Destouches, A.C.: Callirhoe

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Baroque opera with Andre Cardinal Destouches' "Callirhoe," a captivating masterpiece that showcases the composer's unique blend of French and Italian influences. Released on Glossa in 2007, this album is a testament to Destouches' musical prowess, offering a rich and engaging listening experience that spans over 86 minutes.

"Callirhoe" is a five-act opera that tells a tale of love, sacrifice, and divine intervention, set to a libretto by Pierre-Charles Roy. The album features a stellar cast of vocalists, each bringing their unique talents to the table, and delivering powerful performances that bring the story to life. From the hauntingly beautiful arias to the grand choral numbers, every track is a testament to the composer's ability to create music that is both emotionally resonant and technically impressive.

The album opens with the "Overture," a sweeping orchestral piece that sets the stage for the drama to come. As the story unfolds, you'll be transported to a world of ancient Greece, where the beautiful Callirhoe finds herself at the center of a complex love triangle. The music is a perfect complement to the story, with each character's emotions and motivations expressed through the melodies and harmonies.

One of the standout tracks on the album is "Objet infortune de mes secrets desirs," a powerful aria sung by Callirhoe in Act I, Scene 3. The track showcases the singer's impressive vocal range and emotional depth, as she expresses her inner turmoil and longing. Another highlight is "Le dieu me voit, m'entend, il peut reduire en poudre," a dramatic aria sung by Coresus in Act II, Scene 5, where he pleads with the gods to intervene in his favor.

The album also features a number of instrumental tracks, including marches, minuets, and symphonies, that add to the overall richness of the listening experience. These tracks showcase Destouches' ability to create music that is both beautiful and technically impressive, with intricate melodies and harmonies that are a joy to listen to.

In summary, "Callirhoe" is a must-listen for anyone interested in Baroque opera or the works of Andre Cardinal Destouches. With its powerful performances, beautiful music, and engaging story, it's an album that will captivate and inspire listeners from start to finish.