La boheme - Netrebko and Villazon

La boheme is one of the most loved works in opera. The story of a two star gazed lovers combined with some of the most beautiful music and melodies that one can hear, makes for a truely unforgettable experience.  This work has been recorded by so many great artists over the decades. These include the very popular recording with Pavarotti and Freni in the title roles and who can surpass the classic recording with Bjorling and De los angeles, just to name a few. It is for that reason that if one was to ask whether another recording would be necessary, one would respond simply ‘No’.  However after hearing this recording one can see why this recording was made. The title roles of Mimi and Rodolfo are played by two stars in the opera world today, namely Anna Netrebko and Rolando Villazon. It is also interesting to note that this recording was done from a live performance. These two artists are at their prime at the time of this recording. They inject the much needed youthfulness and joy that is needed for much of this opera. They primarily achieve this through the phrasing and dynamics. One is also able to hear and feel the heartbreak that is needed in the last act of the opera when tragedy befalls these two lovers. Netrebko and Villazon are supported by very capable cast of singers.  All in all if an opera fan is looking for a new edition to their La boheme collection, this one would have to be the pick.


Tracklist

Disc 1

1. "Questo Mar Rosso"
2. Pensier Profondo"
3. "Legna!"
4. "Si Può"
5. "Io Resto"
6. "Chi È Là?"
7. "Si Sente Meglio?"
8. "Che Gelida Manina"
9. "Sì. Mi Chiamano Mimì"
10. "Ehi! Rodolfo!"
11. "O Soave Fanciulla"
12. "Arranci, Datteri!"
13. Chi Guardi?
14. "Viva Parpignol"
15. Ch'io Beva Del Tossico!
16. "Quando M'en Vo"
17. "Chi L'ha Richiesto?...Caro! - Fuori Il Danaro!"

Disc 2

1. "Ohè, Là, Le Guardie!" - "Aprite!"
2. "Sa Dirmi, Scusi"
3. "Mimi!" - "Speravo Di Trovarvi Qui"
4. "Marcello. Finalmente!"
5. "Mimì È Una Civetta"
6. "Mimì È Tanto Malata!"
7. "Donde Lieta Uscì"
8. "Dunque È Propio Finita!"
9. "In Un Coupé?"
10. O Mimì, Tu Più Non Torni
11. Che Ora Sia?
12. "Gavotta"
13. "C'è Mimì..."
14. "Vecchia Zimarra, Senti"
15. "Sono Andati"
16. "Che Avvien?"
17. "Che Ha Detto Il Medico?"