A smooth voice in a smooth repertoire. - Cesare Siepi s bass voice is greatly underrepresented in the CD catalogue. This album lets us know what an artist he was. His interpretations are always just right, and never over the top. Only an occasional accent slips in. His English diction should be a model for all singers. I lost no more than 5% of the words. The wonderful way he caresses his way into Night and Day or sails through Begin the Beguine are wonderful examples of his artistry. Siepi includes the often omitted verses to each song, and that is a plus. The sound quality is more than acceptable. It isn t digital, but here the fidelity comes from the artistry and not the sound itself. In fact the sound quality is a lot better than the 1955 recording date might indicate. I was not bothered in the least ... in fact I was pleasantly surprised.There are unfortunately lots of typos in the notes that should have been corrected. Myto should review such things before putting them out on the market.Siepi s way with the Italian songs is equally enjoyable. How nice to have someone sing them instead of bawling them to the rafters. This is a winner album, and it would be 5 stars if the sound were a little more modern.
Delightful collection of songs performed by great artist - Despite the inferior sound quality of this CD, it is pleasing to have this unusual collection available. Cesare Siepi is a great artist, with the best English diction of any classical Italian singer within memory. Although I remember him best as the most dashing and truly seductive Don Giovanni at the Met, he is equally convincing with a popular song. A rare achievement! Siepi, I love you as much today as I did when I was an infatuated teenager.