Review: Inspired by the earlier Bahamian recordings of Sam Charters, Jody Stecher (now a renown singer and multi-instrumentalist of traditional music) traveled with Peter Siegel to the Bahamas in 1965 to record the rhyming singers whose songs were, even then, beginning to disappear. Rhyming, a distant relation to rap, seems to have come from communities of sponge fishermen off the west coast of Andros. Mostly the songs are spirituals though there are occasionally ballads and anthems. In this unique Bahamian vocal development a singer intones verses, called "rhymes" (though the verses don't necessarily have to rhyme), in rhythmic cycles usually supported by bass and treble harmonies. The best known of the singers on this extraordinary recording is Joseph Spence with, of course, the Pinder Family. A close cousin of this music can be found on the recordings of the Sea Island Singers. We're talkin' roots here.

Songlist: my lord help me to play, standing in the need of prayer, kneelin' Down inside the gate, run come see jerusalem, be engaged unto the lord, i met my mother this morning, cecil gone in the time of storm, long summer days, hallelujah, my mother gone over, shepherd moan, shepherd moan, oh jesus my baby, there is good news, just a little talk with jesus, what a beautiful home

Review: In 1954, Alan Lomax and Diego Carpitella set out on a yearlong voyage of discovery that resulted in an exhaustive documentation of Italian folk music. This recording is from their journey to Liguria's western Riviera, featuring performances by the Compagnia Sacco from the village of Ceriana: a unique and splendid vocal polyphony distinct from, and yet as exciting as, the Genoese trallalero.

Songlist: A Figlia du Capitanu, U Camijin Bagnau I, U Camijin Bagnau II, Lauda da Madona da Vila, Donna Lombarda, La Fontanella, Lenga Serpentina, Paire de Catarina, Se ti u Savesi Couse fa e Done, En ta Vale de Pigna, O Come Mai, Mia Cara Ema?, O Pinota, Bella Pinota, Ghe N'Eiran tre Figliete, Io L'Amavo una Sola Bambina, Mi me ne Fon Ina Sciura

Review: This compilation features the acclaimed singing group Te Vaka as well as recordings by David Fanshawe and more. Tracklisting: E keli (The Digging), Siva mai (Let's Dance), Te Maeva Welcome, Manihiki Action Song, Tautai e (The Master Fisherman), Ua Vii Keee Na Te Hatu (Lord's Message), Saki saki tu ni noqu bula marau, Na Ai Tutu Tuetue? Group Moana Nui, Lakalaka hihifo, Aparima Puurai, Aparima te maeva.

Songlist: E keli, Siva mai, Te Maeva Welcome, Manihiki Action Song, Tautai e, Ua Vii Keee Na Te Hatu, Sakisaki tu ni noqu bula marau, Na Ai Tutu Tuetue?, Lakalaka Hihifo, Aparima Puurai, Aparima Te Maev

Voicing: world/south-seas/

Review: This recording features some of the finest artists practising the academic choral art in Bulgaria. The release contains a compilation of performances of Bulgarian choirs, starting with the children's, through the female, chamber, mixed, and ending with the male choirs. The earliest recording in the release is of the song "I'm leading a Horse, Mother" by Georgi Dimitrov. It is performed by one of the earliest children's choirs - Bodra Smyana Choir. Then follow a number of children's choirs, all with acknowledged international prestige: Bulgaria National Radio Children's Choir, Sofia Boys' Choir, etc. Then come the female choirs: Hristina Morfova Female Choir, Polyphonia Chamber Choir, Vassil Arnaudov Sofia Chamber Choir, and the mixed and male choirs: Dobrudjanski Zvutsi Mixed Choir, Morski Zvutsi Mixed Choir, Kaval Male Choir, Gusla Male Choir, etc. A wonderful selection from a country that produces world class choral music.

Songlist: Native Song, I'm Leading a Horse, Mother, A Cuckoo Called Out, Aquarelle, Devilish Song, The Port of El Granny, Pizzicati, A Nightingale Is Singing, Zara, You Maiden, Reverie, Like Snow, Like Snow, Indeed, Mehmetyo, My Woe, Hey, Yana, Evening Dusk, A Love Night, A Morning by the Sea, Get Up, Mother, Sechenata, A Young Lad Has Fallen Asleep, My Native Land, Divertimento, Dafina, You Wine, How Dear It Is To Me

Review: This recording is a historical wonder, particularly valuable for putting the music of Ladysmith Black Mambazo in context. One of the obvious distinctions of mbube groups were who sang soprano parts in the absence of women. The earliest of the recordings is from 1932 and the history extends to 1967, ending with the song, "Umama Lo" by Ladysmith Mambazo which is a transcription of their first radio appearance. They didn't record their first album until six years later. The other most notable recording is the 1939 recording of "Mbube" by Solomon Linda's Original Evening Birds. This was the song which became "The Lion Sleeps Tonight" when western artists tried to phonetically recreate what they heard from the record. Oh well. Other notable groups are the King Star Brothers, Crocodiles and the Shooting Stars.

