Gratifying yet mundane Rameau opera

Some pros and cons in this recording of Rameau's opera, Castor and Pollux, in which Mallon conducts the Arcadia Ensemble

Composer: Rameau
Repertoire: Castor et Pollux
Artists: Ainsworth, Whicher, Hopkins, Arcadia Ensemble/Kevin Mallon
Rating: 3/5
Genre: Opera
Label: Naxos 8.660018-19

The drama in Rameau’s opera about twin brothers Castor and Pollux, who act selflessly on each other’s behalf, is minimal but there are some beautiful dances. The Act III gavotte is especially sensuous. The Canadian company and period orchestra conducted by Kevin Mallon play with infectious rhythm. One switches off in the recits unless tenor Colin Ainsworth’s Castor is singing. The part lies high but he is creamy among the leger lines.