“‘Great’ is not an adjective to be invoked lightly. But once you hear mezzo-soprano Jamie Barton hold forth on her debut solo album, All Who Wander (Delos)—available in 24/96 from HDTracks, which features songs by Mahler, Sibelius, and Dvorák, you will harbor no doubt that she is one of the great vocal artists of our era. … Barton’s grand and rich voice is perhaps as big as Flagstad’s, Farrell, and Nilsson’s, with tone as beautiful and unforced as the first two singers’. Its compass extends from the bottom of the mezzo range to an easy, room-shaking high C. But as easily as Barton can envelop you with sound, she can also grab you by the gut, and propel you deep into the emotional heart of music’s great mysteries. … It is the emotional depth of Barton’s artistry that sets her apart from other singers blessed with exceptional voices. … when Barton tackles repertoire that suits her emotional strengths, as do both Mahler’s five Rückert Lieder (songs) and the six Sibelius songs on All Who Wander, she has the power to render you breathless and at her mercy. … Barton’s Rückert Lieder, superbly accompanied by pianist Brian Zeger, are up there with the best… All told, a most brilliant debut recital from an artist already familiar with many of the world’s great stages, including New York’s Met.” —Jason Victor Serinus, Stereophile Magazine
You must be logged in to post a comment.