Customer Reviews

Marilyn Horne: The Men in My Life

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

 

 

This is one of those times when I'm glad I didn't read the reviews first. While I respect the opinions of the other reviewers, it seems to me that it is perhaps a matter of whose cup of tea this is.

The wonderful Jackie brings much to this collection of songs. First, her voice--and enough said there. Second, her sense of humor. Third, her versatility and musicianship--put to good use here. Fourth, her very early experience singing popular music. There is much more, but let's stop at that.

Jackie's guys are also wonderful. The ensembles were terrific fun, especially "Would You Like To Swing On A Star", on which the swinging is in full swing! Delightful jazz arrangements throughout.

First, look at the collection of artists on one disc! Then, feast your ears on their versatility and how much pure, unadulterated FUN the singers are having. If you're looking for Marilyn Horne to display her Rossini/Handelian voice, forget it. If, however, you want to be entertained by some of the world's best singers, who are simply having fun with classic American songs, then your ears will be eternally grateful. Ms. Horne proves on this CD that she can really do it all. Of special mention, we hear the hauntingly lovely voice of Jerry Hadley, who left us far too soon. What a delight to have this in my collection. This is NOT for musical snobs! Listen and enjoy.

I'm a fan of Marilyn Horne, but this recording was truly a mistake. These songs are *so* overdone anyway, they really ought to be shelved for the next 50 years. But on top of that, Ms. Horne is rarely in tune here, and if you add to that Thomas Hampson and Jerry Hadley, you won't be able to fast forward through it fast enough. Kudos to Spiro Malas, who manages to come off unscathed. When you've got Marilyn Horne (in her repertoire), you don't need any of these beasts.

Short and NOT Sweet!

In case you're wondering why this is only going for $2. for new copies from secondary dealers, is because it wasn't worth the $16.00 it originally was priced at! What a SHOCK when I got this home from the store and put it in my machine!

I gave it away in a grab bag at work!

All I can say is: "Miss Horne, I am so sorry that you allowed this to be released...it's worse than the stuff that Callas/Di Stefano did at the end."