Anne Sofie von Otter - Folksongs (Dvorak, Kodaly, Britten, Grainger, Larsson, Hahn)

Mezzo-soprano Anne Sofie von Otter a folkie? Most definitely: she and Bengt Forsberg have been sold on folksong in its various manifestations for years. But anyone with scruples about the brown-rice-and-sandals approach to such music need have no fears. This is quite simply a ravishing collection, with enough musical merit to satisfy the most hardhearted skeptic. Having said that, the term "folksong" here is loosely applied. The pieces by Dvor¡k, Larsson, and Reynaldo Hahn are inspired by folk music instead of arrangements. No matter--this is such a clever selection, embracing warm and winning Dvor¡k; bittersweet, wistful Grainger; passionate, romantic Reynaldo Hahn; and earthy Kod¡ly (closest to authentic folksong) and Britten arrangements with all of the familiar inventiveness. In addition, there are attractive songs from Otter's compatriots Lars-Erik Larsson and Gunnar Hahn. As ever, Otter's singing displays much freshness, intelligence, and poise, as well as identification with every mood (the range is staggering for a "mere" folksong album). What's more, she encompasses six languages with ease (plus a rustic British accent in the Grainger that sounds uncannily natural). Forsberg's playing is a delight--the whole thing is a delight. Don't deprive your CD player of a treat. --Andrew Green