A performance full of interest and vividly communicative artistry.

As an overall collection of American songs presented at a very high level, this one is far above the norm. Moore’s partner, Bradley Moore (no relation), is an experienced conductor and pianist who specializes in vocal and American music, and he contributes lyrical, warm playing.

Melody Moore’s ‘An American Song Album’ feels personal and custom-made for her ample lirico spinto instrument. And that’s always a good place to start. She can thunder darkly, she can float, she can spin – she has the full expressive armoury. But, more importantly, the choices here plainly mean something to her and there’s no mistaking the high level of engagement that sets the best of them apart.

This debut solo recital the American spinto soprano is an absolute joy: sensitively captured by Pentatone’s engineers, Moore’s big, bright voice can do everything, from exquisitely-controlled pianissimo high notes (try the end of the third Hermit Song) to the full-throttle climax of Floyd’s At Dawn. She’s the warmest, most natural of communicators, and her diction’s a model of clarity throughout her wide range.

This recording is a calling card for a genuinely exciting and electric voice, solidly gleaming, with the high range of a soprano but fleshed out with dark, mezzo-ish colours and with its voluptuous richness focused into singing of striking directness and clarity.