Songlist: Jim Takata kanfani, hewul kwaqaqamba anathambo, ina ma wala, kuyekeleni kukule, mbube, ngazula emagumeni, anoku gonda, yek' emerabini, izindaba ezinkulu zika "Kawa", hamba stutubaker, ngi-e kaya, nsigoduke, akasangibhaleli, cothoza mfana, mus' ukuqubuda, umama lo

Voicing: world/africa/

Review: Here are the roots of Ladysmith Black Mambazo & Solomon Linda's Evening Birds - it's a thorough documentation of the whole genre of Worker Choirs, featuring 7 different groups; included are full lyric transcriptions with translation into English. Fascinating fun stuff!

Songlist: Go Girl, Why are you Happy?, She no Longer Writes to Me, I Have Discovered Wonders, I Want Money, Come Back Africa?, Greetings Girl, Be Quiet my Love, You are Inconsistent like a Witchdoctor, Here at iSandlwana, We Shall See, Lion, Greetings to you Father

Voicing: world/africa/

Review: The Contemporary A Cappella Society of America (CASA) created the Urban Harmony Movement to bring music, via free materials, coaching, and concerts to public high schools in need. For more information call (415) 563-5224. In the mean time buy and listen to another outstanding compilation of 16 tracks sung by both well known groups and four of the best college a cappella groups, with whom CASA is uniquely connected. Other notable contributors are The House Jacks, Five Live, The Persuasions, Bobby McFerrin, Vox One, The Nylons and M-Pact.

Songlist: 'Cause We All Got A Mouth, Stay With Me Tonight, I Feel Good, Respect, Change In My Life, Drift Away, Papa Oow Mow Mow, Sister, Back II Life, The Way It Makes Me Feel, Yesterday, I'll Be Whatever You Want Me To Be, Always Be My Baby, 29 Ways, Ya Gotta Be, I'll Be There

Voicing: a-cappella/contemporary/cds-mixed/

Review: A truly Gregorian Christmas album, this prayerful recording of seven different chant choirs includes the Benedictine Abbeys of Montserrat, Maumont, Einsiedeln, the Dominican Schola of France, the Paris Gregorian Choir and more. Outstanding performances of 23 chants for Masses and other liturgical events on Christmas Eve, Christmas Night and Christmas Day.

Songlist: Christmas Eve, Antiphone: Judaea Et Jerusalem, Reponsory: Salve VIrginale, Antiphon Completi Sunt Dies Mariae, Christmas Night, Responsory Hodie Nobis De Caelo, Reading: Genealogy According to Saint Matthew, Responsory: Verbum Caro, Introit: Dominus Dixit Ad Me, Kyrie IV, Offertory: Laetentur Caeli, Agnus Dei IV, Offertory: Laetentur Caeli, Agnus Dei IV, Communion: In Splendoribus, Christmas Day, Hymn: A Solis Ortus Cardine, Mass of the Day, Introit: Puer Natus Est Nobis, Kyrie XI, Gloria XI, Gradual: Viderunt Omnes Fines Terrae, Alleluia: Dies Sanctificatus, Offertory Tui Sunt Caeli, Sanctus XI, Agnus Dei XI, Communion: Viderunt Omnes Fines Terrae, Antiphon: Natus Est Nobis Hodie, Alma Redemptoris Mater

Voicing: choral/earlymusicchristmas/

Review: This second volume moves us chronologically into the 1930's, a time when slicker, smoother, more polished and sophisticated vocal groups were gaining ascendancy in pop quarters. The groups included here show some of the barbershop stylings and imitations of instruments made popular at the time by groups such as the Mills Brothers. These groups were capturing the imaginations of popular fans and Harlem hipsters alike with their smooth, sweet and sometimes swinging harmonies.

Songlist: My Little Dixie Home - Red Cap Quartet, They Kicked The Devil Out Of Heaven - Red Cap Quartet, Mammy Lou - Four Southern Singers, Be Ready - Four Southern Singers, Hambone Am Sweet - Four Southern Singers, You're Sweet To Your Mammy/Mudder Knows - Four Southern Singers, Old Man Harlem - Four Southern Singers, Careless Love - Four Southern Singers, Take My Seat And Sit Down - Mississippi Mud Mashers, Bring It On Home To Grandma - Mississippi Mud Mashers, Let's Go To Dinner - Mississippi Mud Mashers, Don't 'Low No Quartet Singin' In Here - Mississippi Mud Mashers, Moonglow - Mississippi Mud Mashers, Tiger Rag - Mississippi Mud Mashers, Cushion Foot - Five Jinks, Za Zu Swing - Five Jinks, I' m Moaning All Day For You - Five Jinks, There Goes My Headache - Five Jinks, Found A Baby Down Dixie Way - Five Jinks, Dirt-Dishing Daisy - Five Jinks, Just Dream Of You - Norfolk Jazz Quartet, Shim Sham Shimmie At The Cricket's Ball - Norfolk Jazz Quartet, Mama Don't Allow It - Norfolk Jazz Quartet, Ol' Man Mose - Norfolk Jazz Quartet

Voicing: group/black-vocal-groups/

Review: These are some of the very earliest recordings Black vocal groups and is an outstanding example of the genre including vaudeville, blues and spirituals sung in both the "old style" with its integrated parts blending smoothly as if sung by one person, and the "new" with its foregrounding of wailing, blue notes and syncopation. The most well known groups here come from the incredibly fertile area of Norfolk Virginia, known for its astonishing number of vocal quartets in the 1920's and 30's. In all there is plenty of top-notch material here for lovers of pre-war vocal groups, with some churning quartet blues recordings that are irresistible.

