The repertory of 19th century French opera is huge, and so much of it remains unexplored, at least outside of France. Consider this release by soprano
Jodie Devos, who is building a catalog of choice vocal albums on the Alpha label. Her repertory ranges from Pergolesi to
Freddie Mercury, and she has a modest-sized voice of considerable charm. Here, she applies it to French repertory arias from the earlier and middle 19th century that retain a good deal of Italianate melody but elaborate it in a French way.
Devos' voice jumps around in material that often has a comic aspect, and it is precise while remaining relaxed. The big news here, however, is the program of "
bijoux perdus," lost jewels that virtually demand rediscovery. The only composer present with any degree of general familiarity is Giacomo Meyerbeer, and even he is represented by unusual items. The must-haves include works by the likes of Ambroise Thomas and Fromental Halévy, the latter known only for La Juive these days. Doesn't it seem as though Jaguarita l'Indienne, a comedy set in Dutch Guiana and dealing with a native queen who falls in love with a European prison guard, might be worth a revival? The tunes certainly favor the voice of
Devos, who will communicate effectively even with listeners who do not speak French. She gets fine, lissome support from the
Brussels Philharmonic under
Pierre Bleuse. This release would be worthwhile even if it were not particularly well sung, and it is sung very nicely. ~ James Manheim