Customer Reviews

Recital Denyce Graves: Heroines de L'opera Romantique Francais

5 star:		(5)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

There are some fine mezzo sopranos currently active, but Denyce Graves is the best of the lot -- and by a significant margin. Graves is the only modern mezzo whom I would put in the same class as the great mezzos of the past: Rise Stevens, Marilyn Horne, and Christa Ludwig. The arias selected for this CD range from good to great and the singing is superb. If you haven't yet heard this outstanding mezzo, this CD is an excellent place to start. Please don't pass this one up.

Anyone who truly loves French opera, in particular mezzo sopranos, rejoice! This is indeed a treasure to listen to again and again. Denyce Graves is the most talented mezzo to emerge in the last 10 years, her diction is superb, as well as her knowledge of the French style. I don't think I have ever heard a more moving rendition of "Mon couer s'ouvre ta voix" from Samson et Dalila in my life. She makes so much of the text! The little known aria from Gounod's "Sapho" is worth the price of the CD alone. Graves is SO moving, SO dignified, she moved me to tears. I could go on and on about each piece, but will leave you to discover this wonderful CD for yourself.

I've owned this album for many years and I am still captivated by Denyce Graves powerful and moving voice. I never grow tired of hearing this beautiful recording, sung with such strength and grace. Of all of her recordings I have found this to be the most completely enjoyable time and time again.

In "Heroines," Graves delivers with inimitable sensuousness. Her voice is as smooth and caramelized as her complexion. Business sends me to Paris regularly and I pack "Heroines" in my briefcase before my passport. Graves' celestial sounds are at worse, tranquilizing: I listen to this CD as I travel into the city and Graves' talent seduces me, I often miss the Eiffel Tower on my journey. And if only the Mona Lisa could hear her, she just might smile. It's been five years since I purchased this CD; in fact, by accident. A Southerner, I have always had a penchant for Jessye Norman. Purchasing Graves' "Heroines" is by far the best accident I've ever made, and now she's my favorite.

I could listen to Denyce all day. What a gift!