Composers: Verdi
Compositions: Arias
Performers: Orchestre Métropolitain/
Yannick Nézet-Séguin
Catalogue Number: DG 4836096

Russian bass Ildar Abdrazakov’s all-Verdi recital disc is a winner. An exciting showcase for his glamorous basso cantate instrument, the qualities we associate with true Verdian singing are all there: security of tone, expansiveness of breath, rhythmic acuity and vocal control. Throw in Abdrazakov’s innate stylistic and linguistic refinement, plus his easy high notes and emphasis on dramatic expression, and you’ve got yourself the whole package.