Customer Reviews

Odyssey

5 star:		(10)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Owain Phyfe and his friends reach new heights of artistry with this magnificently arranged and produced album of songs from the Renaissance era. With the abililty to sing in at least five languages, and a clear, subtle yet expressive style, balladeer premier Owain Phyfe goes far beyond simply doing justice to even those songs with which some of us are already familiar, such as one of his personal favorites, "Greensleeves." This is, indeed, music of the age of chivalry at its most authentic and finest. One listen and I was hooked. A definite keeper that makes a fine gift for lovers of classical music.

It sometimes seems that the world of classical music began with Bach - that there was nothing before and nothing so good afterwards. This album exposes us to the centuries before the Baroque period and reminds us that there exists great music in all the cultures of the world - even those commonly overlooked.

The work of Owain Phyfe and the New World Renaissance Band focuses on the music of the Late Medieval and Renaissance periods of Europe. _Odyssey_, I feel, is the most consistently excellent of their tapes and cds, most of which are relatively hard to find.

The songs range from traditional melodies to sephardic ballads and everything in between. I imagine that many of those reading this review are familiar with _Greensleeves_, an excellent performance of which appears on this album. Those who are interested in looking for similar cds should go to nightwatchrecording.com, which carries several cds not in this distributor's catalogue.

This album is highly recommended for all those who enjoy classical music.

This is a wonderful CD. Having been in many choirs, I not only appreciate the sound but the quality and skill of the singer and the musicians. The lead singer has a beautiful, clean voice and the songs are entertaining and vibrant, even though I may have no clue what they are saying. I also liked the inclusion of translations for the foreign songs.

My favorites are Tourdion, because I actually know French and can sing along, and She Moved Through the Fair, which I think sounds much better than Loreena McKennitt's version.

Finally ready to admit you're tired of the macerena? Get ready to hear songs that have enchanted listeners for over five centuries. This CD includes songs spanning the 12th to 16th centuries, sung in any one of eleven languages. It contains one of the best versions of "Greensleeves" I have yet to hear. Another highlight of the CD is "Tourdion", a 16th Century drinking song. Listen to this with a glass of good Merlot, Pinot Noir, or any fine red wine. This very talented classical cross-over group deserves the widest possible audience.I can only give the CD 5 stars, as that is the maximum allowed. This band is a clear 10 (or more).

Any of Owain Phyfe's music, be it this cd or any of the others are a must have for the Renaissance music lover. He has a gift for making you feel like you have gone back in time. His live performances are fantastic. I have been fortunate enough to have seen Owain and the New World Renaissance Band perform many times, and their performances were nothing short of glorious. Treat yourself to a trip back in time and let the New World Renaissance Band transport you, ever so sweetly, to a place where you may not want to leave. The 21st century won't look so good to you after that!

Remember the Macarena, and how quickly you tired of the whole thing? Then, take a listen to songs that have enchanted music lovers for over five centuries. This CD includes songs spanning the 12th to 16th centuries, sung in any one of eleven languages. It contains one of the best versions of "Greensleeves" I have yet to hear.

This album is chock full of wonderful and spellbinding melodies. I played it so often I am forced to buy another CD! Truly the Best The New World Renaissance Band has done. Too bad it is extremely difficult to search for. But well worth the find. Rennaisance Faire attendees will love it. Not your typical Ren Faire music, yet appropriate nonetheless

She Moved Through The Fair is such a beautiful song as they all are. I now know what listening pleasure is. When you listen you too will understand.

"Odyssey" will take you on a musical journey that spans centuries, cultures, and lands...Bon Voyage....

I have been fortunate enough to hear this music live in Ann Arbor and Holly, Michigan. This is the easiest and cheapest way to travel to the 16th century.