Rocky rocks Rossini!
Elise Curran | Orlando, FL United States | 05/16/2003
(5 out of 5 stars)
"If you are familiar with Rockwell Blake's singing, this will be a welcome addition. If not, you are in for a treat. All the thrills we expect from Rocky are here, as well as drama and a great sense of humor. For thrills, try his "La Danza" with the fabulous high A at the end that he holds for 11 bars...he actually out-does Pavarotti here (and I LOVE the Pav's version). For drama, check out "Le sylvain" which is the best version of this one I've ever heard, and also "Romeo"...both throb with emotion. However, my favorite things on this cd are the songs that show off Rossini's humor, and Rocky gets right into it. Check out "L'orgia", which I never liked until I heard this drunken version!!! And then there is "La lazzarone", which exploits Rossini's love of eating, and has the famous quote about "see Naples and die". Rocky's version of the Cat Duet, whether by Rossini or not, is my all-time favorite, with male alto Gerard Lesne along for the ride. Blake ornaments this one like you've never heard, and he has a great 'meow'! I played this cd TO DEATH until it was stolen from my car. Hope they liked it! Highly Recommended!!!!!!"