The German CPO label has distinguished itself during the Strauss anniversary, first with its new recording of Josephslegende, and now with this fine performance of Intermezzo, the composer’s autobiographical 1924 opera, depicting a period of strain in his own marriage. It’s a darker interpretation than any we’ve previously heard. The Strausses’ feuding alter egos, Christine and Robert Storch, are played by Simone Schneider and Markus Eiche – bigger-voiced, more dramatic singers than their predecessors – with the result that what is often presented as a sad comedy of misunderstandings becomes something altogether more troubling and abrasive. Ulf Schirmer’s conducting is formidable. But apart from veteran mezzo Brigitte Fassbaender, who has fun with a series of speaking parts as the Storchs’ put-upon servants, the minor roles are less expertly taken. It’s not ideal, but it makes you rethink the piece itself from scratch, and is highly recommended.
