“THE ROMANTIC HANDEL.” Faye Robinson, soprano; John...

“THE ROMANTIC HANDEL.” Faye Robinson, soprano; John Ostendorf, baritone; Brewer Chamber Orchestra conducted by Rudolph Palmer. Leonarda LPI 124. The title undoubtably refers to the love interest unifying this cantata collection. But with the dark vocal production and wide vibratos of Robinson and Ostendorf, “Romanticized Handel” might have served equally well. Ostendorf’s parts in the “Cor fedele” selections are more commonly sung by counter-tenors, and indeed, this repertory has become largely the province of the period-practice purists. Once past the heavy sound, these performances impress with technical neatness and considerable conviction.