Offenbach Colorature

Celebrate the bicentenary of Jacques Offenbach's birth with this enchanting album, "Offenbach Colorature," featuring the extraordinary soprano Jodie Devos. Released on February 8, 2019, under the Alpha Classics label, this collection showcases Offenbach's fascination with the vocal virtuosity of coloratura divas, offering a delightful journey through some of his most captivating compositions.

Spanning a diverse range of operatic works, this album presents a stunning array of arias and ensembles that highlight the brilliance and technical prowess of both Offenbach and Devos. From the hauntingly beautiful melodies of "Boule de Neige" to the intricate interplay between vocal and orchestral elements in "Les Contes d'Hoffmann," each track is a testament to Offenbach's enduring genius and Devos's exceptional artistry.

The album opens with "Boule de neige," setting the stage for a captivating exploration of Offenbach's repertoire. Standout tracks include "Acte I Scène 2: Couplet de la dompteuse 'Je suis du pays vermeil'" from "Vert-Vert," showcasing Devos's ability to convey both charm and wit, and "Acte II Scènes 7B & C: Air de la Corilla 'Les plus beaux vers sont toujours fades'" from the same opera, demonstrating her mastery of coloratura technique.

Other highlights include the enchanting "Romance des Fleurs 'Le voilà c'est bien lui'" from "Le Roi Carotte," the lively "Rondo de Ciboulette 'Quel bruit et quel tapage'" from "Mesdames de la halle," and the hauntingly beautiful "Barcarolle 'Belle nuit, Ô nuit d'amour'" from "Les Contes d'Hoffmann." Each piece is performed with precision and passion, bringing Offenbach's compositions to life in a way that is both thrilling and deeply moving.

With a runtime of approximately 60 minutes, this album is a perfect introduction to the world of Jacques Offenbach and the extraordinary talent of Jodie Devos. Whether you are a seasoned opera enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "Offenbach Colorature" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience that is sure to delight and inspire.