Javier Camarena has proven his worth once again with this new album dedicated to the music and roles of 18th-century Spanish tenor Manuel García. Besides fathering those famous sisters, Maria Malibran and Pauline Viardot, García was best known for originating the role of Almaviva in Rossini’s Il Barbiere di Siviglia, as well as for composing a number of light operas that were popular in his day.

Camarena’s impeccable taste and musicality makes this florid program of works by García, Zingarelli and Rossini highly enjoyable, rather than relentless and dull. His basic sound – warm and enveloping, with not a trace of nasality – sets him apart from the usual bravura divo.

Listen to Cessa...