Treasures of Bel Canto. Rolando Villazon (tenor), Deutsche Grammophon CD
Originally for piano accompaniment, they are presented (with lyrics in the accompanying booklet) for the first time in new orchestral arrangements.
The final track is a gem of a duet by Rossini, "Tirana'', from Les Amants de Seville, with the great mezzo Cecilia Bartoli.
The other 17 are solos by Rossini, Bellini, Verdi and Donizetti.
Well known are Rossini's "La Danza'', and two by Rossini: "Malinconia, ninfa gentile'' and "Vaga luna''.
A stunning selection confirms Villazon's place as one of the world's finest operatic tenors.
Verdict: Villazon returns to roots of Italian romantic singing.
Divine. Anna Hawkins (soprano). Southbound CD
This album, recorded in Warsaw and Israel, features a selection of inspirational songs including Avinu Malkeinu, a song sung in Hebrew which she first sang at a reception for the Israeli ambassador to New Zealand.
Hawkins has toured the country with Welsh tenor Paul Potts and taken lead roles in a number of musical shows (Les Miserables, Chess, Phantom of the Opera, etc.)
"The album is a collection of songs people have been requesting me to record for a long time,'' she says.
"It's close to my heart and I love the restfulness in the music.''
The dozen tracks (various backings) include Amazing Grace, Hallelujah, Panis Angelicus and O Holy Night.
Verdict: Pleasant voice, popular religious songs.