Songlist: Aunt Hagar's Children Blues - Black Devil Four, Miss Annabelle Lee - Variety Four, I'm Coming, Virginia - Variety Four, Every Time I Feel The Spirit - Pulman Porters Quartette, Good News Chariot's Coming - Pulman Porters Quartette, Jog-A-Long Boys - Pulman Porters Quartette, Won't Be Worried No More - Starlight Quartette, Oh, You Better Mind - Starlight Quartette, Monkey Man Blues - Starlight Quartette, Gone Jazz Crazy - Starlight Quartette, Doodlin' Back - Triangle Quartette, She Done Quit Me Blues - Triangle Quartette, Queen Street Rag - Triangle Quartette, What's The Matter Now? - Quartette of Norfolk, Just Too Late - Quartette of Norfolk, Pleading Blues - Quartette of Norfolk, Four Or Five Times - Quartette of Norfolk, When I Was A Moaner - Quartette of Norfolk, King Jesus, Stand By Me - Quartette of Norfolk, When Death Shall Shake This Frame - Quartette of Norfolk, Somebody's Wrong - Quartette of Norfolk, Pullman Passenger Train - Quartette of Norfolk, Ain't Got No Mama Now - Quartette of Norfolk, Somebody's Always Talking About Me - Quartette of Norfolk, I Ain't Got Nobody (And Nobody Cares For Me) - Quartette of Norfolk

Voicing: group/black-vocal-groups/

Review: 18 songs from the amazing 25th Anniversary Finals, featuring "Book of Love," "Cat is High" and "Ghost Train" from 3rd Place winner Rezonate, "Bye Bye Norman" and "Bill Bailey Medley" from 2nd Place winner and Audience Favorite, the Bay Area's own The Love Notes, and "Brand New Day" and "Don't Break The Heart" by National Champs Maxx Factor. Also included are "When the Lilacs Bloom" and "Nothing At All" from 2008 Champs Vocaldente, plus tunes from Road Show, Mouth Beats, 3 Men and a Melody, Cartoon Johnny and Evolution. It always seems to us that every Harmony Sweeps National Finals is even better than the last, but there's really no comparison, because they all are wonderfully unique. So, for a very reasonable price, treat yourself to this Sweeps banquet, and, as we have, settle back and savor each of the a cappella goodies within!

Songlist: 16 Tons, Tron, Bye Bye Norman, When the White Lilacs Bloom, Brand New Day, Book of Love, The Future Pt. 2, Don't Break the Heart, Nothing at All, Bill Bailey Medley, Angel, Cat is High, Ghost Train, What I Like, Bless the Broken Road

Voicing: cds/harmony-sweepstakes/

Various Artists : Harmony Sweepstakes 25th Anniversary

Review: This 25th Anniversary collection is 2 discs of prize-winning tunes and Big Fun from the first 25 years of the best a cappella show on the planet, The Harmony Sweepstakes National Finals! The first disc has 23 of our favorites from these shows, and it was, you might imagine, very hard to pick from:- let's see-8 Regional Winners per show times 25 equals 200 great groups, times 3 or 4 songs per group, well, you get the picture. How can we forget The Idea of North's "Mas Que Nada," Naturally Seven's "Bridge Over Troubled Water," Chapter 6's marvelous "Wizard of Oz Medley" or Moosebutter's hilarious "Star Wars?" Now we, and you, don't have to! Just to give you a taste of all the goodies on Disc 1, we present a list of the groups that are included: 17th Avenue All Stars, The Idea of North, +4db, Hi-Fidelity, Naturally Seven, Moira Smiley & Voco, Chapter 6, Clockwork, Traces, Harmonytrix, Acapelicans, Moodswing, The Coats, The New Originals, Pickups, Chicago Voice Exchange, Metropolis, Moosebutter, Face, Citylights and SoVoSo. The second disc has 18 songs from the amazing 25th Anniversary Finals, featuring "Book of Love," "Cat is High" and "Ghost Train" from 3rd Place winner Rezonate, "Bye Bye Norman" and "Bill Bailey Medley" from 2nd Place winner and Audience Favorite, the Bay Area's own The Love Notes, and "Brand New Day" and "Don't Break The Heart" by National Champs Maxx Factor. Also included are "When the Lilacs Bloom" and "Nothing At All" from 2008 Champs Vocaldente, plus tunes from Road Show, Mouth Beats, 3 Men and a Melody, Cartoon Johnny and Evolution. It always seems to us that every Harmony Sweeps National Finals is even better than the last, but there's really no comparison, because they all are wonderfully unique. So, for a very reasonable price, treat yourself to this Sweeps banquet, and, as we have, settle back and savor each of the a cappella goodies within!

Songlist: Sly and the Family Stone Medley, Mas Que Nada, In a Mellow Tone, Blackbird, Bridge Over Troubled Water, Bring Me Little Water, Sylvie, Wizard of Oz Medley, In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida, Mary Don't You Weep, O Sinfuni Mungu, Get Down Tonight, The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face, Paper Moon, Stray Cat Strut, Plastic Jesus, Route 66, Spiderman, Sweet Georgia Brown, Change in My Life, Star Wars, O Fortuna, That's How You Jazz, Say

Voicing: cds/harmony-sweepstakes/

Review: This two CD collection is a great value, containing over 50 tracks from the top vocal groups of the 1940's. Some rare tracks here as well including The Stardusters, Snowflakes and The Song Spinners along with many of the big hits of the era. This is a well-put together compilation and listeners well really get the feel for this great period for vocal harmony groups.

