Customer Reviews

Minstrel Boy

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

 

 

This collection of songs was recorded from 1910 to 1939. John McCormack (1884-1945) is arguably one of the supreme vocal artists of the 20th century. Although the recording quality is what you'd expect for those years, nothing could hinder my enjoyment of his fabulous talent. His articulation and breath control are astonishing. Beyond the seemingly effortless technical perfection, his singing creates an emotional reaction in my heart. I can only regret being born after his death, and so would never be able to hear him live in concert.

The liner notes give the date recorded and where for each song, and gives some minimal informaton about supporting musicians. The CD is 70 minutes long. There is some variation in recording quality from song to song, and most songs have a hiss that is characteristic of the time.

Until I heard this CD, I thought that I would never enjoy a music recording that was this old. John McCormack's voice surpasses all such trivial considerations. Highly recommended. A pity that I can only give it 5 stars.

This CD is an excellent representation of much, but certainly not all, of the type of repertoire used by this great singer.The company that prepared the disc did a better job than many in removing scratches, surface noise etc. I highly recommend this CD to anyone who enjoys vocal art at a high level. John Mccormack was called the "King of Tenors", and this collection helps to show why.