Handel, Base Voice, Hyperion

Christopher Purves is a true stage animal, and that innate instinct carries over to his recordings, which are theatrical in the best possible way. In 2012, he teamed up with Jonathan Cohen and his crack period ensemble Arcangelo for a recital of Handel arias, mining unexpected emotional variety and depth from the despots, fathers and patriarchs that make up the greater portion of the composer’s bass roles. Now the team reunites, exploring the corners of the repertoire and unearthing treasure.

Under Purves’ assured touch even the basest of arias takes on a golden sheen. Take cantata Nell’Africane Selve for example; an early work, it gives us...