2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
A Class of its Own, August 17, 2003
By A Customer
This review is from: Return: Art Songs from Carolina (Audio CD)
I have had the privilege of seeing Marilyn Taylor live, and the sound of her voice on recording is every bit as expressive and entrancing as her face and acting in person.
One senses that Taylor's voice effortlessly negotiates Frazelle's music, which has the quality of folk music set in a classical genre. Taylor instinctively adopts the vernacular and inflection of the characters and makes a (refreshing) departure from traditional lines. As she said about these songs, "My voice sat down in this music. It kicked its shoes off and felt cold bare earth and said, `This is home.'" Taylor indeed brings this "classical" music home to the listener.
Taylor further shows her gifts for stylistic flexibility and interpretive nuance as she brings to life Vardell's and Ward's more traditional music. One can almost see the far off look in her eyes as she whispers love's memories. The strength in her mid-range makes her all the more qualified to communicate such tender poetry. A listener is wrapped around her finger as she sings these stories.
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2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
A Splendid Recording, August 5, 2003
By A Customer
This review is from: Return: Art Songs from Carolina (Audio CD)
RETURN: ART SONGS FROM NORTH CAROLINA is a splendid recording representing works by three well-respected composers long associated with the state of North Carolina and its musical heritage. Soprano, Marilyn Taylor, brings forth a renewing and highly musical interpretation to each work. Accompanied by first-rate pianist, Robert Brewer, Taylor sings with conviction, warmth, and sensitivity, placing herself and her voice in character for the work she is performing. This recording would serve as an excellent addition to any personal collection or music library.
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