Jussi Björling, one of the most celebrated tenors of the 20th century, presents a timeless collection of operatic masterpieces in "O Paradiso." Released on December 26, 1995, under the RCA Gold Seal label, this album is a testament to Björling's extraordinary vocal prowess and emotional depth. Spanning a little over an hour and fifteen minutes, the album features a diverse array of arias from some of the most beloved operas in the repertoire.
From the hauntingly beautiful "O paradiso" from L'africaine to the triumphant "Nessun dorma" from Turandot, Björling's voice shines with clarity, power, and an unparalleled ability to convey the essence of each character. The album includes iconic pieces such as "La fleur que tu m'avais jetée" from Carmen, the passionate "Di quella pira" from Il trovatore, and the poignant "E lucevan le stelle" from Tosca. Björling's interpretations are marked by their technical brilliance and profound emotional resonance, making this album a treasure trove for opera enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
"O Paradiso" showcases Björling's versatility as he navigates through arias that range from tender and lyrical to dramatic and intense. His rendition of "Che gelida manina" from La Bohème and "Ah, Manon, mi tradisce" from Manon Lescaut highlights his ability to infuse each note with heartfelt sincerity. The album also features the famous quartet "Bella figlia dell'amore" from Rigoletto, demonstrating Björling's exceptional skill in ensemble performances.
This album is not just a compilation of arias but a celebration of Jussi Björling's enduring legacy in the world of opera. His recordings continue to inspire and captivate audiences, making "O Paradiso" a must-listen for anyone who appreciates the art of opera.
(P) 1996 BMG Entertainment
Tracks
L'africaine: Act IV: O paradisoGiacomo Meyerbeer, Jussi Björling, Renato Cellini
Aida: Fuggiam gli ardori inospitiGiuseppe Verdi, Jonel Perlea, Zinka Milanov, Jussi Björling
Aida: Misero appien mi festiGiuseppe Verdi, Jussi Björling, Fedora Barbieri, Jonel Perlea
Carmen: Act II: La fleur que tu m'avais jetée (Flower Song)Georges Bizet, Jussi Björling
Il trovatore: Deserto sulla terraGiuseppe Verdi, Renato Cellini, Jussi Björling, Zinka Milanov, Leonard Warren, Fedora Barbieri, Nicola Moscona, Margaret Roggero, Paul Franke, Nathaniel Sprinzena
Il trovatore: Mal reggendoGiuseppe Verdi, Jussi Björling, Renato Cellini
Il trovatore: Ah, sì, ben mioGiuseppe Verdi, Renato Cellini, Jussi Björling, Zinka Milanov, Leonard Warren, Fedora Barbieri, Nicola Moscona, Margaret Roggero, Nathaniel Sprinzena, Paul Franke
Il trovatore: Di quella piraGiuseppe Verdi, RCA Victor Orchestra, Renato Cellini, Jussi Björling, Robert Shaw Chorale, Robert Shaw
Don Giovanni: Act II: Scene 2: Il mio tesoroWolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Jussi Björling
La Bohéme: Act I: Che gelida maninaGiacomo Puccini, Jussi Björling, Renato Cellini
Tosca: Act III: E lucevan le stelleGiacomo Puccini, Jussi Björling
Tosca: Act III: Amaro sol per teGiacomo Puccini, Jussi Björling, Erich Leinsdorf
Manon Lescaut: Act II: Ah, Manon, mi tradisceGiacomo Puccini, Jonel Perlea, Licia Albanese, Jussi Björling, Robert Merrill, Franco Calabrese, Anna Maria Rota, Mario Carlin