Songlist: Disc One:, Cheek to Cheek (Boswell Sisters), Rock and Roll (Boswell Sisters), You Always Hurt The One You Love (Mills Brothers), Across The Alley From The Alamo (Mills Brothers), Paper Doll (Mills Brothers), Dream (Pied Piper), My Happiness (Pied Piper), There Are Such Things (Pied Piper), Brazil (Dinning Sisters), Buttons and Bows (Dinning Sisters), Once In A While (Dinning Sisters), You'll Never Know (Song Spinners), Comin' In On A Wing And A Prayer (Song Spinners), On The Sunny Side Of The Street (Clark Sisters), On The Atchison, Topeka And The Santa Fe (Clark Sisters), Tuxedo Junction (Four Freshman), There's A Small Hotel (The Snowflakes), Little White Lies (Four Hits & A Miss), The Honeydripper (Delta Rhythm Boys), You'd Be So Nice To Come Home To (Six Hits & A Miss), Lullaby of Broadway (The Skylines), Guilty (The Mel-Tones), What Is This Thing Called Love?, If This Isn't Love (The Sportsmen), Great Day (The Sportsmen), Love For Sale (The Smoothies), Disc Two:, Java Jive (The Ink Spots), If I Didn't Care (The Ink Spots), We Three (The Ink Spots), Shoo Shoo Baby (Andrew Sisters), I'll Be With You In Apple Blossom Time (Andrew Sisters), Rumours Are Flying (Andrew Sisters), Mairzy Doats And Dozy Doats (Merry Macs), Jingle, Jangle, Jingle (Merry Macs), Praise The Lord And Pass The Ammunition (Merry Macs), Jersey Bounce (King Sisters), Ferry Boat Serenade (King Sisters), In The Mood (King Sisters), People Like You And Me (The Stardusters), Make Believe Ballroom (The Modernaires), I Guess I'll Have To Dream The Rest (The Modernaires), Stompin' At The Savoy (The Modernaires), Managua, Nicaragua (The Campus Kids), Love On A Greyhound Bus (The Campus Kids), Undecided (Ames Brothers), Rag Mop (Ames Brothers), On Top Of Old Smokey (The Weavers), Goodnight, Irene (The Weavers), Tumbling Tumbleweeds (Sons Of The Pioneers), Oh! Lady Be Good (The Foursome), Tell Me Why (The Foursome), Does Your Heart Beat For Me (Fontane Sisters)

Voicing: jazz/vintage/cds-mixed-voice-groups/

Review: Since its debut in 1998, the Pacific International Children's Choir Festival has established itself as one of the finest events of its kind in the US. This is a double CD set, featuring a collection of performances fom festival years 1998 through 2001 on Disc 1 and highlights from PICCFEST 2002 on Disc 2. There are 19 live, accompanied, wonderful, spirited songs on Disc 1, by some of the best children's choirs we've heard: from "Panis Angelicus," by the Phoenix Boys Choir and "Jabberwocky," by the Seattle Children's Chorus, to "On suuri sun rantas autius" by the Surrey Children's Choir and "It Don't Mean a Thing" by the Youth Choir of Central Oregon--it's all pure, sweet stuff. Disc 2, from 2002, features 13 live cuts by 13 different groups, from Indianapolis Children's Choir Kantorei, Northwest Girlchoir Vivace Choir and Pacific Chorale Children's Chorus to the Piedmont Choirs Concert Choir, the Portland Symphonic Girlchoir (one of our favorites), and Young Voices of Colorado--there's not a bad cut here. This is a real feel-good CD on many levels. Though all accompanied, the focus is on the voices of the children, which are incredible! Recommended.

Songlist: PICCFEST 1998, Panis Angelicus (Phoenix Boys Choir), Beauty of the Trees (Coastal Sound Music Academy), I's the B'y (Die Meistersinger Children's Chorus), 1998 Festival Chorus:, Laudamus Te, Mayim, Mayim, Children, Go When I Send Thee, PICCFEST 1999, Niska Banja (Campbell River Children's Choir), Jabberwocky (Seattle Children's Choir), 1999 Festival Chorus:, Ave Verum Corpus, Lord, Bow Thine Ear, Alleluia, The Lord Bless You and Keep You, PICCFEST 2000, On suuri sun rantas autius (Surrey Children's Choir), Duet - Cantata No. 9 (Temple University Children's Choir), 2000 Festival Chorus:, Laudate Dominum, PICCFEST 2001, 2001 Festival Chorus:, Bist Du Bei Mir, For In His Own Hand, It Don't Mean a Thing (If It Ain't Got That Swing), PICCFEST 2002, Untraveled Worlds (Alaska Children's Choir), Weep No More (Oregone Festival Chois Forza), Rise Up My Love (Seattle Children's Chorus), Magnificat (Seattle Children's Chorus), Psalm of Life (Seattle Children's Chorus), Festival Chorus:, Ode to Music, The World is Full of Poetry, As the Moon, Domine Deus, Laudate Pueri, Psalm 92, Inscription of Hope, Thou My Everlasting Portion

Voicing: cds/mixed-voice-childrens-choir-recordings/

Review: Billed as the choral event of the Century, this CD brings together five midwestern Lutheran colleges in a concert celebrating the 125th Anniversary of F. Melius Christiansen's birth. Features Concordia Choir, Luther College Nordic Choir, St Olaf Choir, The Festival Choir and The Augberg Choir.

