What is there to say? Here we have the two greatest Scandinavian sopranos of the 20th century (also two of the greatest 20th century sopranos, period), singing some little-known music of their native region with an enthusiasm, expressive empathy, and technical perfection never equaled since. The prize, since it’s new to general CD release, is Birgit Nilsson’s recital of songs by Sibelius, Grieg, and Rangström. Sibelius’ “Höstkväll” (“Autumn Evening”) alone is worth the criminally modest price of this disc. The Flagstad items have appeared before, but they certainly belong here, and since no one else who matters has ever sung them nearly as well, and since they are all wonderful works (the Alnaes songs in particular), I’d live with some duplication (if that’s what it comes down to) just for the sake of having Nilsson’s material. In short, a delight from the start, despite the absence of texts and translations. [6/5/2001]
