This new recording of Janacek's harrowing study of repression, infanticide and redemption was taped live during the opening run of Olivier Tambosi's controversial Covent Garden production in 2001.

Sadly, its considerable musical strengths don't always transfer to disc. Both Anja Silja's terrifying Kostlnicka and Jerry Hadley's sexually brutal Steva seem monochrome without the physical theatricality that made them so overwhelming on stage.

Conductor Bernard Haitink, meanwhile, is lyrical and reflective, rarely shredding your nerves. Karita Mattila, on the other hand, sings the title role as if born to it, while Jorma Silvasti, guilt-ridden yet rapturous, is the best Laca imaginable.

Fans of either artist needn't hold back - although anyone wanting to experience the full power should look elsewhere.