Songlist: Disk 1, Come, Let Us Worship, Fuerchtet Euch Nicht, From Grief To Glory, Amazing Day, Cantate Domino, Totus Tuus, Exultate Deo, Sanctus, Wake, Awake, Nu Ar En Dag Framilden, Mighty River, Mighty Fire, Praise To The Lord, Disk 2, Be Not Afraid, Lost In The Stars, Prayer Of The Children, And I Heard A Great Voice Paul Christiansen, Nun Danket Alle Gott, How Great Are Thy Wonders, Sigalagala, O Day Full Of Grace, Psalm 50 Mvmts. II & III, O Bread Of Life From Heaven, Beautiful Savior

Review: The 6th World Symposium on Choral Music took place in Minneapolis and St. Paul, MN, in August of 2002, hosted by the American Choral Director's Association. The Symposium takes place every 3 years and features prominent choral specialists and choirs from around the world in lectures and concerts. This 2-CD set features live recordings of 27 choirs from around the world, beginning with Chanticleer's "I Dream of Jeannie," and ending with the combined choirs singing "What A Mighty God." Representing the US, besides Chanticleer, are AmericaFest, singing "One By One (from the Lion King)," Michigan State U. Children's Choir, singing "My Lord, What a Morning" and "Billy and Ming do the Be-Bop Thing," the St. Olaf Choir, singing the Moses Hogan-arranged "This Little Light of Mine," Dale Warland Singers, with "Snow (The King's Trumpeter)", and VocalEssence Ensemble Singers, singing "Antiphon for the Virgin." There is so much amazing music on this CD, we will mention a handful of other favorites: Cantoria de Merida of Venezuela's "El Gavan," Univ. of Pretoria Concert Choir's "A Selection of Traditional African Folk Music," Garganta Profunda of Brazil's jazzy "O pato," National Youth Choir of Namibia's "Sangena" and The Norweigian Soloists Choir's "Mon Dieu, mon adore." But if you are interested in the best of Contemporary Choral music, "Choral Highlights" is for you! Some light accompaniment, beautiful, extensive liner notes.

Songlist: Chanticleer, -I Dream of Jeannie, Little Singers of Armenia, -Light of Glory, -Middle Song, -Autumn Song, Cantoria de Merida, -El Gavan, -Aires de Golpe Tuyero, St. Jacob's Chamber Choir, -Coelos ascendit hodie, -Credo Part I, -Credo Part VI, -Du som ar over oss, Chamber Choir off the Moscow state conservatory, -Concerto for choir- "The Book of Mournful Chants", University of Pretoria Concert Choir, -Psalm 103, Horizons, -A Selection of Traditional African Folk Music, Taipei Philharmonic Chamber Choir, -Sunset, -Song of Praise, Vienna Chamber Choir, -Kyrie, -Brauner Bursche Fuhrt Zum Tanze, -Kommt Dir Manchmal In den Sinn, Riga Dom Boys Choir, -My Marysiu, Love Me, AmericaFest, -One By One, Red leaf Children's Choir, -Title unknown, -Question and Answer, National Folkdance Enssemble of Croatia, LADO, -Dobar Vecer Dobri Ljudi, -Igrajte Nam Muzikasi, Elmer Iseler Singers:, -Rise Up, my Love, -Ave Maria, Choeur de Chambre de Namur, -In devotione, -Sanctus, Amabile Boys Choirs: Primus, -Exultate, Michigan State University Children's Choir, My Lord, What a Mornin', -Billy and Ming do the Be-Bop Thing, Garganta Profunda, -O pato, Ansan City Choir, -Chungsanri Byukesu, -Ongheya, Adelaide Chamber Singers, -Inang, -Kondalilla, Okubo Mixed Choir, -Title unkown, World Youth Choir, -...Which was the Son of..., Okubo Mixed Choir, -Uta-Sakura, -Title unkown, Namibia National Youth Choir, -Goa gare !Khubare, -Sangena, The Norwegian Soloists Choir, -Mon Dieu, mon adore, -I Himmelen, The St. Olaf Choir, -This Little Light of Mine, Dale Warland Singers, -Snow, VocalEssence Ensemble Singers, -Antiphon for the Virgin, Combined Choirs, -What a Mighty God

Review: Enjoy the sound of Wales with this extensive collection performed by some of the country's most cherished choirs. Featuring traditional Welsh songs, West End musical classics and popular standards this collection is full of spirit and charm. A beautifully packaged 2 CD set.

