This disc offers Leonard Bernstein in some quite rare (at least for him, on disc) operatic repertoire. Given his flair for the dramatic, it’s not surprising that Bernstein would take so winningly to Strauss’ Salome. The Dance of the Seven Veils is full of color, sparkle, and cloying sensuality. This sensuality turns lurid in the final scene, as Bernstein milks Salome’s depraved necrophilia for all it’s worth, drawing stunning playing from the French ensemble. Montserrat Caballé sings with solid, beautifully produced tone and communicates a sense of unbearable longing that makes her portrayal quite convincing. She’s also very good in the lighter, sweeter Strauss songs that follow.
There hardly could be a more extreme contrast with Salome than Boito’s Mefistofele, yet Bernstein–never one to shy away from the grandiose–pulls out all the stops in conjuring up the heavenly realm, with its clarion trombones and angelic choirs. Bass Nicolai Ghiaurov gives an arresting portrayal of the title character. The recording in this case is a bit distant and cavernous (unlike the Salome, which is mostly fine), yet all performers can be clearly heard, with Ghiaurov’s big voice easily penetrating the reverberation.
