This is the second release ever of Henzes famous Oratorio, after the release of the general rehearsal for the world first premiere from 1968 (which in the end did not take place anymore) by Deutsche Gramophon. Excellent sound technique, first class singers and orchestra (conducted by none other than Peter Eötvös) as well as a booklet containing detailed liner notes and the libretto contribute in making this album a very important testimony about the music of the 20th century.