Songlist: Love Changes Everything, Take Me Home, Sailing, Lily of the Valley, Do You Hear the People Sing?, The Sound Of Silence, Gloria, I Have a Dream, With a Voice of Singing, The Wonder of You, Solitare, There's A Valley Called the Rhondda, Battle Hymn of the Republic, The Lost Chord, Where Shall I Be?, Abide With Me, Passing By, Love Could I Only Tell The, Sunrise Sunset, Amen, The Crusaders, Pilgrims Chorus, Softly As I Leave You, Rhythm of Life, Myfanwy, Deryn Y Bwn o'r Banna, Speed Your Journey, Beautiful Dreamer, Calm is the Sea, Amazing Grace, Y Goedwig Werdd, The Lord's Prayer, Deep Harmony, Surge Illuminare, Christus Redemptor, Now the Day is Over

Voicing: choral/wales/

Review: This is a 2-CD set, the Best of Collegiate A Cappella Volumes I and II. There are 19 songs on Vol. I, and 15 on Vol. II, each by a different school's chorus or choir. It's very hard to pick some favorites here, so we'll just toss out a few: "Everything She Wants" by the Wesleyan Spirits, "This Woman's Work by the Tufts Jackson Jills, "In Your Eyes" by the Brown Derbies, "The Weakness in Me" by Colgate Swingin' Gates, and Sting's "Englishman in New York" by Michigan Amazin' Blue, but they're all great. Enjoy!

Songlist: Everything She Wants - The Wesleyan Spirits, Soul To Squeeze - The University of Pennsylvanian Off the Beat, This Woman's Work - The Tufts Jackson Jills, In Your Eyes - The Brown Derbies, Crazy - The Connecticut College Co Co Beaux, Breathe - The Harvard-Radcliffe Opportunes, Boogie Down - The Princeton Footnotes, Hey You - The Tufts Beelzebubs, Nick of Time - Duke Out of the Blue, I've Got A Right - The University of Pennsylvania Counterparts, Grandma's Hands - Everyday People of Stanford University, Ship of Fools - Virginia Gentlemen, Eli's Comin' - The Yale Whiffenpoofs, Englishman in New York - Michigan Amazin' Blue, The Weakness In Me - The Colgate Swingin' Gates, 7 - The Brown Jabberwocks, Galileo - The Yale Whim 'n Rhythm, Save the Best for Last - The University of North Carolina Loreleis, Ave Maria - Stanford Fleet Street Singers, Possession - The U. Penn Off the Beat, Insomniac - The Virginia Gentlemen, Calling You - The Yale Red Hot and Blue, New Age Girl - Pennsylvania Six-5000, Kyrie - The Michigan Amazin' Blue, Mercy Street - Duke Out of the Blue, Picture Perfect - The University of Illinois Xtension Chords, 'Round Midnight - The Princeton Katzenjammers, Maryanne - The Columbia Kingsmen, Dreams - The University of North Carolina Loreleis, Got To Be Real - UC Berkeley Artists in Resonance, Walkin' On Broken Glass - The Maryland Treble Makers, Prayer for the Dying - The University of Illinois Other Guys, Fortress Around Your Heart - The Washington University Pikers, Everywhere - The Boston University Terpsichore, Rock With You - The Amherst Zumbyes, I Alone - The Tufts Jackson Jills, Dancing Queen - Stanford Street Fleet Singers

Voicing: a-cappella/collegiate

Review: "Voices" is a generous, 2-CD set of the best of the collegiate a cappella groups, a total of 30 songs. We're particularly pleased to see and hear groups we've never heard of before, such as "What It Feels Like For A Girl," by Boston Aural Fixation, "Into the Dark" by VT Juxtaposition, "The Late Great Planet Earth" by UT Ransom Notes, "Feel Good Time" by MIT Muses, "Missing" by UPenn Penny Loafers, "Collective Soul" by Colorado In The Buff, "Only In Dreams" by Wash U in St. Louis Mosaic Whispers, "Earth Song" by UCSB Naked Voices, and "Beauty of Grey" by St. Louis Bare Naked Statues. There are familiar and welcome names from the BOCA yearly compilations, such as "All Original" by the Stanford Fleet Street Singers, "Ask the Lonely" by the Dartmouth Aires, "When I Think About Angels" by the UVA Sil'hooettes, "Never There by the Clemson TIGEROAR, "Destiny/In The Waiting Line" by the USC Sirens, and "Nothing" by Northwestern Purple Haze. The brazen, refreshing ensemble names, like the Duke Pitchforks, Cornell Class Notes, Oregon Divisi and Elon Twisted Measure go well with their music, which features innovative arrangements, rich harmonies, genuinely funny material and always interesting entertainment. Want to hear what's up in collegiate a cappella? Settle back, put the 2 CDs of "Voices Only 2005" and enjoy!

Songlist: Stutter - UNCG Spartones, This Love - USC SoCal VoCal, Street Spirit - Northeastern Downbeats, Feel Good Time - MIT Muses, Cry Me A River - UVA Hullabahoos, Destinty In the Waiting Line - USC Sirens, Here We Go - Duke Pitchforks, Silence - Cornell Class Notes, When I Grow Up - Stanford Mixed Company, Into The Dark - VT Juxtaposition, The Late Great Planet Earth - UT Ransom Notes, Catch Me If You Can - Oregon Divisi, Nothing - Northwestern Purple Haze, Collective Soul - Colorado In The Buff, What It Feels Like for A Girl - Boston Aural Fixation, Carwash - Wisconsin Redefined, Never There - Clemson TIGEROAR, Missing - Upenn Penny Loafers, For Me This Is Heaven - Harvard Lowkeys, September - Northwestern Freshman 15, When I Think About Angels - UVA Sil'hooettes, Ask The Lonely - Dartmouth Aires, Lighted Up - USC Reverse Osmosis, Only In Dreams - Wash U in St.Louis Mosaic Whispers, Hit "Em Up Style - Elon Twisted Measure, Earth Song - UCSB Naked Voices, Beauty Of Grey - St.Louis Bare Naked Statues, ll Original - Stanford Fleet Street Singers, Cigarettes And Chocolate Milk - Wesleyan Spirits, Clocks - Stanford Counterpoint

