Customer Reviews

Kiri Sings Karl

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

 

 

I was delighted when this recording came out after several years with nothing new from Kiri ("best of" collections not included). It is very different from anything she's recorded before, with the possible exception of "Maori Songs", and it is absolutely delightful. As a professional musician, I can't see how another reviewer thought there was age on her voice. Certainly, she is not singing in the operatic fashion, which would not fit this repertoire, so the sound is different. But, her voice sounds remarkably fresh for 63 (a sign of impecable singing technique); she's definitely still in her prime. Moreover, the enjoyment she finds in the music shines through. Several languages are represented on this album, and one reveiw critisized her pronunciation. During a recent interview with Kiri, she touched on all of the research she did to make sure her pronunciation was as accurate as possible. Given her stature in the field, I would certainly trust that she did her homework...regardless, there is nothing in the language that should put anyone off from enjoying this remarkable album.

It's hard to categorize this project; many genres are present and I found it remarkable that a collection full of such different styles and sounds could fit together so well. If you are an opera purest, this may not be your cup of tea, but, then again, it's not attempting to be opera. This collection is full of interesting instrumentations, ethnic sounds, rhythmic inventions, and, most of all, amazing singing ("In Paradisum" requires incredible skill). I have listened to just about everything Kiri has recorded and she is my most favorite singer. Out of everything, this ranks in the top five on my list of favorite Kiri recordings.

I have always admired Kiri's voice and artistry... And I bought this CD knowing that I could not expect the creamy voice of 10 years ago... but I was not prepared to hear her in such a bad condition. The music is in the concept of "Fussion" (latin-african design) which is too much in fashion this days. Some of the songs are K. Jenkins own compositions. The material in itself is very interesting, but the performance is banal. The worst is Kiri's diction... terrible. when she sings the spanish songs, you know she does not even understand herself... you cannot accept that of an international singer like her. After hearing the CD I was kind of sad...

This cd is full of surprises. Kiri's voice is a bit worn but still as mesmerizing as ever.

I wasn't sure about some of Karl's mixtures of musical styles and instrumentations, but some of these songs are absolutely whimsical and nearly addictive. I particularly like numbers 11 to the end. The more I listen to Karl Jenkins' music, the more I like it. Brilliant!

This album is exquisite! Both Dame Kiri and Karl have created a gorgeous compilation. I found this jewel just recently by downloading a free Kiri podcast from the iTunes store. I was too busy in 2006 with university and working to keep up with my music pleasures, so I only just now happily discovered this album. Check out the free iTunes store podcast, and learn a little ahead to fully appreciate both artists' collaboration on this lovely work. Some of the music written by Karl for Kiri, with the multi-tracking of her beautiful voice, I found to be stunning. Karl Jenkins' compositions in particular are so joyous. This CD is elegant - I'm grateful for their hard work and the work of everyone else who contributed. Wow!

I have to disagree with the other review. While Kiri is almost 63 she looks and sounds very well. I find the musical orchestrations of Karl Jenkins to be too much for the beautiful Guastavino songs having heard them sung by Kiri and others in recital. Not really the orchestra, but that chorus he uses. Some people don't like change and I know the "Opera fans" won't like this one as they didn't like "Maori Songs" etc. Not many recordings have surpassed "Maori Songs" in popularity, however. They went platinum after about 8 weeks. Not many recordings ever go that far..ever. While this is not destined to be one of my favorite recordings it is good.
The Spanish is different in this recording because some of the words do not translate into English..because they are Argentinian Spanish which is as different from Spanish as Cuban Spanish, Puerto Rican Spanish..or even worse Catalan spoken in Barcelona.

Kiri sings opera would have been a more telling title for those of us who are unfamiliar with Kiri and who enjoy Karl. I am not an opera fan.