| Review by Amfibius October 9, 2006 (6 of 6 found this review helpful)
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Performance: Sonics (S): |
This is another Pentatone reissure of a classic disc. The transfer is first rate - on my system I can hear no obvious faults with this SACD. It is not up to the standard of an audiophile demonstration disc - the imaging is a little bit too woolly for that - but this is only a very minor criticism. 4/5 stars.
As for the performance, Ameling was always going to be up for some tough competition as my favourite Schubert lieder singer is Elisabeth Schwarzkopf. Ameling generally uses faster tempi and has more lively singing than Schwarzkopf, who has a more considered and more mature approach. Schwarzkopf is able to plumb the depths of emotion and reveal the subtleties of the songs more effectively than Ameling.
The best example is the first track - "Das Lied im Grunen". Ameling effectively evokes images of a sun-filled countryside and the cleansing effect it has on our world weariness. Schwarzkopf's rendition is an altogether more serious one - her tone is darker but this only serves to contrast the incredible sweetness she can bring to certain phrases.
In terms of phrasing, there is nothing between the two singers. Ameling has a trace of a Swedish accent, but that's about it. Both singers have superb diction, as one would expect.
I prefer the Schwarzkopf, but most people who are not initiated to Schubert's music prefer the Ameling. It is definitely more accessible, with her bright lovely voice, her seductive playfulness, and the overall airy and golden toned ambience of this disc.
Highly recommended.
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Sonics (S/MC):
