Latest releases reviewed

The Swell Season - Live from the Artists Den Artists Den***

The success of The Swell Season is one of the more heartening stories of the past two years; the fact that it's a success borne out of naturalistic performances and some fine songs makes it all the more wholesome. The music, recorded in a chapel in Seattle on a cold autumn morning prior to Hansard and Irglová receiving Grammy and Oscar nominations, is balanced by tracks from the movie Once, the duo's Swell Season album, some Frames tunes and a sprinkling of new material. Cinematically, it's a bit of dud, but the music is performed with innate good taste, common sense and lack of ego. Extras include interview clips.  TONY CLAYTON-LEA

Soloists: Renee Fleming, Rolando Villazon, Renato Bruson. Los Angeles Opera Orchestra & Chorus. Conductor: James ConlonDecca *****

A true celebrity production from LA, with lavish settings, star singers and an appreciative glitterati audience. It's nonethe- less a memorable production, with commitment from orchestra and singers. Renee Fleming as Violetta sings beautifully, is glamorous and feminine, if hardly frail and consumptive; Rolando Villazon with golden tone and heartfelt ardour is riveting as Alfredo. The veteran baritone Renato Bruson has made Père Germont a signature role in recent years, and he gives the role dignity and stature even if his vocal production is a little unsteady at times. They say a great Violetta can move an audience to tears in the second as well as the third act, and Fleming's dramatic intensity coupled with her fine singing is of this standard. Great singing and a fine production. www.iclassics.com COLMAN MORRISSEY