Mak Goldins: Jewish Folk Songs; Rachmaninov: Romantic Songs

This collection, by the great Latvian sopranoInessa, Inessa Galante, is misleadingly titled. The first 18 selections here are indeed Jewish folk songs from the 19th and 20th centuries. However, there is also a four-song suite of love songs by Rachmaninoff tagged on to the end of the set that is so transcendently beautiful and moving, it nearly overshadows the illustrious program that preceded it. No matter, Galante is a major talent, a singer who can hold her own on the stages of the world with virtually any cast or orchestra. There is a great earthiness in her voice that gives her an interpretive edge over many other singers as well. This collection, though non-operatic in design, is exactly that, in effect. It's stunningly beautiful, expertly executed, and wisely chosen.