Customer Reviews

Angels' Glory

5 star:		(11)
4 star:		(3)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

There can't be many people who are neutral about Kathleen Battle. Whether you love or hate her singing, you're likely to agree that this lyric coloratura soprano's interpretations are never boring or unoriginal. For those who strongly dislike Ms. Battle's vocal style, "Angels' Glory" is not likely to change their minds. But for those who greatly admire her unique approach, this album garners the highest recommendation. Christopher Parkening's classical guitar is delicately wrought lace that Ms. Battle weaves her voice through. His accompaniment was an inspired choice, far more effective than a large instrumental ensemble would have been for this recording. From my large collection of Christmas CDs in many genres, this one would be in my ball-and-holly-decked desert-island short list.

Most tracks here are rarely heard on other recordings, at least in these languages or settings, but are fully deserving, a welcome thing for those who tire of so many Christmas albums featuring the same ol', same ol' carols. It's hard for me to pick out just a few favorites, but among those in which the interplay of guitar and voice are particularly strong is the traditional Catalan carol, "El Desembre Congelat" (which a few American choirs have performed in English as "The Three Kings"), as well as the traditional Chilean lullaby, "Dormi, Jesu", and William Billings' "Methinks I See A Heavenly Host". The elegantly simple and traditional "Jesus, The Light of the World" is filled with hooks that will stay with you long after you hear it. The traditional Welsh lullaby "Suo Gan" is very moving. But I do have one clear favorite track: Pietro Yon's "Gesu Bambino".

The emotional power of these performances and beauty of this music should soften the hardest of flinty scroogehearts at Yuletide.

Battle and Parkening are so synchronized in vocal and guitar. The result is a CD that is prayerful, thoughtful and so beautiful I've practically worn my cd out. I hope they collaborate again.

I felt it my duty to balance out and overrule the one unmerited negative rating and accompanying comment. I purchased this CD around 2 years ago, and several of the tracks are among my Christmas favorites. I am a Christmas carol connoisseur (have been since I was a toddler), and this recording immediately became a seasonal staple for me. First, let me mention that I once showed this CD to my choir director, who mentioned that Kathleen Battle had the egotistical "diva" reputation. Personally, I have never been one to follow the lives of celebrities and therefore generally have no feelings about them one way or another (unless they attempt to shove their left-wing politics down my throat); and so I don't care whether or not the "diva" reputation is accurate and deserved. The lone negative reviewer must be a musician who personally knows Kathleen Battle and has some axe to grind. That said ...

This CD has several tracks which alone would recommend the entire album. Specically, I could mention "El Desembre Congelat" (the specific track which led me to buy the CD in the irst place). I can't understand why this beautiful carol with its melodious tune and catchy-sounding lyrics is not better known than it is. The Mormon Tabernacle Choir (with all 2,073 members) once sang it as "The Three Kings". That was my introduction to this beautiful Catalan carol, and I often try to find other good recordings of it. (The arrangement used by the Mormons is a very good one which leaves nothing to be desired, but I prefer a clearer/crisper, more intimate sound than the Mormons (whose choir could populate an entire mid-sized town). Parkening's guitar satisfies that need. Guitar accompaniment to Christmas music, once you get used to it, is clearer and more intimate than the overpowering organ. And if you're trying to understand lyrics, less is more where size of the choir is concerned. Kathleen Battle's solo voice works pefectly with Parkening's solo guitar, and the combination has produced very nice renditions of some lesser-known carols which are clear enough to actually allow the listener to understand the words! (Well, true, Battle sings some of these carols in their orginal languages, such as the Catalan first verse of "El Desembre Congelat" and the Polish first verse of "W Zwobie Lezy" ("Infant Holy"). And that, of course, is part of this album's charm.

For anyone who loved the earlier pairing of Battle and Parkening ("Pleasures Of Their Company" -- a splendid album), this more recent CD will not disappoint. These are mostly Christmas songs, with some gospel material; the opening track ("Mary Did You Know") and several of the exquisite Catalan songs are particular highlights. Battle's voice is in fine form, and Parkening's sensitive guitar accompaniment is perfect. Needless to say, I completely disagree with the previous reviewer's opinion -- can't help wondering if that person has an axe to grind. All in all, "Angels' Glory" is a lovely offering, guaranteed to provide much listening pleasure.

This is by far my favorite Christmas album. Kathleen Battle does a wonderful job; her voice is lovely and her interpretation is heartfelt. I listen to it over and over again. She includes selections that are standards, like Silent Night, as well as pieces that are more unusual, and songs that are traditional around the globe. I simply can't say enough wonderful things about this collection. It's mood is reverent but not stuffy or sad; the best way to describe it may be as contemplative but never boring. Christopher Parkening is wonderful as well. You won't be dissapointed!

This is a wonderful CD - should be in everyone's home.

I absolutely love this album! Kathleen Battle shines and is a wonderful interpreter of the music-and Christopher Parkening complements her perfectly. This is, by far, my favorite Christmas album-her rendition of "Mary, Did You Know?" is outstanding. No complaints, only praise!

'THE BIRTH OF JESUS CHRIST HAS INSPIRED THE CREATION OF MORE BEAUTIFUL MUSIC THAN ANY OTHER EVENT IN HUMAN HISTORY, As you listen to these selections, I hope you will feel the joy I feel when I consider the true meaning of Christmas. It has been a privilege for me to record this musical expression of my faith and gratitude to God for the gift of his Son.' Christopher Parkening

This is an excellent performance on the part of both Parkening and Battle. They are both in top form and are tuned in to each other's interpretation. The arrangements for them are well-done and 'tasty'. However, there is a slight , but annoying problem with the balance much of the time between the guitar and the voice. Let's not blame either singer, but rather the technical aspects of the recording process. For me it was not all that disturbing, but to imply that Battle was oversinging is a great disservice to her as well as Parkening, because they are both good enough performers that they would have corrected each if that were happening.

Kathleen Battle has one of the most resonant and refined soprano voices that I have heard; it is crystal clear and pitch perfect. Parkening plays skillfully and tastefully. The selection of carols is varied and interesting,so how can you go wrong buying this recording???You tell me.

I agree, the first reviewer must have had an axe to grind. By his comments, perhaps he's sat through too many soprano laden church services. This is truly a fine soprano who delivers notes AND music. Mr. Parkening provides an excellent balance to the pure, simple and dramatic repetoire.

While browsing amazon for Christmas guitar music, I came accross this CD and decided to take a chance with a recording I was not at all familiar with. I am glad that I did. This is some of the best classical chritmas music for guitar and voice that I think I have ever heard! All arias on this CD are of the sacred nature. In other words, real Christmas music about the birth of Christ!

Christopher Parkening and Kathleen Battle work so well together; flawless guitar accompanyment for a beautiful operatic voice. I can see that I will add more of their music to my collection. This is such a refrershing break form all the other noise that attempts to pass itself off for Christmas music.

I did find one tech issue with this recording. It is a little low on gain. It will require some boost in an IPOD. Over all, this is a great musical purchase.