Amore Dolore

April 2023
In the realm of classical music, countertenors have been fervently vying to step into the shoes of renowned vocalists like Jaroussky and Scholl. In his sophomore album release, “Amore Dolore,” Nicolò Balducci not only stands out from the throng of young countertenors but also establishes himself as a formidable force in the world of Baroque vocal artistry. Balducci’s carefully curated selection of material on this album masterfully accentuates his vocal prowess and distinctive style.

One of the album’s striking attributes is its fresh repertoire, which sets it apart from the ordinary. Balducci delves into compositions by lesser-known Baroque luminaries such as Riccardo Broschi and Egidio Romualdo Duni. Alongside these hidden gems, Balducci breathes new life into some lesser-explored Vivaldi arias. The orchestral backdrop provided by the Baroque Academy Gothenburg Symphony, under the dynamic direction of Dan Laurin, adds a vibrant and exhilarating layer to the recording. Laurin’s own expertise as a recorder virtuoso seamlessly integrates with the ensemble’s spirited performance, as evidenced in Vivaldi’s “Sol da te, mio dolce amore” from Orlando Furioso.

However, the true centerpiece of “Amore Dolore” is undoubtedly Nicolò Balducci himself. While there may be more powerful and purely beautiful countertenor voices in the domain, Balducci possesses an elusive quality that sets him apart—a sense of spontaneous expression reminiscent of the allure that once captivated audiences during the era of the castrati. Balducci employs a distinctive technique of opening phrases with a no-vibrato edge, daringly extending them beyond the comfort zone before allowing his voice to unfurl in opulent bloom. His vocal flair, characterized by subtle yips and entrancing whoops interwoven with the notated lines, adds an enchanting layer to his interpretations.

Unlike some of his self-absorbed contemporaries, Balducci demonstrates a keen sensitivity to the textual nuances of the works he performs. His meticulous attention to the lyrical content enhances the emotional resonance of his renditions. Furthermore, Balducci’s vocal agility shines brilliantly, as exemplified in his rendition of Vivaldi’s “Nel profondo cieco mondo” from Orlando Furioso, where he skillfully navigates the depths and heights of the piece with remarkable precision.

The material chosen for “Amore Dolore” serves as an ideal canvas upon which Balducci’s talents are beautifully painted. The resulting performances are nothing short of captivating, although the only minor quibble lies in the occasionally over-resonant church acoustic that subtly detracts from an otherwise impeccable auditory experience.

 Nicolò Balducci’s “Amore Dolore” is a testament to his burgeoning status as a countertenor to watch. His distinctive vocal approach, artful interpretation, and thoughtful selection of repertoire converge to create a compelling musical journey. As Balducci continues to refine his craft, his future endeavors hold the promise of further enriching the world of Baroque vocal music.