This comparatively rare opera has received very few recordings over the years and this is its only recent incarnation albeit dating back to 1986, almost a quarter of a century ago. It has aged well with the mesmeric and passionate conducting of the Swiss, Armin Jordan very much in harmony with Chausson's Wagnerian music.
King Arthur obviously makes an intriguing setting for any opera and the arias and ensembles are extremely enjoyable to listen to. It is a fine work which deserves resurrection on CD although the libretto and sumptuous booklet which made up the former Erato set (ECD88213 or 2292-45407-2) are long gone. Otherwise a real snip at such a price.
Copyright © 2010, Gerald Fenech