“

This superb 1928 studio recording is a sonically satisfying labor of love. The singers are beyond reproach, beginning with Raymonde Visconti, the possessor of a supple, lyric mezzo-soprano voice, utterly expressive 100% of the time, a true singing actress. Partnering her is the great Georges Thill, arguably the finest Don José of his generation. The Orchestre Symphonique de Paris and the Chorus of the Opéra Comique are conducted by Elie Cohen in a first class performance that lets one get a hint of how French opera ought to be sung.

” —Rafael de Acha

“

These artists know by nature than the text is as important as the music: all the principals play with the words in a way quite lost . The excellent transfers added to my pleasure in a set I had never encountered before. I recommend it as a second version in any reputable collection of French opera.

” —Alan Blyth

“

This classic recording… truly takes its place amongst the great Carmens of all time. It is hard to find a better version. The aura of Francophile experience permeates every single note… you cannot really go wrong. The orchestral playing truly comes alive in the fine remastering. Divine Art’s new Historic Sound Series is fast becoming one of the major labels in this much sought after genre and this Carmen deserves every success.

” —Gerald Fenech

“

The sound is exceptional… there are no hisses or scratches, just clear singing. [The singers are] all here in fine voice. It’s quite amazing to listen to something recorded nearly 80 years ago and find it as fresh as if it were pressed yesterday

” —Judith Monk

“

The reasons for buying this set are threefold: Georges Thill, the excellent orchestra and the main conductor, Elie Cohen. Thill is magnificent as ever. Full marks for presentation.

” —Tully Potter

“

Thill is the most marvellous singer here but there are at least two other performances of some stature. The transfers sound very well. We have texts, a plot summary and artist biographies… a most worthwhile addition to the catalogue

” —Jonathan Woolf

“

The transfer to CD is of such naturalness and quality that the voice of Georges Thill appears remarkably present and clear… a welcome historical re-issue characterised especially by the incomparable presence of Georges Thill.

” —Michel Tibbaut

“

issued by the worthy little company Divine Art…Guénot has an open sound… Nespoulous is a bright-voiced Micaela, neat and accurate. To José, Thill brings stylish vocalising… and is intense in the final scene. Divine Art’s transfer is very clear.

” —John T. Hughes

“

Very often, a vintage recording affords only historical interest; sometimes there is great artistic merit also involved. The 1928 recording of Georges Bizet’s Carmen has a little of each. However, it is the Don Jose of the nearly legendary tenor George Thill that is the major attraction of this set. It is so good to hear that role sung by a Frenchman for starters, and one with that Thill thrill for good measure. He is what gives value to this set and why I can recommend it for those who are interested in this wonderful tenor.

” —Frank Behrens