Gounod: Faust

For the low cost, this set is thrilling, compared to the few other complete "Faust"s available in iTunes. The only set that comes close is the Sutherland for pure orchestral power. But this cast is absolutely a surprise -- Hadley in one of his finest (to this listener) interpretations on record -- and Gasdia a heartbreaking Marguerite; the beauty and strength of her voice throughout never fails her. Her dramatic pulse is completely attuned to all the other singers, and Carlo Rizzi moves the score from the first note of the Overture to the rending ending. Ramey's Mephistople is magnetic and frightening -- the sure combination of attraction and revulsion to generate heat and sweat at the same time. The French is impeccably sung. The orchestra of the Welsh National Opera is evenly captured at all levels; and they are seamless. One of the most beautiful, haunting endings in all opera.