Verdissimo II: Don Carlos - Alzira

Immerse yourself in the rich, dramatic world of Giuseppe Verdi with "Verdissimo II: Don Carlos - Alzira." This captivating album, released on February 1, 2013, under the Documents label, is a stunning collection of operatic masterpieces that showcase Verdi's unparalleled compositional prowess.

The album presents a seamless blend of two of Verdi's most renowned operas, "Don Carlos" and "Alzira," both sung in German. "Don Carlos," a grand opera in five acts, is a powerful exploration of political intrigue, love, and sacrifice, set against the backdrop of the Spanish Inquisition. The album features key arias and ensembles from the third and fourth acts, including the intense "Ich bin's, mein Carlos" and the poignant "Du, im irdischen Wahn einst befangen."

Complementing "Don Carlos" is "Alzira," a lesser-known but equally compelling opera that tells a tale of love and conflict in colonial Peru. The album includes selections from the prologue and the first two acts, such as the stirring "Muoia, muoia, coverto d'insulti" and the tender "Anima mia."

With a total runtime of 1 hour and 48 minutes, "Verdissimo II: Don Carlos - Alzira" offers a comprehensive journey through Verdi's operatic genius. The album is a testament to Verdi's ability to craft deeply moving and dramatically compelling music, making it a valuable addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection. Whether you're a long-time fan of Verdi or new to his work, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.