Simon Rattle - Wagner: Das Rheingold (2015) [Hi-Res]

Simon Rattle's 2015 recording on BR Klassik of Richard Wagner's Das Rheingold has much of the intensity and drama of a fully staged production, though it was patched together from two concert performances and benefits from studio-quality recording and editing. One senses that Rattle wished to make a definitive recording, as free as possible from musical blemishes and stage mishaps, so every precaution was taken to capture all the vocal parts and the orchestral accompaniment carefully and cleanly, without losing any of the excitement of live performance. This recording features baritone Michael Volle as Wotan, bass-baritone Tomasz Konieczny as Alberich, and mezzo-soprano Elisabeth Kulman as Fricka, with a supporting cast that is vocally strong and well-rehearsed, even though many of the singers are not famous outside Germany. The Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra is dynamic and powerful, sounding as if it has been playing Wagner's operas for years, in addition to its extremely busy recording schedule for other repertoire. In light of these points, Rattle's Rheingold is a fine recording for home listening and studying the score, as opposed to a more theatrical or historical version to be appreciated for distinctive acting or legendary singing. -- Blair Sanderson