Customer Reviews

Christmas Songs

5 star:		(7)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

This is a five star album from a five star group. "Away in the Manger" is done in a simple, but exquisite manner. The quality of sound is magnificent. Monica Donlon has a gorgeous voice, well showcased on the Irish "Wexford Carol." "The First Day" adds instrumental interest, a very contemplative piece with voices used as pedal tones. "Riu Riu" is rhythmical and catchy. "Silent Night" is performed at an extremely slow tempo milking the harmonization and classic Anuna sound in a aura of sensual sound. The plaintive melancholy of "The Coventry Carol" aptly suits the text. There are interesting harmonizations and slight tweeks in the melody that separate this arrangement from the average. Four of the next six tracks are original compositions by Michael McGlyn and are a wonderful addition to the Christmas repertoire. The liner notes are ten pages that include the lyrics and brief commentary. Like the album, they are rendered in a classy manner. If you appreciate fine choral music and exceptional Christmas music, this album is a must.

Anuna has such amazing voices! You will love the richness and blends of the vocals and Celtic rhythms.

Anuna has combined the traditional, celtic, and the new age styles of music of Christmas in to a moving mix that will please everyone. The sound of the vocals is an outstanding treat for the ears. This CD is a classic in the making, a great gift for those who enjoy good music.

I ran across this when looking for a unique version of The Coventry Carol and after previewing a couple of tracks, I decided to buy the whole CD. It's really great. Simple and beautiful. Very serene, relaxing. Incredibly talented group! The friends I have let borrow it love it as well. Definitely a great way to add some variety to your Christmas music collection.

This is almost sensuous in delivery, this is a delight to the ears. Instead of New Age pablum or syrupy sweet and content free, this album comes out with the rich velvet of authentic cream and the delicate spice of pure maple syrup. I don't know if the Celts like maple syrup, but this is just a fantabulous disk for a cold night and a hot fire. Be sure to have some candles or Christmas lights nearby to complete the atmosphere.

I have always been a bit uneasy with "New Age" music, as it often seems to wander from the purity and rhythmic beauty of the best Classical and Choral music. This album is proof that there is yet to be discovered new worlds of music that are not simply pleasant and clever, but appeal to the soul and to the higher self. I would recommend this album to anyone who enjoys fine Choral music, but is also drawn to the Mystical traditions of Ireland. "Winter, Fire and Snow", and "Hymn to the Virgin" are especially beautiful, and are two of my favorites. This album has become one of my Holiday favorites.

Many of the songs are not in English, and so I very much liked that the lyric sheet includes the translation!

The music speaks (or sings) for itself - nothing beats listening to the samples.

I had seen Anuna on a PBS special, and was captivated by their gorgeous, haunting sound. In doing some research on the web, I found this early Christmas album by them, and had to get it. It's now my favorite Christmas CD; it barely left my CD player all season! In addition to some of the more traditional songs (albeit unusual versions of them), there are some more rare selections, like the Coventry Carol and the Wexford Carol. Their music brings me back to an ancient time and place, when people of the Earth lived life governed by the seasons and the land, and there was none of the crass commercialism of the holidays that we see today.

This CD is a must for anyone who loves not only traditional Irish choral a cappella music, but more ancient sounding, non-traditional holiday songs.

This is supposed to be a Christmas album. Please explain to me why it is then appropriate to include a setting of the Pie Jesu?!?! That is for funerals!!