Michel Plasson is no stranger to this opera. He's recorded it once before for EMI in 1983, but compared with his earlier self Plasson is more assuredly his own man here, taking a broader view of the turbulent, dramatic opening. Then comes the chorus's introductory narration; the earlier Plasson recording puts great emphasis on story-telling, and isn't nearly as imaginative as the quieter, more intimate style he favours here, the chorus having more light and shade, better rhythmic pointing, more 'face'.
As Juliette Gheorghiu immediately makes her listeners echo the chorus's 'Ah! qu'elle est belle!', for the sound matches the imagined sight. Its beauty is more mature than Catherine Malfitano's (Plasson's earlier Juliette), but as the part develops towards tragedy so her warmer, richer tone is better able to embody the depth of feeling, and she brings a fine conviction to the despairing scene with Friar Laurence and to the scene of the potion.
Alagna's Romeo has youth on his side, and though he doesn't always sound too happy with the B flats of 'Ah, lève-toi, soleil', there are many, many things to enjoy. The opera also abounds in rewarding secondary roles – José Van Dam as the Friar is gravely firm and as fine as ever, while Simon Keenlyside is also excellent.