Sweeter Than Roses [Import]

Purcell (Artist), Minter (Artist), O'Dette (Artist) | Format: Audio CD

Product Details

• Audio CD (November 8, 1993)
• Number of Discs: 1
• Format: Import
• Label: Harmonia Mundi Fr.
• ASIN: B0000007CR
• In-Print Editions: MP3 Download
• Average Customer Review: 4.5 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (2 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #603,803 in Music (See Top 100 in Music)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

4.0 out of 5 stars a voice teacher and early music fan, October 29, 2011

By 

George Peabody "Ariel" (U.S.A.) - See all my reviews
(VINE VOICE)    (TOP 1000 REVIEWER)   

This review is from: Sweeter Than Roses (Audio CD)

PLEASING TO THE EAR, BUT NO EXCITEMENT I FEAR!

Countertenor, Drew Minter possesses a voice of technical skill, but the quality is thin and somewhat nasal and often 'breathy'. What surprises me about his singing on this disc is his lack of attachment to the meaning of each song. I have heard him sing much more dramatically when he performs in an opera, such as Giustino by Handel. The only alterations I hear in these songs are changes in volume and an occasional accent that has more to do with the rhythm than the drama in the song.

An example of this is the contrast that should have happened between the song "O Solitude" which is about a person who seeks solitude in nature and thus the sung while intense is quietly rendered whereas a contrast would be "Crown the Altar" which is a song of celebration but if you listen to Drew you will not hear much of the meaning coming forward other than some minor dynamic changes.

His best performances in which he showed some emotional response were "Lord, What is Man" concerned with God's relationship to man and the other song "Be Welcome, Great Sir" that he sing majestically and impressively befitting the content.

These songs can be very meaningful when the performer takes note of the song's message. Listen if you will to Michael Chance, David Daniels and Lawrence Zazzo for an example of excellent lute song singing. I must mention that the accompanying instruments were very expressive and able to conform to the song requirements skillfully and added what little drama was on this disc. Paul O'Dette on the archlute was truly great to hear. This recording is indeed worth buying if you are 'hooked on' Purcell.

There is a 35 page booklet with pertinent information and the text in French, German and English.

1 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Wonderful music, December 7, 2008

By 

Joseph Kent Anderson - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: Purcell: Sweeter Than Roses - Songs by Henry Purcell (MP3 Download)

I heard this album years ago. I loved it and then could never find it again. I'm thrilled to find it here. It turned me on to counter tenors. Incredibly moving and beautiful music.