally conflicted, but brings different shades and colors to the words. It sounds spontaneous, not rehearsed. Similarly, listen to how she ushers in "O patria mia" in Act 3, her voice full of longing and nostalgia, not just generalized sadness (what we usually get).The other singers all give Callas a run for her money. Dominguez was also very young (25), yet she sounds as if she has already had a lifetime of experience in the role. Her Judgement Scene is simply superb as she generates an excitement you won't hear very often in today's opera houses. What a pity she and Callas never got to record the Verdi Requiem together (it almost happened in 1954). Del Monaco hurls out squillo-filled high notes and partners Callas admirably in their scenes together; he does not just shout his way through the role. Taddei is a terrifying Amonasro: no wonder Aida capitulates to his wishes. The two basses are also first-rate. De Fabritiis knows this score like the back of his hand.This recording is the perfect specimen to demonstrate to opera newbies why live performances are almost always more exciting than studio recordings.A classic: every opera lover should have this.

Great. Best sound ever for this performance