Voicing: a-cappella/collegiate

Review: This is an impressive two-CD set of some of the finest a cappella groups in Africa, including Ladysmith, Baswa Ba Tumelo (South African Zionist Church Choir), Zyac Choir (Zulu Church group), Maogane A Tumelo (N. Sotho Zion Church choir), Majalefa A Morena (South Sotho Choir), and ten others, including the Zulu a cappella group The King Star Brothers. There are 30 authentic tunes here, 15 on each side, sung by groups that are, individually, and collectively, the heart and soul of Africa. This is an important collection on many levels, and enjoyable for the listener fairly new to African music as well as to say, a Ladysmith fan who wants to hear some of the lesser-known, but often equally amazing, voices from Africa.

Songlist: Ladysmith Black Mambazo - Isigcino, Baswa Ba Tumelo - Mmele Pelo Le Moya, Zyac Choir - Ujesu Uyinkosi, Msogane A Tumelo - Orata Boetapele, Majalefa A Morena - Sengiyezwa, Simon Ngobeni Na Vatsonga Sisters - Masasani, Ngxalothi No Masevela - Uyadela, Church of Christ - Ngangiboshiwe, Amanxusa Ka Jesu - Ujesu Yedwa Nje, Zamo No Senta - Igobondela, Isabelo - Isithembiso, Laduma - Mehleng, Ntu Bhekani Brothers - Igazi, Masibuyele Kujehova Choir - E Getsemane, The King Star Brothers - Kwapminda Kwenzeka, Abafana Beseluleko - Ubani Ongasebenze Usathane, Isithembiso - Ubothandaza, Ubuhle Bezi Ntombi - Kushothina, Pietersberg Top Ten - Mmapule, Amahlokoloko - Ningakhali, Dilika - Abafana Bedilik, Genesisi Endlu Nkulu - Dwala Lami, MzikayifaniButhelezi - Ungizondelani, Pat Mabasa Na Shikange Sisters - Jelasi, Ivangelani Loxolo - Izwi Legazi, Izingame Zoma - Giyamthakatmi, Amaduduzo/Ronnie Bodibe - Intombi, Derrick Ndzimande - Vus'umoya Wami, Johnny Dimba - Baleka Tshwala

Voicing: world/africa/

Review: A set of two CDs featuring piano accompaniments to the pieces in the folio of the same name (HL00740148) by Laura Ward.

Songlist: La Partida (ALVAREZ), Cancion de cuna (Anon), De que me sirve (BARBIERI), Cancion Andaluza: el Pan de Ronda (DE FALLA), Preludios (DE FALLA), Dios mio, que solos se quedan los muertos (DE FALLA), Olas gigantes (DE FALLA), Oracion de las madres que tienen a sus hijos en brazos (DE FALLA), El pano moruno (de Falla), Seguidilla murciana (DE FALLA), Asturiana (de Falla), Jota (DE FALLA), Nana (DE FALLA), Cancion (DE FALLA), Polo (DE FALLA), Amor y odio (GRANADOS), Callejeo (GRANADOS), La maja de Goya (GRANADOS), La maja dolorosa No. 1 (Granados), La maja dolorosa No. 2 (GRANADOS), La maja dolorosa NO. 3 (GRANADOS), El majo discreto (Granados), El majo olvidado (GRANADOS), El majo timido (GRANADOS), El mirar de la maja (GRANADOS), El tra la y el punteado (GRANADOS), La calle de la paloma (KILENYI), Encantadora Maria (KILENYI), El galan incognito (KILNEYI), Mi sueno (arr. KILENYI), Noche serena (KILENYI), La paloma blanca (arr. KILENYI), Preguntale a les estrellas (KILENYI), La sena (KILENYI), El trobador (KILENYI), Lagrimas mias (MARQUES), Seguidilla dolorosa de una enamorado (MISON), Al amor (OBRADORS), Chiquitita la novia (OBRADORS), Con amores, la mi madre (OBRADORS), Corazon, por que pasais (OBRADORS), Del cabello más sutil (Obradors), El majo celoso (OBRADORS), La mi sola, Laureola (Obradors), Amor bendito (OVALLE), Cancion picaresca (PALOMINO), Seguidillas religiosa (PLA), Cancion contra las madamitas gorgoriteadoras (ROSALES), Rima (TURINA), Cancion de timida (LA CALLE VALLEDOR)

Style: Low

Review: This ambitious 3-CD A Cappella Gospel set is produced, recorded and mixed by Steve Ivey of Nashville, TN's IMI Productions. Steve also sings duets with artists such as Laura Jewel, Maryline Blackburn, Jesse Lee Campbell Taryn Trexler, Steve Carpenter, G. Crew and Daniel J. Groups include The Jordanaires, and New Bethel; solo artists are Gianna Jessen, Lisa Bevril, Morgan Cryar, George McCullum, Rickey Payton, Rick Cua, Ferrell & Ferrell and others. Some favorites of the 50 are "Dig A Little Deeper," "Angel Band," "Nothing But The Blood," When The Roll Is Called Up Yonder" and "Rock of Ages" by the Jordannaires; Gianna Jessen's "It Is Well," Maryling Blackburn & Steve Ivey's "Mercy Me," "When It's Over," "Trust" and "Loose My Chains;" New Bethel's "Go Tell It On The Mountain," Take Me To The Water," "There Is a Balm in Gilead" and "Everytime I Feel The Spirit;" "Brethren We Have Met to Worship" by Morgan Cryar and Jesse Lee Campbell's "Doxology;" and Laura Jewel & Steve Ivey's "For The Beauty of the Earth," "Sweet Hour of Prayer" and "I Need Thee Every Hour. But there really isn't a weak cut here. Ivey has assembled a talented, deeply spiritual and spirited group here, and the result is wonderful heartfelt Gospel songs from the beginning of disc 1 to the end of disc 3!

