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A musical treasure-box
a beautiful journey into melancholy

Dowland - The Collected Works / The Consort of Musicke, Rooley
John Dowland , Anthony Rooley , Emma Kirkby , Christopher Wilson , The Consort of Musicke , Colin Tilney , Anthony Bailes , Jakob Lindberg , Nigel North , Glenda Simpson , Peter Holman , and John Donne
Manufacturer: Decca
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000004CYV
Release Date: 2007-03-13

Tracks:

First Booke Of Songes: I. Unquiet Thoughts
First Booke Of Songes: II. Who Ever Thinks Or Hopes Of Love
First Booke Of Songes: III. My Thoughts Are Wing'd With Hopes
First Booke Of Songes: IV. If My Complaints Could Passions Move
First Booke Of Songes: V. Can She Excuse My Wrongs
First Booke Of Songes: VI. Now, O Now, I Needs Must Part
First Booke Of Songes: VII. Dear, If You Change
First Booke Of Songes: VIII. Burst Fourth My Tears
First Booke Of Songes: IX. Go Crystal Tears
First Booke Of Songes: X. Think'st Thou Then By Thy Feigning
First Booke Of Songes: XI. Come Away, Come Sweet Love
First Booke Of Songes: XII. Rest Awhile, You Cruel Cares
First Booke Of Songes: XIII. Sleep, Wayward Thoughts
First Booke Of Songes: XIV. All Ye, Whom Love Or Fortune Hath Betray'd
First Booke Of Songes: XV. Wilt Thou Unkind Thus Reave Me
First Booke Of Songes: XVI. Would My Conceit
First Booke Of Songes: XVII. Come Again: Sweet Love Doth Now Invite
First Booke Of Songes: XVIII. His Golden Locks
First Booke Of Songes: XIX. Awake, Sweet Love
First Booke Of Songes: XX. Come, Heavy Sleep
First Booke Of Songes: XXI. Away With These Self-Loving Lads

Tracks:

Second Booke Of Songs: I. I Saw My Lady Weep
Second Booke Of Songs: II. Flow My Tears
Second Booke Of Songs: III. Sorrow, Stay
Second Booke Of Songs: IV. Die Not Before Thy Day
Second Booke Of Songs: V. Mourn, Mourn, Day Is With Darkness Fled
Second Booke Of Songs: VI. Time's Eldest Son
Second Booke Of Songs: VII. Then Sit Thee Down
Second Booke Of Songs: VIII. When Others Sing Venite
Second Booke Of Songs: IX. Praise Blindness Eyes
Second Booke Of Songs: X. O Sweet Woods
Second Booke Of Songs: XI. If Floods Of Tears
Second Booke Of Songs: XII. Fine Knacks For Ladies
Second Booke Of Songs: XIII. Now Cease My Wand'ring Eyes
Second Booke Of Songs: XIV. Come Ye Heavy States Of Night
Second Booke Of Songs: XV. White As Lilies Was Her Face
Second Booke Of Songs: XVI. Woeful Heart
Second Booke Of Songs: XVII. A Shepherd In A Shade
Second Booke Of Songs: XVIII. Faction That Ever Dwells
Second Booke Of Songs: XIX. Shall I Sue
Second Booke Of Songs: XX. Toss Not My Soul
Second Booke Of Songs: XXI. Clear Or Cloudy
Second Booke Of Songs: XXII. Humour Say What Mak'st Thou Here

Tracks:

Third Booke Of Songs 1603: I. Farewell, Too Fair
Third Booke Of Songs 1603: II. Time Stands Still
Third Booke Of Songs 1603: III. Behold A Wonder Here
Third Booke Of Songs 1603: IV. Daphne Was Not So Chaste
Third Booke Of Songs 1603: V. Me, Me, And None But Me
Third Booke Of Songs 1603: VI. When Phoebus First Did Daphne Love
Third Booke Of Songs 1603: VII. Say, Love, If Ever Thou Didst Find
Third Booke Of Songs 1603: VIII. Flow Not So Fast, Ye Fountains
Third Booke Of Songs 1603: IX. What If I Never Speed?
Third Booke Of Songs 1603: X. Love Stood Amazed
Third Booke Of Songs 1603: XI. Lend Your Ears To My Sorrow
Third Booke Of Songs 1603: XII. By A Fountain Where I Lay
Third Booke Of Songs 1603: XIII. O What Hath Overwrought
Third Booke Of Songs 1603: XIV. Farewell, Unkind
Third Booke Of Songs 1603: XV. Weep You No More, Sad Fountains
Third Booke Of Songs 1603: XVI. Fie On This Feigning!
Third Booke Of Songs 1603: XVII. I Must Complain
Third Booke Of Songs 1603: XVIII. It Was A Time When Silly Bees
Third Booke Of Songs 1603: XIX. The Lowest Trees Have Tops
Third Booke Of Songs 1603: XX. What Poor Astronomers Are They
Third Booke Of Songs 1603: XXI. Come When I Call

Tracks:

A Pilgrimes Solace: I. Disdain Me Still
A Pilgrimes Solace: II. Sweet Stay Awhile
A Pilgrimes Solace: III. To Ask For All Thy Love
A Pilgrimes Solace: IV. Love, Those Beams That Breed
A Pilgrimes Solace: V. Shall I Strive Wih Words To Move?
A Pilgrimes Solace: VI. Were Every Thought An Eye
A Pilgrimes Solace: VII. Stay, Time, Awhile Thy Flying
A Pilgrimes Solace: VIII. Tell Me, True Love
A Pilgrimes Solace: IX. Go Nightly Cares
A Pilgrimes Solace: X. From Silent Night
A Pilgrimes Solace: XI. Lasso vita mia
A Pilgrimes Solace: XII. In This Trembling Shadow Cast
A Pilgrimes Solace: XIII. If That A Sinner's Sights
A Pilgrimes Solace: XIV. Thou Mighty God
A Pilgrimes Solace: XV. When David's Life
A Pilgrimes Solace: XVI. When The Poor Cripple

Tracks:

A Pilgrimes Solace: XVII. Where Sin Sore Wounding
A Pilgrimes Solace: XVIII. My Heart And Tongue Were Twins
A Pilgrimes Solace: XIX. Up Merry Mates
A Pilgrimes Solace: XX. Welcome Black Night
A Pilgrimes Solace: XXI. Cease, Cease These False Sports
Keyboard Transcriptions Of Dowland's Music By Other Musicians: Lachrimae Pavane
Keyboard Transcriptions Of Dowland's Music By Other Musicians: Can Shee
Keyboard Transcriptions Of Dowland's Music By Other Musicians: Paduana
Keyboard Transcriptions Of Dowland's Music By Other Musicians: The Frogge
Keyboard Transcriptions Of Dowland's Music By Other Musicians: Frog's Galliard
Keyboard Transcriptions Of Dowland's Music By Other Musicians: Pavana And Galiarda
Keyboard Transcriptions Of Dowland's Music By Other Musicians: Paduana Lachrymae
Keyboard Transcriptions Of Dowland's Music By Other Musicians: Can She Excuse
Keyboard Transcriptions Of Dowland's Music By Other Musicians: Pavion Solus cum sola
Keyboard Transcriptions Of Dowland's Music By Other Musicians: Dowland's Almayne
Keyboard Transcriptions Of Dowland's Music By Other Musicians: Piper's Paven And Galliard
Keyboard Transcriptions Of Dowland's Music By Other Musicians: Pavan Lachrymae

Tracks:

Mr. Henry Noell Lamentations: I. The Lamentation Of A Sinner
Mr. Henry Noell Lamentations: II. Domine ne in furore
Mr. Henry Noell Lamentations: III. Miserere mei Deus
Mr. Henry Noell Lamentations: IV. The Humble Suit Of A Sinner
Mr. Henry Noell Lamentations: V. The Humble Complaint Of A Sinner
Mr. Henry Noell Lamentations: VI. De profundis
Mr. Henry Noell Lamentations: VII. Domine exaudi
Lachrimae: Lachrimae Antiquae
Lachrimae: Lachrimae Antiquae Novae
Lachrimae: Lachrimae Gementes
Lachrimae: Lachrimae Tristes
Lachrimae: Lachrimae Coactae
Lachrimae: Lachrimae Amantis
Lachrimae: Lachrimae Verae
Lachrimae: Mr. John Langton's Pavan
Lachrimae: Mr. Nicholas Gryffith His Galiard
Lachrimae: Sir John Souch His Galiard
Lachrimae: Semper Dowland Semper Dolens
Lachrimae: Mr. Giles Hobies Galiard
Lachrimae: The King Of Denmark's Galiard
Lachrimae: Sir Henry Umpton's Funerall
Lachrimae: Mr. Henry Noell His Galiard
Lachrimae: The Earl Of Essex Galiard
Lachrimae: Mr. Bucton His Galiard
Lachrimae: Mr. George Whitehead His Almand
Lachrimae: Captain Digorie Piper His Galiard
Lachrimae: Mr. Thomas Collier His Galiard
Lachrimae: Mrs. Nichols Almand

Tracks:

Sacred Songs: Sorrow, Come!
Sacred Songs: I Shame At Mine Unworthiness
Sacred Songs: An Heart That's Broken And Contrite
Psalms: Psalm 100: All People That On Earth Do Dwell
Psalms: Psalm 38: Put Me Not To Rebuke O Lord
Psalms: Psalm 130: Lord To Thee I Make My Moan
Psalms: Psalm 104: My Soul Praise The Lord
Psalms: Psalm 100: All People That On Earth Do Dwell
Psalms: Psalm 134: Behold And Have Regard
A Prayer For The Queen's Most Excellent Majesty
Instrumental Music: Solus cum sola pavan
Instrumental Music: Lachrimae
Instrumental Music: Galliard
Instrumental Music: Pipers Pavan
Instrumental Music: Lachrimae
Instrumental Music: Lady Rich Galliard
Instrumental Music: Earl Of Essex Galliard
Instrumental Music: If My Complaints
Instrumental Music: Lachrimae Doolande
Instrumental Music: Lord Willoughbie's Welcome Home
Instrumental Music: My Lord Chamberlaine His Galliard
Instrumental Music: Comagain
Instrumental Music: Pavan Lachrymae
Instrumental Music: Sorrow Stay

Tracks:

Lute Music: Preludium
Lute Music: Lachrimae
Lute Music: Can She Excuse
Lute Music: Dr. Case's Pavan
Lute Music: Melancholy Galliard
Lute Music: Sir John Smith, His Almain
Lute Music: Fantasia
Lute Music: A Dream
Lute Music: Almain
Lute Music: The Queen's Galliard
Lute Music: Coranto
Lute Music: Resolution
Lute Music: Mrs. Vaux Galliard
Lute Music: Almain
Lute Music: Mr. Dowland's MIdnight
Lute Music: Fantasia
Lute Music: Loth To Depart
Lute Music: The Most Sacred Queen Elizabeth, Her Galliard
Lute Music: The Earl Of Essex, His Galliard
Lute Music: Pavan
Lute Music: John Dowland's Galliard
Lute Music: Aloe
Lute Music: The Lady Clifton's Spirit
Lute Music: What If A Day
Lute Music: Mr. Giles Hobie's Galliard
Lute Music: Come Away (Song arrangement)
Lute Music: Galliard
Lute Music: Fancy (Fantasia)

Tracks:

Lute Music: Lachrimae (Basic Version)
Lute Music: Galliard To Lachrimae
Lute Music: [Jig]
Lute Music: Galliard On 'Wasingham'
Lute Music: Complaint (Ballad Setting)
Lute Music: Mignarda (Galliard)
Lute Music: Semper Dowland Semper Dolens (Pavan)
Lute Music: The Frog Galliard
Lute Music: A Fancy (Fantasia)
Lute Music: Fancy (Fantasia)
Lute Music: Piper's Pavan
Lute Music: Captain Digorie Piper's Galliard
Lute Music: Lady Laiton's Almain
Lute Music: Dowland's Galliard
Lute Music: Dowland's First Galliard
Lute Music: Tarleton's Jig
Lute Music: Walsingham (ballad Setting)
Lute Music: Lord Willoughbie's Welcome Home (Ballad Setting)
Lute Music: Sir Henry Guilforde, His Almain
Lute Music: Pavan (Related To 'Lachrimae')
Lute Music: Mr. Langton's Galliard
Lute Music: Mrs. Clifton's Almain
Lute Music: Galliard
Lute Music: Lady Hunsdon's Puffe (Almain)
Lute Music: Galliard
Lute Music: Go From My Window (Ballad Setting)
Lute Music: Fancy (Fantasia)

Tracks:

Lute Music: Pavana Johan Douland
Lute Music: Mrs. Brigide Fleetwood's Pavan (Solus sine sola)
Lute Music: La mia Barbara
Lute Music: Sir Henry Umpton's Funeral (Pavan)
Lute Music: Lachrimae
Lute Music: Farewell Fancy (Chromatic Fantasia)
Lute Music: Farewell (On The 'In Nomine' Theme)
Lute Music: The King of Denmark's Galliard
Lute Music: Mrs. Vaux's Jig
Lute Music: Mrs. Nichol's Almain
Lute Music: Galliard
Lute Music: Lord Strang's March
Lute Music: Mrs. Winter's Jump
Lute Music: Can She Excuse (Galliard)
Lute Music: The Shoemaker's Wife, A Toy
Lute Music: Mrs. Norrish's Delight
Lute Music: Galliard
Lute Music: Mrs. White's Thing (Almain)
Lute Music: Mrs. White's Nothing
Lute Music: The Frog Galliard
Lute Music: Solus cum sola
Lute Music: The Lord Viscount Lisle, His Galliard
Lute Music: Orlando Sleepeth (Ballad Setting)
Lute Music: Robin (Ballad Setting)
Lute Music: Galliard (On A Galliard By Daniel Bacheler)
Lute Music: Forlorn Hope Fancy (Chromatic Fantasia)

Tracks:

Lute Music: The Lady Russell's Pavan
Lute Music: Fancy (Fantasia)
Lute Music: Sir John Langton's Pavan
Lute Music: Earl Of Derby, His Galliard
Lute Music: A Coy Toy
Lute Music: Fortune My Foe
Lute Music: [Almain]
Lute Music: Mr. Knight's Galliard
Lute Music: Sir John Souch His Galliard
Lute Music: Tarletone's Riserrectione
Lute Music: The Lady Rich, Her Galliard
Consort Music: Lachrimae Pavan
Consort Music: Can She Excuse Galliard
Consort Music: Captain Piper's Pavan And Galliard
Consort Music: The Frog Galliard
Consort Music: Round Battell Galliard
Consort Music: Fortune My Foe
Consort Music: Dowland's First Galliard
Consort Music: Katherine Darcie's Galliard
Consort Music: Tarleton's Jigge
Consort Music: Almain a 2
Consort Music: Mistress Nichols Almain a 2
Fullsack And Hildebrandt: Auserlesener Paduanen und Galliarden: Susanna Fair (Galliard)
Haussmann: Rest von polnischen und andern Tanzen: Mistress Nichols Alman a 5
Opusculum: Mr. John Langton Pavan And Galliard
Opusculum: La mia Barbara Pavan and Galliard
Opusculum: Lachrimae Antiquae Novae Pavan and Galliard

Tracks:

Consort Music: Mistress NIchols Almain
Consort Music: Volta a 4 ('Ioh. Douland')
Consort Music: Were Every Thought an Eye
Consort Music: Lady If You So Spite Me
Consort Music: Pavan a 4
A Musicall Banquet: I. My Heavy Sprite (Anthony Holborne)
A Musicall Banquet: II. Change Thy Mind Since She Doth Change (Richard Martin)
A Musicall Banquet: III. O Eyes, Leave Off Your Weeping (Robert Hales)
A Musicall Banquet: IV. Go, My Flock, Go Get You Hence (Anon.)
A Musicall Banquet: V. O Dear Life, When Shall It Be? (Anon.)
A Musicall Banquet: VI. To Plead My Faith (Daniel Bacheler)
A Musicall Banquet: VII. In A Grove Most Rich Of Shade (Guillaume Tessier)
A Musicall Banquet: VIII. Far From Triumphing Court
A Musicall Banquet: IX. Lady, If You So Spite Me
A Musicall Banquet: X. In Darkness Let Me Dwell
A Musicall Banquet: XI. Si le parler et le silence (Pierre Guedron)
A Musicall Banquet: XII. Ce penser qui sans fin tirannise ma vie (Pierre Guedron)
A Musicall Banquet: XIII. Vous que le Bonheur rappelle (Pierre Guedron)
A Musicall Banquet: XIV. Passava Amor su arco desarmado (Anon. Spanish)
A Musicall Banquet: XV. Sta notte mi sognava (Anon. Italian)
A Musicall Banquet: XVI. Vuestros ojos tienen d'Amor (Anon. Spanish)
A Musicall Banquet: XVII. Se di farmi morire (Domenico Maria Megli)
A Musicall Banquet: XVIII. Dovro dunque morire? (Giulio Caccini)
A Musicall Banquet: XIX. Amarilli mia bella (Giulio Caccini)
A Musicall Banquet: XX. O bella piu (Anon, Italian)

Customer Reviews:

A musical treasure-box.......2006-09-10

Both the music and this actual product are masterpieces. John Dowland's collected works here - covering 12 compact discs - exhibit the depth and power of this composer, a composer who many now regard as suffering from clinical depression. I doubt that the issue of the diagnosis of Dowland's depression can ever be settled, however, it is certainly obvious from his music, so completely on display here, that he was a man with very dark depths and corners in his mind. Dowland's various manifestations and "takes" on his own tune, "Flow my tears"/"Lachrimae" are here. This tune has haunted me ever since I first heard it when I was a child. It seems to sum up Dowland's feelings - at least Dowland seems to have thought so.

The First, Second, Third and Fourth Bookes of Songes, A Musicall Banquet, the keyboard transcriptions, all the lute music, consort music are here and virtually everything else written or supposedly written by John Dowland. Anthony Rooley and The Consort of Musicke perform this music with style and feeling throughout. This 12 CD set is something of a monument to the ensemble - I only wish they'd finished their collection of Monteverdi madrigals, which was equally good (La Venexiana are currently doing a magnificent job of recording all Monteverdi's books of madrigals for the GLOSSA label).

This is an expensive set, however, you will probably never need to buy another John Dowland CD again after buying and listening to this collection.

I bought this CD set on a mild Summer evening of 1998 and listened to it while sitting in my sun room - which a glorious orange sunset in progress, and a glass of wine. It brought back so many memories.

a beautiful journey into melancholy.......2001-06-15

I'm amazed at how many people tend to associate John Dowland's music with a tragic sense of drama. While no doubt this is art highly based on sadness, the "tragic" sense of it is more a legacy from the Romantic period. During the Renaissance, however, sadness was undestood as a very aesthetic way of approaching life. That is also the reason why Shakespeare's tragedies appear more sophisticated than his comedies.

Dowland, a contemporary of Shakespeare, discovered that meditating on a sad theme is, at the same time, a way of discovering a special beauty that we tend to avoid (maybe because of the "tragic" heritage of the Romantics). So, in the end, meditating on sadness is an uplifting experience! This box set is a journey into melancholy that includes songs, chamber music, pieces for lute, some rare sacred music and -as a highlight- Dowland's beautiful collection of seven pieces for viola which he called "Lachrimae" (Tears).

