This is a Dutchman worth sailing the seven seas for, launched by a thrilling account of the Overture, storm-tossed and romantically intimate, superbly played and impactfully recorded, a vivid impression of the drama to come (the booklet includes the German libretto and an English translation), Edward Gardner ensuring that the theatrical impetus established at the very beginning is maintained throughout to compelling effect, pictures painted, aided by using the three-Act playing-continuously version (two hours, eleven minutes on this occasion), the singers, not just the ‘leads’, exuding vocal charisma and excellence, as well as a high degree of characterisation and involvement that shares with the listener who, in response, can only become immersed in the music and the action. A top recommendation for this stage-work.

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