“The sensation is that you are actually right there in the studio with Callas herself. In comparison to earlier masters of this material, she sounds less abstractly ‘divine’ and more approachably human.” Our Own JJ reviews the massive collection Maria Callas Remastered: The Complete Studio Recordings (1949-1969)
for his regular column in the New York Observer.
Divina, deconstructed
“The sensation is that you are actually right there in the studio with Callas herself.”
By La Cieca La Cieca
James Jorden (who wrote under the names "La Cieca" and "Our Own JJ") was the founder and editor of parterre box. During his 20 year career as an opera critic he wrote for the New York Times, Opera, Gay City News, Opera Now, Musical America and the New York Post. He also raised his voice in punditry on National Public Radio. From time to time he directed opera, including three unsuccessful productions of Don Giovanni. He also contributed a regular column on opera for the New York Observer. James died in October 2023.
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