Customer Reviews

The Songs of Robert Burns

5 star:		(6)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

This CD has it all: great songs, great playing, great singing. Expertly chosen Burns songs, played primarily on acoustic guitar and fiddle. Lovers of folk music and lied and Scots music and, well, any kind of music will love this one. I hope Andy M. Stewart records more Burns songs! First-class all the way.

There are really two issues here: first, there's the earthy and resonant voice of Andy Stewart, complete with a grand Scottish burr and perfectly accompanied by a varied group of well-chosen instruments from flutes to electronic synthesizer with melodies both old and refreshing; then there's the deep thought and strong whimsy of the rightly esteemed poet-laureate of Scotland. Andy's voice gives rightful airing to some of the finest of Burn's songs. To hear the two together leaves no doubt that the singer is at his peak, and that "Rabbie Burrns wa'farr mare th' a lad wh' wrrote tha' New Year's song." I dare you to listen to "Is There For Honest Poverty" without getting a patriotic lump in your throat!

A friend told me about Andy Stewart, and I am very grateful. Andy has the voice of an angel. I especially liked 'Ca' the Yowes to the Knowes' because it shows the range of his voice and the depth of his empathy with Robert Burns. 'Ae Fond Kiss' is heart-felt but not maudlin...a perfect rendition. I recommend this album to anyone who enjoys the music of the Scots.

This is a great CD. My favorite song is the achingly beautiful "The Lea Rig" which Andy sings with a quiet transcendence. The only glitch is the last song is an energetic "To the Weavers..." which really gets stuck in your head, if you play this CD a lot, which you will.

This is a great CD for Burns officianados and everyone else who loves Scot music. Definitely one for your collection.

Mr. Stewart's singing and arrangements of Burns' songs is are wonderful. It is a classic. I highly recommend it to anyone.