French Touch [Patricia Petibon]

This too is an unusual and delightful CD but in a very different way. Petibon came to prominence in her work with William Christie but this solo recording gives her a chance to display a daring side that has obviously been kept in check to date. As the album’s cover art indicates this is a fun, campy take on French opera. Petibon has a beautiful, full, syrupy soprano that travels well in range and style. She can be flirty, full of sad entreaty, and just plain silly! Her rendition of Offenbach’s Doll Song can only be described as spectacular and mad. She lets her voice amble through the music combining screams, strange little sounds and perfect pitch notes.