There is a whole series of outstanding recordings of Cavalleria, such as from 1952 under Cellini with Zinka Milanov and Jussi Björling or, to mention a much newer, with Renata Scotto and Levine Placido Domingo in 1976 (both RCA). But here in the series "The Originals" again presented by the DGG easily beats all rivals. The Orchestra of La Scala is almost unrecognizable, it sounds here and there almost as good as the Berliner Philharmoniker. Karajan makes a verismo Reißer a feast for the ears for culinary connoisseurs. The soloists, especially Fiorenca Cossotto and Carlo Bergonzi, sing beautifully and without all the artificial effects that often destroy the work to inedible. And the chorus? Rarely have I heard sing the Scala choir so beautifully. This recording is a vindication for a abgetanes often as cheap masterpiece whose qualities are brought here to a unique life. In an old negative criticism of this recording was objected that Karajan is "here in Silk Coats among the peasants" presented. I can only say: Thank God he was not too good and has left us so that a document of timeless beauty. The recording dates from September 1965, comes up with a superb sound quality. It is the DGG succeeded accommodate Karajan version with a playing time of almost 81 minutes without any loss on a CD. An opera festival for the deserted island! The complete libretto with translation into several languages is enclosed, and the comprehensive textbook waiting additionally with interesting contributions on. Finally, a correction to the criticism of kamelie22 from Bochum: Fiorenca Cossotto sings not in the same time created "BAJAZZO" the Nedda, that's Joan Carlyle, and that's my opinion, not the ideal choice, but the only (small) objection to this also top-notch parallel recording.
