This is the full performance of which an hour of highlights appeared some months ago–for my review type Q10809 in Search Reviews. Again, I feel this is of interest mainly for fans of Raina Kabaivanksa. Here we can hear her entire confrontation with Scarpia, and it is as fiery as I suspected it might be; but I reiterate that since this was recorded in 1982, it is a bit late for her peak. She’s still impressive, and as always, thoroughly committed, but the top of the voice is gritty. Nazzareno Antinori’s real Italian sound is still welcome as Cavaradossi but he still lacks true enthusiasm and he’s a big lyric rather than the needed spinto. Nelson Portella’s Scarpia is even better heard complete. Enzo Dara, who went on to become a superb Rossini bass-baritone, sings both Angelotti and the Sacristan with great character. This never would be a first or only Tosca recording for anyone, but true Kabaivanska fans need not resist. As it stands, there are still a handful of Tosca recordings that are better.
