Most opera lovers browsing through Opera Depot's catalogue may be inclined to pass over this Ballo because, except for Brouwenstijn, the names aren't immediately recognizable. But that would be an unfortunate error. This is as exciting a Ballo as I've heard in a while. Andy has more reservations about Zampieri than I do. I wouldn't say he's a forgotten musical genius, but he sings very well with that ringing Italianate tone that made him such a favorite in Vienna (he was a favorite of Karajan's for a while too appearing in his famous Fledermaus recording with Gueden and Kmentt.) Brouwenstijn is a magnificent Amelia; nothing in the music fazes her and she brings a passionate despair to the role that is most winning. She avoids some low notes, not singing the optional low A in her first aria and rewriting the cadenza at the end of "Morro" to avoid the lowest notes. But who cares? She was a splendid artist and shows why here in spades. Colombo is a very fine Renato, not only singing well, but subtly showing Renato's ambivalence towards his wife and friend. Delorie is a excellent Ulrica and Ratti a charming Oscar. Molinari-Pradelli leads a spirited, well-rehearsed performance recorded in very clear mono broadcast sound.All Ballo and Brouwenstijn lovers should gave this - it's that good!