Dowland: Flow My Tears and Other Lute Songs

Average customer rating:

exellent

Dowland: Flow My Tears and Other Lute Songs

Manufacturer: Naxos
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B0000014DL
Release Date: 2000-10-05

Tracks:

Lute Songs: Come Again: Sweet Love Doth Now Invite
Lute Songs: Flow My Tears
Lute Songs: Lady, If You So Spite Me
Lute Songs: In Darkness Let Me Dwell
Lute Songs: Melancholy Galliard
Lute Songs: Say Love If Ever Thou Did'st Find
Lute Songs: His Golden Locks
Lute Songs: Greensleeves Divisions
Lute Songs: If My Complaints Could Passions Move
Lute Songs: Time Stands Still
Lute Songs: Can She Excuse My Wrongs?
Lute Songs: Fortune My Foe
Lute Songs: I Saw My Lady Weep
Lute Songs: Wilt Thou Unkind Thus Reave Me?
Lute Songs: Stay Time Awhile Thy Flying
Lute Songs: Bonny Sweet Robin
Lute Songs: Me, Me, And None But Me
Lute Songs: Sorrow, Stay
Lute Songs: Fine Knacks For Ladies
Lute Songs: Kemp's Jig
Lute Songs: Callino
Lute Songs: When Phoebus First Did Daphne Love
Lute Songs: Think'st Thou Then By Thy Feigning?
Lute Songs: Galliards by Mary, Queen of Scots
Lute Songs: Now, O Now I Needs Must Part
Lute Songs: Come, Heavy Sleep

Customer Reviews:

exellent.......1999-02-03

Rickards beautiful, pure voice comes out so well in this cd. along with the wonderful sounds of the lute. I highly recommend this cd

Average customer rating:

Interesting music interestingly sung
The marriage of skill and magic
There is no such thing as too much Emma Kirkby
emma's pure and magical voice.
Voice of an Angel!

The Emma Kirkby Collection
Claudio Monteverdi , George Frideric Handel , Johann Sebastian Bach , Sigismondo D'India , John Dowland , Guillaume de Machaut , Hildegard of Bingen , Thomas Campion , Henry Lawes , Henry Purcell , Michael East , The Consort of Musicke , Taverner Consort Players , Roy Goodman , Anthony Rooley , Emma Kirkby , Christopher Page , Denys Darlow , Andrew Parrott , Parley of Instruments , London Handel Orchestra , Gothic Voices , David Reichenberg , and Instrumental Ensemble
Manufacturer: Hyperion UK
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000002ZJG
Release Date: 1993-11-12

Tracks:

Confiterbor tibi, Domine (Psalm 110)
Now Hath Flora Robbed Her Bowers
Stript Of Their Green Our groves Appear
Voglio di vita uscir
Piangono al pianger mio
Flow Not So Fast, Ye Fountains
Foy Porter
Columba aspexit
Sheep May Safely Graze
Time Stands Still
Diana
Quel squardo sdegnosetto
Maledetto sia l'aspetto
The Lark
Move Now With Measured Sound
Sharp Thorns Despising
Sich tiben im Lieben
You Meaner Beauties Of The Night

Customer Reviews:

Interesting music interestingly sung.......2007-02-01

Much of this vocal music is from an era with which I am unfamiliar. It ranges from the work of Hildegarde of Bergen (1098-1179) to Handel (1685-1759); obviously, this album covers much territory! Emma Kirkby displays her virtuosity on this CD. The notes from the CD say that "One of the favorite adjectives used by critics. . .is the word 'celestial.'" At a later point, the notes speak of Kirkby further: "There is a freshness, an openness, an honesty about her voice. . ."

Some comments on works randomly selected.

Monteverdi's "Confitebor tibi, Domine." Here, Kirkby displays a clean light voice. She exhibits a spirited "Gloria Patri" with some spare but interesting ornamentation.

Campion's "Now hath Flora robbed her bowers." This cut shows off to good effect the agility in her voice.

John Dowland, "Flow not so fast, ye fountains." Here is displayed her smooth voice; her singing flows smoothly from one note to the next. There is a poignancy in her singing on this piece.

Guillaume de Machaut, "Foy porter." She treats the redoubtable de Machaut well; his works are some of the best of his time. This is smoothly song and does his work justice.

Hildegarde of Birgen, "Columba aspexit." This is the oldest composition on this CD by far. The work is spare, but well sung. There is a hypnotic quality to the work and Kirkby sings it well.

Lawes, "The Lark." Again, nice agility of her voice is displayed.

Other compositions on this CD are by Purcell, J. S. Bach, Sigismondo d'India, and Handel.

All in all, a nice sampling of the work of Emma Kirkby. I was not much familiar with her work before listening to this CD, but I am delighted that I did purchase this work.

The marriage of skill and magic.......2007-01-12

Ms. Kirby's voice is limpid, exquisitely pitched, strong, and yet beautifully refined. Her command of her voice is extraordinary, with phrasing, delicate embellishments and what I think are some vocal cadenzas, all showing the skill and craft of an artist who has brought her artistry to its highest state. But she makes her artistry sound so easy, so natural: nothing of bravura, nothing forced here. The selections are wonderfully chosen; together, they give us the whole range of early to late Baroque, in every mood. Each listening refreshes the spirit. What an artist!

There is no such thing as too much Emma Kirkby.......2002-07-16

The only defect in this disk is that it isn't a three or four disk set. Some people don't appreciate her beautiful voice and I feel sorry for them. I first heard her voice live in a concert here in Ann Arbor in December of 1980 and she stunned me. The memory of her beautiful voice still lives in my mind and heart.

Well, this disk gives us 18 selections from a number of different composers from the Baroque. Every one of them is a treasure and has its own charms. I can't pick a favorite, but I can say that each of these pieces show off her voice and singing style in different ways.

Yes, I wish she had included more Purcell and something even nicer than what we have on track 3, but what would I give up? Well, that is where I say we need this to have been a two or three disk collection.

You won't go wrong with this wonderful disk!

emma's pure and magical voice........2000-10-16

This cd shows Emma's versatility as a Baroque and early music performer. Her pure voice matches the music so well. I really enjoy the song "You meaner beauties of the night." This is only one among many cd's which shows Emma's great voice. I highly recommend the Emma Kirkby collection.

Voice of an Angel!.......1999-07-20

One of the most beautiful angelic voice in the world! But I don't think this collection shows her best recording pieces.

