What Zagrosek s gloriously recorded version demonstrates is the range of atmospheric beauty in the score . Zagrosek draws dedicated playing and singing from the massive ensemble, and the beautifully balanced sound is of demonstration quality . The Penguin Guide
Zagrosek s reading is superb, his cast almost without flaw. I have not heard Connell give a better performance: she has all Carlotta s glamour, together with a purity of tone and a subtle response to words and phrasing that come close to giving her a soul. The precision and detail of the subsidiary characters are praiseworthy throughout; even very small roles have been cast from strength. The recording is remarkably fine, spacious and sumptuous, with not a single detail out of focus . Gramophone