Customer Reviews

Ev'ry Time I Feel the Spirit

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

 

 

Although I do not like spirituals too much, it is a must listening to this fantastic countertenor singing with Moses Hogan. For me, Derek Lee Ragin has such a brilliant voice, I never heard before in my life.

Truly great spirituals, truly brilliant arrangements by Moses Hogan. I can't wait to collect all his CDs.

A HIGHLY EMOTIONAL DEREK RAGIN SINGS SOME LOVELY SPIRITUALS: SOME OLD AND SOME NOT SO OLD.

The following quote is a good way to introduce this album; it is from the poem "The Singer" by Eva A. Jessye. "Because of ebon skin and humble pride,The world with hatred thrust the youth aside.....And through our grief we rise to nobler things....A well of sweetness there unbidden springs."

The Negro Spiritual is one if the most universally known and loved of all vocal art forms. It was created by an oppressed people who voiced thier sorrow and hope in the poignant and haunting melodies that found worldwide appeal. Exciting new arrangements, as well as tradtional ones were employed by Derek Lee Ragin, Moses Hogan and the New World Ensemble in this recording of spirituals. Indeed these spirituals transcend ethnicity, geography, and time. In a very real sense, these artists have kept alive the spiritual and its meaning.

This disc portrays the talents of two wonderful musicians: Moses Hogan,excellent pianist, creator of exciting arrangements of spirituals both for solo voice and choirs AND the much renowned countertenor Derek Ragin with his truly lovely voice capable of great vocal technique and versatility. He has appeared in several operas; two with Michael Chance that are wondrous to hear: Tamerlano and Agippina.

Spirituals are not my favorite thing, but there are some ear-catching beauties on this disc; namely:"Ole Time Religion" and "Give Me Jesus". Some others are: 'Steal Away'-'Little David Play on your Harp'-'This Little Light of Mine' and many more. Some are a cappela, some accompanied by the piano, and some by piano with choir back-up. You do not have to be a lover of spirituals to enjoy this recording. But if you are, you will be in heaven!!!!!!

Very beautiful voice, sometimes I forget that the soloist voice is that of a male singer. Would like to hear more of Moses Hogan on keyboard and his arrangements.