Opera

Latest CD release reviewed

ROLANDO VILLAZON: OPERA RECITAL
Bayerischer Rundfunkchor; Munchner Rundfunkorchester; Conductor: Michel Plasson. Virgin Classics *****

In the two years since his debut disc, this young Mexican tenor has become something of an operatic superstar, receiving both critical acclaim and public enthusiasm. While his voice is not particularly large, on disc it has similar colour and timbre to the young Domingo, and comparisons have inevitably been made with that great singer. However, in this recital Villazon puts his personal stamp on a wide-ranging repertoire that covers French, Italian, German and Russian arias. The chosen material is beautifully sung with a fine sense of line and sensitivity to the text. Some of the heavier arias stretch his voice a little, but all in all this disc is further confirmation of the arrival of a great tenor with the voice, musicianship and charisma to ensure a glittering career. www.virginclassics.com  Colman Morrissey