This album isn’t just for fans of the counter-tenor’s voice – Franco Fagiolo being one of the stars in the market – but also for lovers of the airs from Handel’s operas, and any serious baroque orchestra enthusiast, the orchestra here being Il Pomo d’Oro. When you unite all these elements together in a recording, the result is spectacular. This record includes the thrills of big hits like “Ombra mai fu” from Serse or “Cara sposa” from Rinaldo, as well as a number of no-less-interesting rarities, which have the advantage of shining a light on the lesser played works of the caro Sassone. After all,Ariodante, Partenope, Imeneo and Oreste (the album covers the composer’s entire period of lyrical creativity) all have some great moments, and completely original airs, often loaded with the instrumental surprises that Handel arranged so well. And so, fans, if all three of the big elements are there – or if you are just curious to hear a very well made record – get stuck in!