The Press, Christchurch, New Zealand, 21.11.07

Christopher Moore

THE BEST

Jonas Kaufmann (tenor), Helmut Deutsch (piano) Harmonia Mundi HMC 901879

Arts editor Christopher Moore picks three of the week's best.

The young German singer ignites this collection of Strauss lieder singing his heart out and making the new release an instant favourite. Instead of singing with an awestruck reverence Kaufmann plunges into them with a heady ardour and passion. If you've avoided Richard Strauss's lieder in the past listen to this recording and discover the vivid musical colours, textures and sweep, which in this singer's hands leap from the score. Barely a decade after graduating from music school Kaufmann is definitely a rising star. On this recording he's perfectly teamed with pianist Helmut Deutsch.