One of the most characterful and hard-working countertenors of our time, Max Emanuel Cencic marks the 250th anniversary of the death of the prolific Nicola Porpora. A contemporary of Bach and Handel who also taught Haydn, Porpora wrote in excess of 50 operas and Cencic includes seven world-premiere recordings here. The variety, passion and virtuosity are deeply impressive, and it’s hard to imagine them being brought to life with more flair than on this album. But it’s also music to touch the heart with its sincerity and deep emotion. George Petrou and the excellent Armonia Atenea make ideal partners.