Bychkov's idiomatic interpretation flows well, never freezing up, as some do, in the slowest passages. He also avoids false theatrics, finding instead an inner vitality that motivates the Sanctus with energy.

On this fine new Cologne recording, Semyon Bychkov deploys two specialist German radio choirs shrewdly intermixed with the chorus of Turin's Teatro Regio. If Bychkov's reading doesn't quite burn white in the Dies irae as Fricsay's did, or Toscanini's, it is nonetheless a supremely well directed Requiem, scrupulously observed, meticulously prepared, vivid, lucid, forward-moving. If there's a reservation, it is that the recorded balance occasionally has one straining to hear how good the choral work actually is.
Olga Borodina is an eloquent exponent of the mezzo-soprano role, well matched to her younger colleague, herself an erstwhile mezzo.
What Urmana's voice lacks in evenness in legato passages is more than made up for by her command of the spinto manner, the drama of the text vividly purveyed. Ferruccio Furlanetto, now in his 59th year, has lost none of his mastery of the legato style. He brings an authentically Italianate feel to the music, as does bel canto specialist Ramón Vargas, here at his eloquent best.
Verdi's Requiem can seem a somewhat self-regarding piece, not least when 'great interpreters' get hold of it. This reading, for all its distinction, gives itself no airs.

…a supremely well directed Requiem, scrupulously observed, meticulously prepared, vivid, lucid, forward-moving. Borodina… is an eloquent exponent of the mezzo-soprano role… what Urmana's voice lacks in evenness in legato passages is more than made up for by her command of the spinto manner, the drama of the text vividly purveyed. Ferruccio Furlanetto... brings an authentically Italianate feel to the music, as does bel canto specialist Ramón Vargas, here at his eloquent best.

Soprano Violeta Urmana, mezzo Olga Borodina, tenor Ramon Vargas and bass Ferruccio Furlanetto all have their moments, but its the orchestra and German choirs who fuel the impassioned frenzy between passages of the most eloquent reflection. If you like your Verdi hot and spicy, this is for you.