Prayers Of St. Brendan: The Journey Home

Jeff Johnson

Product Details

• Audio CD (August 18, 1998)
• Original Release Date: August 18, 1998
• Number of Discs: 1
• Label: Hearts of Space
• ASIN: B000009QKA
• Also Available in: Audio Cassette  |  MP3 Download
• Average Customer Review: 4.3 out of 5 stars See all reviews (13 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #204,453 in Music (See Bestsellers in Music)

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com
The voyage of St. Brendan, a well-known Celtic legend, is given musical voice here by composer, songwriter, keyboardist, and singer Jeff Johnson, who explored similar themes on his previous Music of Celtic Legends and No Shadow of Turning. Inspired by the tale, he's composed some dazzling soundscapes, and sings on several pieces, along with guest vocalist Janet Chvatal, whose skill and talent as a singer is impressive. The CD opens with "Oceanus," which sets the mood for the entire recording with the sound of ocean waves and some lovely pennywhistle work from Brian Dunning, whose playing is featured elsewhere on the CD as well. The music ranges from the Clannad-ish "I Call to You" to the dramatic "Jasconius," which features some excellent electric cello work from Jami Sieber. Chvatal's vocals sound truly inspired on "The Crystal Pillar," with acoustic guitar and washes of cymbal sound providing counterpoint. The album as a whole has the feeling of a journey, which is appropriate given Johnson's source material, and proves a wholly satisfying listen. --Genevieve Williams

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

4 of 4 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Jeff Johnson sets a higher standard, March 8, 2005

By	Mark A. Merritt "Livingstill" (Meadville, Pa.) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

Music that moves you, captivates your imagination, takes you to another place, and is created with integrity and faithfulness to art. One thing is certain with this vocal effort - Jeff is not standing still (artistically speaking). 'Prayers' is a courageous effort, with so many different styles of music evident herein. 'I Call to You' is Jeff's best vocal song since 'Great Romantics'. If you're curious, then what are you waiting for? Some things in life are easily worth the prices we pay. It's always clearer to us afterward. 'Prayers' (or IMHO any JJ disc) is a musical adventure just waiting for your imagination. Some things are worth a try - you won't be disappointed.

4 of 4 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars It took me back to Iceland!, December 7, 1999

By	M. Kidwell (Chesapeake, Virginia) - See all my reviews

I had the pleasure of residing in Iceland for a year (Aug 96 to Aug 97). I loved Iceland beyond measure. 'Prayers of St. Brendan' took me back to the cliffs of Vik, the sprays coming off Gullfoss, and amid the winds where the voice of Vikings can still be heard. This masterpiece is purely sensual and essential!

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Jeff Johnson's Best!, May 8, 2006

By	Dan "Mountain Man" (College Station, TX) - See all my reviews

Although I have several other CDs by JJ, I contend that The Prayers of St. Brendan is his best overall work. I especially enjoyed "I Call to You," "Oceanus" "Navigatio" & "Shall I (The Journey Home)." Janet Chvatal's enchanting and etherial voice is featured on the last two cuts. All in all, an OUTSTANDING CD and one that has brought this listener hours of enjoyment.