This recording is quite a treat! The blunt sensuousness depicted on the CD sleeve effectively prepares the listener for the strikingly luscious and constantly varied sound dominating the recording. The opening Sinfonia from Ballo delle ingrate makes it clear that the singers of I Fagiolini are supported by a first-class instrumental ensemble. Consisting of lute, harp, theorbo(s), keyboard(s), and violins, this group has a remarkably wide expressive range.

The following madrigal, Ardo, avvampo showcases the vocalists, who sing with great energy and dramatic flair. It is interesting to note that (to our knowledge) there was not a large amount written in the 17th century about vocal tone production. Much was said, however, about ways to move the listener’s emotions through acting (a mandatory skill for every good singer).

It is, therefore, the singer’s ability to dramatize the words that are being sung which determines the success of a performance, and I Fagiolini understands this exceptionally well. Rimanti in pace offers an effective contrast to the previous piece with its excruciatingly poignant expression of desperation and self-pity. Ogni amante è guerrier, on the other hand, explores the contrasting emotional states of warrior and lover that are at odds within a man.

The only objection that can really be raised about this recording pertains to the pronunciation of consonances, which are often not as strong as they perhaps should be, and this to some extent diminishes the dramatic effect in certain musical passages. Overall this is a first class recording and a must for any lover of Monteverdi! ŽAK OZMO