Festival of Light

Various Artists - Miscellaneous - Holiday

Product Details

• Audio CD (October 1, 2000)
• Original Release Date: August 9, 2000
• Number of Discs: 1
• Label: Six Degrees
• ASIN: B00004XSIL
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars See all reviews (3 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #175,403 in Music (See Bestsellers in Music)

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  #21 in	Music > Indie Music > Miscellaneous > Holiday
  #21 in	Music > Miscellaneous > Holiday > Hanukkah

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com
You might ask yourself, what does the funky blues of Peter Himmelman's "Lighting Up the World" have in common with the spirited klezmer of Don Byron's "Oi Tata"? Somehow, after listening to Festival of Light, you'll see the connection. Throughout this compilation--one of the most eclectic collections of Hanukkah music available--you find diverse, yet soulful music that somehow captures the spirit of the holiday and its people today. The Covenant meld the future sounds of electronica and trance with the gorgeous vintage vocals of Cantor Ben Zion Kapov-Kagen on "Kiddush Le-Shabbat" to great affect; the Masada String Quartet performs John Zorn's playful "Bikkurim" in one of the disc's most sublime moments; and Jane Siberry's take on "Shir Amami" puts a modern spin on the traditional tune. Whether you favor the lush sounds of worldbeat or the sincere messages of world-class singer-songwriters, there's something for you here. --Jason Verlinde

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

9 of 9 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Eclectic Chanukah Indeed!, December 15, 2000

By	Timothy J. Slivinski (Toledo, Ohio) - See all my reviews

This CD captures the mood of the Chanukah holiday in all its variations. Though no one will probably like all the cuts on this varied collection, there is enough appeal to make it a winner, nonetheless. Starting off with great strength, Marc Cohn's--mostly English--version of "Ma'oz Tzur" is touchingly beautiful. This may be the closest song we Jews have as a holiday "carol." The rocking "Lighting Up the World" by Peter Himmelman and David Broza closes the CD on an upbeat, clap along note while, at the same time, capturing what should be the message of Chanukah. "Kiddush L'Shabbat," credited to The Covenant, is a real treat. Using the voice of a traditional Cantor, the vocals of the Kiddush are set against electronic techno beats--but, somehow, it works beautifully and effectively. I am not sure why "Avinu Malkeinu" is on a Chanukah CD (It is from the High Holyday Liturgy), but Rebbe Soul's version is moving nonetheless. Other cuts have a dreamy, folky touch, while still others are more traditionally klezmer in arrangement and sound. If you work in an office where co-workers are bringing in their Christmas CD's, throw this one into the mix for a little diversity. It will be interesting to gauge the reaction. Pick up this CD to help enhance your Chanukah celebrations and menorah lighting!

5 of 5 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars The Best of the Festival of Lights CDs, November 10, 2000

By	Guardian of the Zen Sea "Indigo" (Looking after the sun and surf) - See all my reviews

This CD has some really inspirational Hannukah music from introspective cello with strings reminiscent of immigrants (1902 and the Emigrant) to up-beat bluesy pieces (Light up the World). There is Klezmer for the die-hard (Oi Tata) and one of the most beautiful, melodic songs (can you tell it is a favorite) called "Avinu" by Rebbe Soul. My family collects winter holiday music of all types, being equal-opportunity celebrationists. Winter is a time for rejoicing in most traditions, and this is agreat CD for feeling good in the long, dark night. This CD makes my top ten list of holiday music, no matter your religious preference. Also check out the complete recording by Rebbe Soul called "Fringe of Blue" which had the original version of Avinu.

3 of 6 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Lighten your day with the sounds of The festival of Light, August 20, 2002

By	Dr. Stuart S. Rosenkrantz (coral springs, florida United States) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

Great collection of modern folk style music that is wonderful to listen to anytime of the year.