Verdi: Aida (complete opera recorded in 1959)

"One immediately registers the sheer size of Tebaldi's soprano on her entry and if there is occasionally some incipient scratchiness on high notes, the compensations in terms of weight and beauty of tone are many; one is reminded of Björling's famous observation that "singing with Tebaldi was like singing with two sopranos". She might not have Callas' way with the text but her dramatic commitment is not in doubt; her soft singing is a dream and she floats a lovely line. Apparently she was at odds with Karajan regarding his slower tempi but she rose to his challenge.

MacNeil makes a powerful, straightforward Amonasro, magnificently vocalised; again, the sheer amplitude of his baritone amazes.

Simionato is a fierce Amneris, especially now that she is a more mature artist than she was for Gui, but manages to soften her tone for her more lovelorn moments and her mezzo is in fine shape.
Corena as the King is firmer here than he was for Erede and it's good to have the ubiquitous Piero
De Palma as the Messenger.

This has held its place in the hierarchy for the sixty years since its issue" (MusicWeb)