Latest CD releases reviewed

Soloists: Joyce Di Donato, Maite Beaumont, Sonia Parina, Karina Gauvin . Il Complesso Barocco. Alan Curtis Archiv 4777374 *****

"When the movement to revive Handel's operas started in the 1960s, Alcina, his great "magic" opera, was one of the first to regain acceptance – both as a masterpiece in its own right and as a vehicle for great singers, with Joan Sutherland making it a showcase role. Since then it has rarely been out of the repertoire, and has been recorded on a number of occasions. While some of the earlier recordings have been distinguished, this performance by Alan Curtis with great singers, comes close to the ideal. The voice of Joyce Di Donato is darker than usual for the role of Alcina, but she conveys the despair of the troubled sorceress in a memorable way, ably supported by a great cast, fine conducting and a flawless recording. This wonderful performance – captured across three discs – is a fitting tribute to Handel, in this the 250th anniversary year of his death. www.deutschegrammophon.com