Romero, FernándezShaw, Jesús Guridi - El Caserío

Review by Shiv Singh

El Caserío, a zarzuela album composed by Jesús Guridi with lyrics by Federico Romero and Guillermo FernándezShaw, is a delightful musical journey that takes the listener through the idyllic countryside of Basque Country. The album, performed by the Bilbao Symphony Orchestra under the baton of Juanjo Mena, features a talented cast of soloists who bring the colorful characters of the story to life.

The album opens with a lively overture that sets the tone for the rest of the recording. The orchestra's playing is crisp and precise, capturing the energy and excitement of the music. The first vocal number, "La tarántula," is a crowd-pleaser with its catchy melody and playful lyrics. Soprano Ainhoa Arteta shines in the role of Idoia, the young woman at the center of the story, and her duets with tenor Andeka Gorrotxategi, who plays the lovestruck Txomin, are highlights of the album.

The rest of the album is filled with memorable arias, duets, and ensemble numbers that showcase the talents of the entire cast. The chorus, in particular, is impressive, providing a rich and vibrant backdrop to the soloists. The music is infused with the folk traditions of Basque Country, and the orchestra brings out the nuances of Guridi's score with sensitivity and skill.

Summary by Shiv Singh

El Caserío is a charming and entertaining album that will appeal to fans of zarzuela and lovers of classical music alike. The performances are top-notch, and the music is a joy to listen to. Whether you're familiar with the story or not, this recording is sure to transport you to the picturesque landscapes of Basque Country and leave you humming the tunes long after the music has stopped.