Average customer rating:

I LOVE Howie

Where Time Stands Still
Howard McGillin
Manufacturer: Q&W Music
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

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ASIN: B00009RXJ9
Release Date: 2003-06-24

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My Romance/The Folks Who Live On The Hill
Isn't This A Lovely Day (To Be Caught In The Rain)
Not While I'm Around/Good Thing Going
Power Of Two
Why Did I Choose You?
Music Of The Night/Unexpected Song
I'll Tell The Man In The Street
I Have Dreamed
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Where Time Stands Still

Customer Reviews:

I LOVE Howie.......2005-02-28

I love this recording so much that I am thinking of having mine framed and then buying another one...very stylish. I had seen Howard as the phantom over Christmas of 2003 and was in one of those "state of shock" moments after. Then, I found out that he had a CD and man...did I ever go through the roof! I bought the CD and I think it has been playing on my stero since then (Jan 2004) non-stop.

The only reason I rated this item 4 stars instead of 5 was because I had wished that there were more phantom songs on it...but enough about that.

On this CD he has combined two of my favorite songs "the music of the night" and "unexpected song" in a rather interesting way and I have no clue how, but it just really worked...very creative idea. Even if you haven't heard Howard sing, well then you should buy this album...and if you have...well then you should buy ten of his CD's and give them to all of your friends.

Not only does Howard have a beautiful voice he is a pretty snazzy looking guy and if your looking for some good pictures of him...buy the CD and if your like me everytime you open the case you practically faint. I have already scanned in the cover and made a 30inch x 30inch poster of him and put it in my room. So, see all of the things that you can do with Howard's CD besides listen to it over and over and over. Buy the CD NOW!!!!!!!!!!!!

Average customer rating:

Impeccable singing - stylistically and technically
A must-have CD for an outstanding price

Daniel Taylor: Portrait
J.S. Bach , Suzie Le Blanc , Ensemble Da Sonar , Andreas Martin , and Sylvain Bergeron
Manufacturer: Atma Classique
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Oratorios | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

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Lamento
David Daniels - Serenade

ASIN: B00004TQPQ
Release Date: 2000-08-15

Tracks:

St. Matthew Passion, BWV 244/39: Erbarme Dich, Mein Gott
Time Stands Still
Come Again
Flow My Tears
I Saw My Lady Weep
King Arthur, Z.628: Fairest Isle
So Ceas'd The Rival Crew (An Ode On the Death Of Mr. Henry Purcell)
There Is No Rose Of Such Virtue
Easter Oratorio, BWV 249/8: Saget, Saget Mir Geschwinde

Amazon.com

There's been a good deal of fanfare heralding the re-emergence of a vocal species once considered endangered--namely, the countertenor. This portrait recital of one creamy-voiced exponent, Daniel Taylor, comprises the highlights of four previous recordings and shows to great advantage the various aspects of his remarkable voice. Bravely, Taylor begins the album with one of the greater challenges in the countertenor repertoire, "Erbarme dich," from Bach's St. Matthew Passion. His bravery pays off: this is a beautifully modulated account of a suffering soul crying out for comfort. He can hit a note with icy purity and warm it through with a careful vibrato, never letting the effect seem like a trick. His voice is not as full-on luscious as that of David Daniels, nor quite as melting as that of Andreas Scholl, but Taylor does have an intelligent approach to the drama of the music and a warm precision all his own. The Purcell selection (from On the Muse's Isle) and the Dowland songs (from Tears of the Muse) are exquisite; Taylor's delicately breathless account of "Come againe" only makes this naughty song all the more teasing. There is one disappointment--"Saget, saget" from Bach's Easter Oratorio--which is rushed and careless. But it's a blip on an otherwise beautiful album. --Warwick Thompson

Customer Reviews:

Impeccable singing - stylistically and technically.......2002-07-19

Although I mostly agree with the above reviewers, I do have a different opinion about Easter Oratorio, BWV 249/8. The speed of this aria may be on the fast side, but Dan is neither careless nor too rush. One should have a close look at the text itself as this is NOT a rhetorical dacapo aria from the Baroque opera. The text starts with the following phrase: "Saget, saget mir geschwinde" (Tell, tell me quickly). Then it continue to ask where one can find Jesus and declare his/her desire to be embraced by Him. It is appropriate to be in a slight haste to convey the urgent nature of the ardent desire.

As for "full-on luscious" nonsense, all I can say is Baroque repertoire is NOT a Wagnerian opera. Highly romanticized singing style has no place here. The phrasing, diction, voice colour (Stimmfaerbungand), and vibrato should be carefully chosen so that one can clearly communicate the composers' intention and message. If one wants to adhere to the musicological correctness, there should not be much vibrato for music before ~1800.

There is no week point in this sampler CD. It is impeccable all way through - stylistically and technically. If one wants to proceed from here, Dan's complete discography is available on the net. Just run a search with a keyword "daniel+taylor+discography" with Google.

A must-have CD for an outstanding price.......2001-08-04

I first read about Daniel Taylor on the SchollSociety messageboards and Amazon.com and I was intrigued. A Canadian countertenor with a voice comparable to Andreas Scholl's? ...I couldn't resist. I took it along on a three-hour bus ride to Tadoussac, Québec.

As the mournful opening strains of Erbarme Dich commenced, the haunting, sweeping violins and viol carried me along the winding roads through the mountains. The sky was overcast, and as I heard Taylor's voice for the first time the sun came out. I was in Heaven; beautiful vistas of mountains on one side, jagged cliffs plunging into the St. Laurent on the other and Daniel Taylor's voice in my ears. Erbarme Dich is deep, passionate, and so achingly beautiful. I am an avid lover of Bach but it was the first time I had heard anything from St. Matthew's Passion. I was more familiar with many of the other Dowland songs: Time Stands Still, Come Again, Flow My Tears, and I Saw My Lady Weep, all of which are present on Andreas Scholl's "English Folksongs and Lute Songs."

I have to disagree with the reviewer: the words "full-on luscious" and "David Daniels" should never go in the same sentence in my humble opinion. David Daniel's tone, to my delicate ears, is completely mezzo-soprano, lacking the delicacy of Scholl, Mera, and Taylor, and with poor vibrato control on the top notes. Yes, Daniels can turn out a beautiful tune but at times it sounds like a painful effort.... But I digress. On to Daniel Taylor's voice. Exquisite. Haunting. Ethereal. A creamy, lush, pure sound, more feminine than Scholl's tone, reminiscent of brilliant Japanese countertenor Yoshikazu Mera. As with Scholl, the effect sounds effortless and angelic. His vibrato is carefully controlled, his coloratura impeccable, his diction is perfect. My only disappointment with this CD was track 9, Saget, Saget, which, as reviewer Warwick Thompson stated, is rushed and careless. It sounds like Taylor and the orchestra are racing and they don't match pace frequently. But that didn't spoil my enjoyment of what is undoubtedly a remarkable album at a giveaway price. I hope that someday Daniel Taylor will receive the worldwide recognition he deserves and become better known outside of Canada. He has recorded Bach arias, Dowland, a fascinating Christmas album called "L'étoile d'orient" which includes the song "Ding dong merrily on high," and Rinaldo with Cecilia Bartoli. He also had a cameo in the recent Canadian film "Five Senses." "Daniel Taylor: Portrait" is an excellent introduction to an amazing talent. Ten stars.

