Search - Lalo, Hendricks :: Le Roi D'Ys

Completely unforgetable!

Brett Farrell | Cape May, NJ USA | 04/24/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"A beautiful recording of Lalo's 'Le Roi d'Y's'. Listening to this recording on the Erato label (not Elektra whatever that is) is what I imagine it was like hearing it for the first time. This is the music that calmed an overcrowded house, that drew the attention of a disgruntled audience away from the managments mistake (The Opera-Comique had burned down so the theatre had temporarily moved to Theatre des Nations). Since the managment had never premeried an opera in their new theater they sent out thousands of invitations and 3500 people showed up in a theater that only sat 2000. But despite this the opera triumphed!

Right from the rousing overture to the opening chorus this opera never fails to please. One of the highlight songs being the opening chorus in act 3 that lead into one of the most beautiful aria's I've ever heard 'Puisqu'on ne peut flechir'. Anyone who hears this aria will not forget it anytime soon. Its beauty is breadth taking. And then finally the thrilling finale where Y's sinks into the ocean that leaves you with goose bumps.

Of all the versions of this opera out there this the only one I own and the only one I will ever own. There is nothing to improve upon. The sound quality is superb and the performers are top notch through out. This CD is well worth adding to any opera collection."

An Excellent Recording of an Excellent Work

Jason Husgen | New York, NY | 02/16/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Lalo's Le Roi d'Ys is unfortunately neglected both on the concert stage outside France and on record. The opera is easily one of the highlights of 19th Century French opera and likely Lalo's masterpiece. This Erato recording captures the work brilliantly -- perhaps better than any competitor. All the more unfortunate that it's no longer in circulation. The work and this recording specifically are both highly recommended."