La Bohème & Romeo et Julliette, Stockholm 1940

Experience the timeless artistry of Jussi Björling in this captivating 1940 live recording from Stockholm, featuring two of the most beloved operas in the repertoire: Puccini's "La Bohème" and Gounod's "Romeo et Juliette." Sung in Swedish, this album offers a unique perspective on these classic works, showcasing Björling's renowned tenor voice and his ability to convey deep emotion and nuance.

"La Bohème" is presented in its entirety, with highlights including the iconic "Che gelida manina" ("Så kall ni är om handen" in Swedish) and the tender "O soave fanciulla" ("O du ljuva kvinna"). Björling's portrayal of Rodolfo is both passionate and tender, capturing the essence of the doomed poet.

The album also features excerpts from "Romeo et Juliette," including the thrilling "Nuit d'amour" ("Av nåd, dröj kvar en stund … Helgon, du ljuva") and the heart-wrenching "Adieu, belle bien-aimée" ("Ja! Jag dig förlåtit har! … Natt stjärnerika"). Björling's Romeo is a perfect blend of youthful exuberance and tragic depth.

Recorded in 1940 and released by Bluebell in 2012, this album is a testament to Björling's enduring legacy and the timeless power of opera. With a runtime of just under an hour, it's a perfect introduction to Björling's artistry and a delightful addition to any opera enthusiast's collection.