For some bizarre reason only failing marketing execs know, this fascinating reading of Dutchman has been sitting, unreleased, in DG's vaults since 1991. The performance is, to be sure, unorthodox: Even if one argues, correctly, that this is Wagner's most Italianate opera (and that he was writing treatises in defense of Bellini at the time), the sheer "Italian-ness" of Sinopoli's reading is certain to amaze. The long melodies are emphasized, legato is ever-present (Senta's opening humming actually sounds like Bellini), rubato is thick, and even the singers' diction seems to be (purposefully) soft. Bernd Weikl, with a voice ideally about only 2/3 the weight really needed for the role, sings a highly nuanced, interesting Dutchman, and Cheryl Studer's Senta, while lacking the insane intensity Rysanek brought to the role, is weirdly, wonderfully interior and sings up a storm. Placido Domingo is cookie-cutter ardent, singing with bright tone and little thought. Hans Sotin's Daland is dullish; Peter Seiffert's Steersman is distinguished. Highest marks go to Sinopoli, though: Tempi are quick and tension is high, but there's never a feeling of being rushed, and dynamic markings are scrupulously observed. The chorus is super, as is the orchestra. Bellini's music, Wagner wrote, had "real passion." You'll find it here. --Robert Levine