Richard Wagner (1813-1883)
Kirsten Flagstad, Lauritz Melchior,
Sabine Kalter, Herbert Janssen, Emanuel List
Chorus of the Royal Opera
London Philharmonic Orchestra
Fritz Reiner
Recorded during performances on 18 May and 2 June 1936
Label: Naxos 8.110038-40 ADD 3 CD (2000)
[flac&cue; logs; cover, inlays, disc&booklet scans]
"....What can anyone add to 65 years worth of praise heaped upon the fabled Melchior/Flagstad partnership? The singers are captured in their vocal and expressive prime, tearing into the Act 2 love duet with ferocious abandon. What's more, their effortless vocalism (singly and together) abounds in sheer musicality and more dramatic insight than is often credited to them. Emanuel List's insidious dark bass makes you forget how boring King Mark's betrayal monologue can sound via lesser singers. Herbert Janssen's able-bodied Kurwenal reminds you of what this supporting role sounds like when sung rather than shouted. The Brangäne, Sabine Kalter, is best when egging Isolde on in their intense Act 1 exchanges.
Despite the vagaries inherent in the original HMV live recording, the voices and orchestra register well. Fritz Reiner's disciplinary tactics yield coherence, shape, and a high standard of orchestral playing. As was often the case, the "traditional" theater cuts are in effect. Even if you don't ordinarily respond to historic recordings and anything less than high fidelity, give this Tristan und Isolde a shot. It's worth it." [11/9/2000] --Jed Distler, ClassicsToday.com