American mezzo-soprano Jamie Barton is a rising star, that’s for sure. With a rich, opulent instrument that puts you in mind of the great Stephanie Blythe, she’s a thoughtful, dramatically attuned artist whose debut recording heralds great things. First coming to international attention as the winner of the 2013 Cardiff Singer of the World, her career has been going from to strength in recent years, with upcoming engagements including big girl roles like Azucena and Fricka.

The Sibelius miniatures are the real winners on this disc, showing off Barton’s evenly produced, gleaming sound, as well as her innate gift for communication. Rich in detail and with a variety of tonal colour,...