Poulenc: Dialogues des Carmelites

Dialogues of the Carmelites is known in particular for its finale, where Poulenc uses strange and surreal musical voices to stunningly direct and emotional ends. Kent Nagano’s recording avoids overselling, opting instead for clarity and attention to detail. His careful shading and pacing, very audible in the finale, ultimately magnify the strange power of Poulenc’s score.