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An Ancient Muse [ENHANCED]
Loreena
McKennitt (Artist)
Audio CD (November 21, 2006)
Original Release Date: November 21, 2006
Number of Discs: 1
Format: Enhanced
In this very humble devotee's opinion, Loreena
McKennitt could sing "99 Bottles of Beer on the Wall" and it would
sound as if inspired by a great poet of yore, sung by the priestess of a mystic
goddess. Needless to say, all of her CDs receive my highest rating. The only
difference between them in my estimation is that one or the other my have
certain all time favorite songs or poems--and ALL of them feature a lot of
those.
McKennitt continues her exploration of Middle Eastern musical phrasing, so
wonderful & prominent in NIGHTS FROM THE ALLHAMBRA.
Another element that really shines out in this CD is the superlative quality of
the accompanying instrumental composition & musicians.
"Kecharitomene" is a powerful non-vocal composition & performance.
It's really great to hear the hurdy gurdy played on many of the pieces. I can't
single out any performer because they all sounded wonderful. Also, there were
some instruments I wasn't familiar with--and synthesizing made identification
difficult at some points. The lead instrument in the "Caravanserai"
selection sounded like a violin. was SO GOOD. In fact, it reflected a very
pleasant overall romantic feel to this CD.
"Caravanserai" bestows "the gift of tears" (at least for
me) and beckons like a ray of light in this very sad world. This lovely song
can be heard as a musical prologue to the next song The English Ladye and The
Knights, with its Palestrina like choral intro and conclusion.
"Kecharitomene" is a powerful non-vocal composition & incredible
performance.
Nights
from the Alhambra - (Jewel 2 CD + DVD)
The
Book of Secrets
The
Mask and Mirror
The
Visit
Elemental
Parallel
Dreams
Review: JEFarrow
Updated 06/08