PIANISTS, VERDI

VERDI: ARIAS FROM “LUISA MILLER,” “ERNANI,” “I DUE FOSCARI,” “IL TROVATORE,” “MACBETH,” “RIGOLETTO,” “LA TRAVIATA,” “ UN BALLO IN MASCHERA,” “LA FORZA DEL DESTINO.” Leo Nucci, baritone; National Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Richard Armstrong. London 410 159-1 (digital). With its ample thrust and keen sense of dynamic nuance, Nucci’s plush, edgy baritone would be welcome in any age, and even more so in this era. But the recital format, demanding almost instant characterization, finds the Italian artist at a disadvantage, attacking these eight Verdi roles with the very same cultivated and generalized warmth (distraught fathers would appear to suit him better than vengeful parents). Blowzy accompaniments.