Average customer rating:

really good cd
Unassuming, confidently soaring voice
Simply Terrific
In a Romantic Mood -- This CD is a Must-Have!
A Voice and Album Worth Hearing

Where Time Stands Still

ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Pop | Styles | Music

General | Pop | Indie Music | Stores | Music
ASIN: B00005U8UJ
Release Date: 2001-11-27

Tracks:

My Romance / The Folks Who Live on the Hill
Isn't This A Lovely Day (To Be Caught In the Rain)
Not While I'm Around / Good Thing Going
Power of Two
Why Did I Choose You?
The Music of the Night / Unexpected Song
I'll Tell the Man in the Street
I Have Dreamed
All The Things You Are
Time
The Secret O' Life
Lucky To Be Me
Two For the Road
Where Time Stands Still

Album Description

Songs of life and romance by some of the greatest songwriters of our time in the long-awaited debut solo CD of a singer who has been hailed as "the quintessential leading man for our time...in vocal brilliance and beauty." Broadway's current 'Phantom of the Opera' gives you his personal "Music of the Night" in an album of the best of Broadway and popular music.

Customer Reviews:

really good cd.......2004-07-20

Howard has a great voice. id recommend this cd to anyone. He has a great voice for broadway a nice storng and even singing voice that can be really emotional. Id highly reommend it

Unassuming, confidently soaring voice.......2004-01-04

Howard McGillin's album is show-tune vocal display. McGillin's trained voice reminds you of Matt Bogart, Simon Bowman, John Barrowman and Sean McDermott (all of these guys played Chris in "Miss Saigon" variously). The voice McGillin uses is unpretentious like the abovementioned gentlemen and can be touching in ways that will surprise you. Like his version of James Taylor's rarely performed "The Secret O' Life" and even the Indigo Girls' "Power of Two". His best moments are in showtunes like "I'll Tell The Man in the Street" and Sondheim's "Not While I'm Around;" the latter dovetailed into "Good Thing Going". He is less effective in older showtunes like Irving Berlin's "Isn't This a Lovely Day" -- one should not oversing this song because the wit might be dissipated. But the other older showtune he is more successful is "All The Things You Are" -- after all this song was first sung onstage by Gordon McRae, a baritone whose voice more than resembles McGillin's. On a personal level, I rarely find an album where my two favorite songs are sung (except in Andrea Marcovicci's "Sings Movies"): "Two for the Road" and "The Folks Who Live on the Hill". While there are other male crooners and theatre-trained singers whom everyone may like, McGillin will please almost everyone who likes their music free of melismatic vocal flights.

Simply Terrific.......2003-09-22

This is the type of recording that works its way into your unconscious, so that you begin hearing it in your head, and often at the oddest times. Howard McGillin is a Broadway veteran (The Mystery of Edwin Drood, Anything Goes, Phantom of the Opera) with a haunting tenor sound that caresses the notes, and an actor's insight that adds poignant depth to classics like "My Romance," "Not While I'm Around," "Lucky To Be Me," and especially "Why Did I Choose You?" Non-show songs include James Taylor's "The Meaning of Life" and two new (to me) gems, "Power of Two" and "Time." Outstanding in every respect--including the wonderful instrumental backing.

In a Romantic Mood -- This CD is a Must-Have!.......2003-07-05

My husband gave this CD to me for my birthday a couple of months ago and we can't stop listening to it. Howard McGillin's voice is so gorgeous and expressive. You just kick back and take a little romantic journey! The song selection is amazing, too! Not just Broadway love-songs, but some great pop songs too. The way he sings the lesser-known songs have made them instant classics in my eyes, and the better-known songs have been given a little twist so that he's kind of reinvented the wheel. Beautiful. One great example is "The Music of the Night" from The Phantom of the Opera. (I saw Howard McGillin star in that show on Broadway, and he blew me away. Talk about the Angel of Music!) The song is partnered with another big Andrew Lloyd Webber hit, "Unexpected Song" and it's so powerful the way to two songs play off of each other. I can't get enough. He makes you hear things in the music that you've never heard before.

My girlfriend is dancing to the "My Romance" track at her wedding. My husband and I dance to it in our living room. What can I say? The coolest thing is that my parents love the CD, my husband and I love the CD, and my 16-year-old niece loves the CD. It's a classic. It's too good not to share, so, though I've never posted a review before, I'm doing it now. I'm back to make my 8th order...my favorite gift for the people in my life. Get it for your girlfriend, your boyfriend, your Mom and Dad, your young buddy who wants to be an actor...they'll love it.

Now that Howard McGillin is starring in the new Stephen Sondheim musical, BOUNCE, can we look for an all-Sondheim CD soon? I'll be the first in line to buy!

A Voice and Album Worth Hearing.......2003-02-28

Residing half-way across the country from Broadway, I came across Howard McGillin's work by chance. Now, I can't stop playing this album. The stunning power and clarity of Mr. McGillin's voice are apparent with the first phrase sung. An appreciation of his phrasing and delivery soon follow and, since these are wonderfully emotive love songs, all of this pulls you pleasantly in.

Those familiar with Broadway music will appreciate Mr. McGillin's presentation of Sondheim, Rodgers and Hart, Hammerstein, Bernstein, Berlin and Kern. Also included, though, are captivating songs from Emily Saliers, James Taylor, Henry Mancini, and Mary Chapin Carpenter. Some of the less familiar pieces take a while to touch you. Once they do, the way Mr. McGillin offers them, they, too, won't let go. You have never heard these songs sung so well. With repeat playing you appreciate things you didn't even notice at first, the sign of what a good selection of material this is!

I mostly wanted to hear Mr. McGillin, as Broadway's Phantom of the Opera, sing "The Music of the Night." The song is not featured in its entirety here (a very minor and the only disappointment of the album) but mixed with another Lloyd-Webber piece, "Unexpected Song". The combination actually works nicely and makes those parts of "The Music of the Night" included even more impressive when contrasted and blended with the other. Personal favorites also include Stephen Sondheim's "Not While I'm Around" mixed with his "A Good Thing Going", Chapin-Carpenter's "Where Time Stands Still" and the enchanting rendition of the Michael Leonard-Herbert Martin song, "Why Did I Choose You?"

