Customer Reviews

Journey to the New World

5 star:		(9)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

This is a review by John Hodges from the Juilliard Journal Online.

Joan Baez was one of guitarist Sharon Isbin's childhood heroes, so perhaps it was inevitable that they would eventually collaborate, and the joyous results are at the heart of a new Sony CD, Journey to the New World. Baez adds haunting vocals on "Wayfaring Stranger," which, thanks to arranger Carlos Barbosa-Lima, deftly steers away from treacle. She returns later in breathy, beautiful form for Isbin's transcription of John Jacob Niles's "Go 'Way From My Window." Both make fine bookends to the Joan Baez Suite (2002) by John Duarte, who died in 2004. It's a shame he didn't live to hear this recording. Using roughly 12 of Baez's songs, Duarte crafted a moody yet mellow tribute that shows off Isbin's expertise. A high point comes in the bittersweet "Where Have All the Flowers Gone": some arresting chord changes herald the traditional "Taps."

Isbin, who founded and chairs Juilliard's guitar department, begins the CD with four Renaissance duets, originally for lute and arranged for her playing both parts. Most impressive is the melodic invention of John Johnson's "Greensleeves," and I was struck by the haunting, anonymously attributed begins the CD with four Renaissance duets, originally for lute and arranged for her playing both parts. Most impressive is the melodic invention of John Johnson's "Greensleeves," and I was struck by the haunting, anonymously attributed "Le Rossignol." The generous disc also includes Andrew York's brief Andecy, a popular valentine to folk music of the British Isles.

The program ends with Mark O'Connor's Strings & Threads Suite, originally for violin solo, but here arranged for guitar and violin (the latter raptly played by O'Connor). Sections such as "Road to Appalachia" and "Texas Dance Hall Blues" are typical of its homey, exuberant channeling of folk tunes from Ireland and the United States. Throughout the program, Isbin's warmth, vitality, and casual virtuosity infuse each track. Those who know Isbin only from her Bach, Rodrigo, or Villa-Lobos may be surprised by her naturalness in this repertoire. The recording engineers, Tim Martyn and Dann Michael Thompson, capture every pluck in vivid detail.

Have no doubt, this CD confirms that Sharon Isbin is a most generous, brilliant artist with a gift to touch the soul. Her latest (2009) CD brings an entirely new dimension of lyrical virtuosity to light. From the remarkable tonal color palette expressed masterfully in the opening 16th century flavored works, to the haunting "Andecy" which evokes a sensuality and beauty beyond words... Like a mysterious stranger who beckons... A brand new recording of "Wayfaring Stranger" begins with Isbin's intro, a cascade of notes sounding like a auditory magical spring rain, leading to Joan Baez's unearthly vocals. This poetic collaboration is absolutely heavenly. The Baez Suite that follows is enthralling. The concluding Mark O'Connor Strings and Threads Suite shows how truly alive and modern the classical guitar can be when its voice sings under Isbin's fingers. This is a CD that is a must in your collection and active on your MP3 player/iPod! There is very smooth sailing and something special at every stop along the way on this "Journey to the New World". Her best work to date...

Superb musicianship, and a musical journey from Elizabethan England to 20-century America. The "Joan Baez Suite" was inspired by songs that had been made famous by Joan Baez, who was one of Isbin's musical heroes. When Baez heard the suite she offered to sing two tracks on the album, accompanied by Isbin's playing. There is also a wonderful collaboration with Mark O'Connor.

National Public Radio broadcast an interview with Isbin a couple of days ago, which can be found on their website. This interview stimulated me to buy the album.

There are those rare times when I can get away to the Appalachians to flood my perception in what I concider The Garden of Eden. When I think of the appropriate music to put in the CD player as I enter the Blue Ridge Parkway ....I reach for this disk. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the timeless compositions and ethereal expertise. Sharon Isben is a Natural National Treasure.

I got to know Sharon Isbin from my guitar teacher and bought this album just recently. Although I knew her as a Grammy Award winner, I was still very thrilled by the excellent techniques she displayed in this CD. Joan Baez joined her with two beautiful songs and made the CD even more attractive. It's well worth the money!

All you need to have to enjoy this cd is a pair of ears and the ability to hear. If you enjoy the stripped down guitar then this cd is for you. It has a certain flavor..I can see why it might not be for everyone. The flow of the music,tones, and melodies have a certain irsh feel to it. I also enjoy the addition of Joan to the cd, and her vocals really add to a few of the songs but it isn't overbearing. The cd almost has a harp like quality to it in areas of the cd to, and when you are just getting used when the violins start. This changes the cd up alittle probably not in favor for most tastes but I love the string instruments. I am enjoying the cd. Not for everyone but it is very enjoyable.

My husband and I heard this artist interviewed on NPR and were drawn to her story. The CD is wonderful, calming, a nice collection of music.

I heard an interview and music on WBAI and had to have some of her music.
Bought this and her latest with Joan Baez and I absolutely Love her! Great musicians behind her also.

The is an excellent recording. I am giving the release 3 stars because of the poor packaging.

I had not heard of this talented guitarist before hearing her play on NPR a few months ago. Her performance was stunning!! I nearly got in a wreck trying to write down her name and her album while driving; I was so afraid I'd forget the information. Her music is happy, soothing, and sometimes makes you want to dance. It was an extra treat to have Joan Baez join her. I'd love to hear her live!! EVERYONE SHOULD ENJOY!!