Just when we think we’ve heard every take on Handel’s classic, along comes a new recording by Emmanuelle Haïm. With impeccable soloists (notably soprano Lucy Crowe), chorus, and orchestra, Haïm approaches every movement with subtle (sparks sizzle and pop underneath “Refiner’s Fire”) and not-so-subtle (extreme terrace dynamics and vocal trills in “Hallelujah”) finesse. In all, a refreshing drink of new wine from an old wineskin. Hallelujah! (Erato/Warner Classics)