While this album may ideally be appreciated over a candlelight dinner for two in love, I will tell you from personal experience that it is also plenty enjoyable heard while driving to work in a snowstorm. Now there's a voice and album worth hearing!

Average customer rating:

This sumptuous sorrow, this sweet rapture of song...
A beauty to stop you in your tracks
"Best Classical Album of the Year" Gala de l'ADISQ 1998

Tears of the Muse

Manufacturer: Atma Classique
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

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ASIN: B000009Q62
Release Date: 1998-07-14

Tracks:

Time Stands Still
Lachrimae Antiquae (Flow My Tears)
Can She Excuse My Wrongs
Lachrimae Amantis
I Saw My Lady Weep
Sorrow Come
Can She Excuse My Wrongs
My Hope Is Revived, the Lady Suffolkes Delight
Come Again! Sweet Love Doth Now Invite
Galliard to Mrs. Anne Markham's Pavan
Go from My Window

Customer Reviews:

This sumptuous sorrow, this sweet rapture of song..........2005-11-10

This recording dates from 1998, and the question I ask myself is... why did it appear in my favourite record shop only recently? And why was I not previously aware of this recording?

I'd heard Daniel Taylor first (or at least consciously noted his name) in the recording of Handel's Rinaldo, and thought at the time what an astonishing beautiful and sensitive sound he produced. I began a hunt for any recordings of his, and was unutterably delighted when, because I pestered the aforesaid music shop, a lot of ATMA Classique recordings appeared. (I seem to have answered my own question - the CDs appeared because I confessed to an absolute longing for anything sung by this counter-tenor!)

The recordings on the ATMA label include several with Suzie Le Blanc, another favourite of mine - and I was prompt to grab as many of the recordings as I could see.

This CD, "Tears of the Muse" consists of some of the most ravishingly exquisite songs by Dowland ever composed - and certainly Daniel Taylor's performance of them is the perfect blend of the intellectual and the emotional. Singing Elizabethan music is a little tricky for some in that a) yes, it must be sung in the appropriate style - a voice approaching Dowland in the same manner as Verdi is going to miss the mark by a mile; b) no, a straight and entirely vibrato-less sound which has as its only objective a dead-set on "Target Choir-Boy Timbre" is NOT the ideal here; c) yes, the songs need to be ornamented (ornamentation in music of this period includes sighs, breaths in the voice, the sound of tears, not just gruppi or other such ornamentations); d) no, swooping around like Renee Fleming is not good ornamentation or even good expressiveness.

Daniel Taylor not only knows this - he is an expert exponent. He sings with his heart and soul, not just his vocal folds. His vocal instrument is very beautiful, but without the intelligence he clearly possesses to control that voice, he would not be the singer he is. And beyond mere intelligence lies the ability to capture the listener/audience - many an intelligent singer with a perfectly nice-sounding voice will simply never enravish his/her audience because to do so is a gift that is both the product of hard work and a God-given talent.

Daniel Taylor has that gift.

I have listened to this CD and to other of his recordings several times, and I shall continue to enjoy them with deep pleasure. The detail, the overall delicacy combined with heart-melting beauty, the whole and sublime work evident in this... I am simply unable to listen to this recording without weeping with that happiness that is so close to sorrow that it almost cuts into one with pleasure.

This is a recording for everyone who loves early music, and if you've never heard early music, this is a perfect CD as your introduction to how it's done.

A beauty to stop you in your tracks.......2000-05-04

I got this CD as a gift from Dan Taylor himself and he would be happy to know that it has become one of the most cherished CD's in my vast collection. As much as I enjoyed Paul Agnew's wonderful recordings of English lute songs, Taylor's raw sincerity and subdued eloquence in the rendition of these songs probably surpass even Agnew's silken polish. The title line for my review comes from Gramophone, I just couldn't resist borrowing it because it is so apt! Most of the songs on this disc (in fact, all but one) are plaintive and sentimental. The choice is fitting because the pure fluid tone of Taylor's voice seems ideally suited to slow melodic lines such as these. I find Taylor's voice to be absolutely remarkable. To my ears, it combines the platinum radiance of David Cordier with the velvety opulence of Michael Chance - a rare combination indeed. As if the beautiful voice was not enough to spark interest, Taylor's singing here is also technically secure and lyrically expressive, ever so lightly adorned with tasteful ornaments. The emphases are all the more potent because they are sparsely used. For example, the second repetition of "Learn to condemn light" in Flow my tears is startling in its sudden roughness... I will never be able to listen to this song again in anybody's performance without expecting them to repeat that same modulation. To me at least, this is how these songs should be sung. gkolomietz@yahoo.com

"Best Classical Album of the Year" Gala de l'ADISQ 1998.......1998-11-04

This outstanding production has just won the "Best Classical Album Of The Year" Award (Félix) at the Gala de l'ADISQ 1998 - the equivalent of a Grammy in the USA. Counter tenor Daniel Taylor, Les Voix Humaines (viola da gamba duo) and Andreas Martin on lute give a unique rendition of Dowland's songs. You can't go wrong and even more, you'll want to get Daniel Taylor's first recording on the ATMA label, Purcell's "On The Muse's Isle" unanimously praised by critics in Canada, the USA and in the UK, as well as every other recordings he will make...

Average customer rating:

Time Stands Still
Chris D. & the Divine Horsemen
Manufacturer: Atavistic Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

Post-Punk | New Wave & Post-Punk | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

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Snake Handler

ASIN: B0002U4EJ6
Release Date: 2004-09-14

Tracks:

When The Rain Comes Down
Lilly White Hands
Past All Dishonor
Frankie Silver
Sanctuary
Heat From The Sun
Little Sister
Hell's Belle
Time Stands Still
Tears Fall Away
My Sin
Devil's River
Mother's Worry
Tenderest Kiss

Album Description

This is a complete re-issue of Chris D's first post-Flesh Eaters album from 1984, featuring performances by members of X, The Cramps, The Gun Club, Green On Red, and Tex And The Horseheads. Also includes five bonus tracks and deluxe artwork in an oversize lyric booklet. There's something special about the crazy, drunk poet, south of the border aura of "Time Stands Still". This is as close as you'll get to the naked soul of Chris D., one of the greatest singers and songwriters of our time. CD features liner notes by Byron Coley.

Average customer rating:

kinda fun

Dowland: Passionate Pavans & Galliards

Manufacturer: Lyrichord Discs Inc.
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Solo Instrumental | New Age | Styles | Music
ASIN: B00004WJMP
Release Date: 2000-09-26

Tracks:

Clear Or Cloudy
Lord Willoughby's Welcome Home
Come Again
Flow My Tears
Pavan Lachrymae
Tell Me, True Love
A Fancy
If My Complaints
Can She Excuse
Time Stands Still
A Fantasie
Sorrow, Stay
The Lowest Trees Have Tops
In Darknesse
My Thoughts Are Wing'd
Now, Oh Now

Customer Reviews:

kinda fun.......2001-03-10

The last cut on this CD is worth the price of admission. Elsewhere the virginal and lute playing is nice and the soprano sounds authentic. The notes are useful. Personally I like vocals a bit ` softer' then this countertenor although that is sometimes deemed less `historically correct'.

Brian Asawa - The Dark Is My Delight And Other 16th Century Lute Songs / Tayler

Average customer rating:

Too Rushed, Low on Feeling
Beyond mediocre
Pretty voice sings pretty songs, but it's pretty mediocre...
HEAVEN!!!
HEAVEN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Brian Asawa - The Dark Is My Delight And Other 16th Century Lute Songs / Tayler

Manufacturer: RCA
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Brian Asawa - more than a day ~ music of Ned Rorem
Brian Asawa - Vocalise / Marriner, Academy of St. Martin in the Fields

ASIN: B000003G9X
Release Date: 1997-10-14

Tracks:

Come Again, Sweet Love Doth Now Invite
His Golden Locks Time Hath To Silver Turn'd
Flow My Tears
It Was A Time When Silly Bees Could Speak
Sorrow, Stay!
Can She Excuse My Wrongs
A Shepherd In A Shade His Plaining Made
Time Stands Still
Go, Crystal Tears
I Saw My Lady Weep
Away With These Self-Loving Lads
Now Hath Flora Robb'd Her Bow'rs
Author Of Light, Revive My Dying Sprite
Come Let Us Sound With Melody The Praises
Oft Have I Sigh'd For Him That Hears Me Not
Turn Back, You Wanton Flyer
This Merry Pleasant Spring
There Were Three Ravens
The Dark Is My Delight
Willow Song
Miserere My Maker
Where The Bee Sucks
O Death, Rock Me Asleep

Amazon.com

As one of the leaders of an exciting new generation of countertenors, Brian Asawa benefits not only from his distinctive voice, but also from his record label's publicity machine, which has made his name and his first two recordings strongly recognized by critics and listeners. Asawa's success at the Metropolitan Opera Auditions in 1991 and his many opera performances in the United States and abroad certainly haven't hurt his career. The voice we hear is unquestionably pretty and technically refined, but its throaty, dark timbre sounds more like the efforts of a man trying to sound like a woman. He just doesn't have that uniquely male countertenor quality exemplified by three of Asawa's more engaging colleagues--Andreas Scholl, David Daniels, and Daniel Taylor. That's not to say that these performances of some of the 16th century's loveliest songs are not eminently listenable and occasionally sublime. Asawa's agile voice projects a strong character coupled with an effortless delivery that will appeal to many listeners. He has an annoying habit, however, of singing slightly behind the beat and gradually leaning into longer-held notes. --David Vernier

Customer Reviews:

Too Rushed, Low on Feeling.......2006-03-04

I've really tried to like Brian Osawa but when I hear this CD, it sounds to me like he's faking his way through the songs, though I doubt he in fact is. It's passionless.Thankfully I bought this CD used for only $9.99 CDN. Regretably, I will likely be selling it back to the used CD store from which it came. Daniel Taylor and James Bowman's Love Bade me Welcome would be a much better selection, i bought it new and its worth every cent!

Beyond mediocre.......1999-08-26

Sorry, but this self-involved, primping prissy, gen-x "amerrican" version of lute song is a far cry from what I would have hoped to have heard from this supposed "promising" artist. The only promise we can hope for is that he stops inflicting this pap on us. If this is the future of opera, get me outta here.

Pretty voice sings pretty songs, but it's pretty mediocre..........1999-07-04

This album of 16th century songs was VERY highly recommended to me by a store clerk at my local music retailer. I did not preview the album before buying it, but was intrigued by the seeming popular nature of the albums production and promotion. As a 20th centuruy composer and performer, I have dealt extensively with the human voice, in all it's many guises and forms. Asawa's voice has a sweet and fairly clean alto character, but the desired strenth and passion of the counter tenor labeling is obviously lacking. I do not doubt that future albums, perhaps featuring a more complex instrumentation and format will show that Mr. Asawa's voice can be something more than a young alto with an overindulgent rubato complex. The album is not the worst I have heard utilizing "non-traditional" male voices, but the clarity of line and sensitivity needed to convey emotion in these songs is something that perhaps is better left to a more tenured voice. I am ooking forward to seeing what the future brings us from Mr. Asawa, but I do hope he will be braver with the timbres and colors in his voice. It is truly a shame not to let the emotive quality of the counter tenor voice lead the way over "technical" purity.

HEAVEN!!!.......1998-10-01

When you start the CD and sit back you will literally think you have died and gone to heaven! Brian Asawa is heaven on Earth!

If you have not heard anything from Brian, you are in for an extraordinary treat. Brian's voice is an incredible gift that every person should be exposed to. "The Dark is My Delight" is a wonderful display of Brian's range and vocal gifts. A collection of mostly 14th Century lute songs, it is a perfect subject for Brian's unique voice. "Come Again, Sweet Love" is a perfect opening song as it gives you his full range and style. In the beginning you cannot believe that this sweet, melodious voice can be coming from a human, muchless a male. You'll be thinking that throughout this wonderful CD.

There are few CDs that are so extraordinary but then again this is Brian's first CD. EVERYONE should listen and expose themselves to Brian Asawa's talents. He can only be looked upon as a rising countertenor star soon to be at the same level as the "great tenors!" I am not exaggerating. FIVE STARS and TWO THUMBS UP!!! There is nothing more I can say!

HEAVEN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.......1998-09-30

Brian Asawa is simply heaven on Earth! Nothing else can describe that wonderous voice of his. You literally feel like you have died and are hearing the angels welcome you to their kingdom. When you listen to the CD you'll understand!

The compilation of songs here are an excellent line-up for Brian. It allows him to, in a sense, tell you stories with excellent lute accompaniment. "Come Again, Sweet Love" was an excellent choice to lead off the CD as it showcases the extraordinary abilities of Brian. His sweet and melodic voice almost transports you back to the late 1500s when this song was written. In fact, you will probably get that feeling with every song on this CD but it is to Brian's abilities that we credit this.

There are very few CDs that I can/do recommend so highly. Brian Asawa is a rising star of countertenors to the same level as the "great tenors." I do not exaggerate when I say this. He has a vocal gift that must be shared with the world and the more people that hear him the better THEY are for it. FIVE STARS and TWO THUMBS UP!!! What more can I say!!!

Music:

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