Songlist: Jesus Loves Me - Urban Nation, Holy Holy Holy - Steve Ivey and Laura Jewel, Dig A Little Deeper, Softly And Tenderly - The Jordanaires, Somebody's Knockin' At Your Door - New Bethel, Water In The Well - Maryline Blackburn and Steve Ivey, Si Ya Hamba - Urban Nation, It Is Well - Gianna Jessen, Mercy Me - MAryline Blacjburn and Steve Ivey, Oh How I Love Jesus - Jesse Lee Campbell and Steve Ivey, Standin' In The Need Of Prayer - New Bethel, Diggin' - Daniel J. and Steve Ivey, Go Tell It On The Mountain - New Bethel, When It's Over - New Bethel, Amazing Grace - Maryline Blackburn and Steve Ivey, For The Beauty Of The Earth - The Jordanaires, Hold On - New Bethel, Love LineDoxology - Daniel J. and Steve Ivey, Take Me To The Water - Jesse Lee Campbell, Who's Gonna Tell 'Em - New Bethel, Sweet Hour Of Prayer - Daniel J. and Steve Ivey, Brethren We Have Met To Worship - Morgan Cryar, Be Thou My Vision - Taryn Trxler and Steve Ivey, Trust - Maryline Blackburn and Steve Ivey, Go Down Moses, Oh Freedom - Rickey Payton, Loose My Chains - Maryline Blackburn and Steve Ivey, Walk With Me - George Mccullum, Nothing But The Blood - The Jordanaires, There Is A Balm In Gilead - New Bethel, Jesus Is Mine - Maryline Blackburn, Ring Them Bells - New Bethel, Everytime I Feel The Spirit - New Bethel, I Need Thee Every Hour - Laura Jewel and Steve Ivey, When The Roll Is Called Up Yonder - The Jordanaires, Yes God - Maryline Blackburn, The Solid Rock - Rick Cua, Swing Low, Sweet Chariot, Now We Have Love - Maryline Blackburn and Steve Ivey, When The Saint's Go Marching In - New Bethel, Let The Water Rise - Daniel J. and Steve Ivey, Rock Of Ages - The Jordanaires, Old Time Religon - New Bethel, In Tune - Steve Ivey, Great Is Thy Faithfulness - Farrell and Farrell, Ezekial Saw The Wheel - New Bethel, Just A Closer Walk - The Jordanaires, Kum Ba Ya - New Bethel

Voicing: gospel/contemporary-christian-cds/

Review: "Gigue (Suite in C Major)" is a movement from one of Bach's unaccompanied Cello sonatas, arranged here for tenor and bass. It has a fast 3/4 jazz feeling, with some tricky dove-tailing between the voices, the object being to make it sound like on instrument. The Swingle Singers have often used this "Organ Fugue BMV 578" as a concert opener. The challenge in singing without a rhythm section is to make the piece swing without the help of the instruments.The "Bourree" has probably been the most widely performed of all Ward Swingle arrangements. This is an a cappella version using three different styles: child-like "la-la-la's," gently swinging "oo" sounds and rather brassy "ah" sounds.

Songlist: Organ Fugue, Bourree, Gigue, Gavotte

Voicing: a-cappella/arrangements/vocal-jazz/

Review: These various Bach tunes are some of the finest of Ward Swingle's arrangements. The rich flowing harmonies, and clever voice leading provide a nice challenge for an intermediate jazz choir. A must have in your Ward Swingle Collection!

Songlist: Fugue in D Minor (Art of the Fugue), Aria Suite in D Major, Largo, Prelude No. 22

Voicing: a-cappella/arrangements/vocal-jazz/

Review: July in Louisville, KY saw a very competitive Chorus competition, and featured here are single cuts from the top 21 finishers, notably "Summertime" by the Alexandria Harmonizers, #4, "Medley: Camptown Races/Ring Ring de Banjo/Buffalo Gals" by New Tradition Chorus, #3, "Make Them Hear You" by The Northern Lights, #2, and "New Ashmolean Marching Society" and "I Have Dreamed" by Gold Medalists Ambassadors of Harmony. Marvelous!

Songlist:

Voicing: a-cappella/concert-dvds/

Review: Indianapolis, IN welcomed the 2004 Sweet Adelines' convention to their beautiful city, where talented, massive choruses belted out the harmonies with gold, silver and bronze on the line. We have here the top ten choruses. In 5th place was "San Diego Chorus", in 4th the "Ronninge Show Chorus," 3rd, "Gem City Chorus," 2nd, "Skyline Chorus," and the Gold Medal winners, "Harborlights Chorus." There are four songs by The Harborlights Chorus, "The Joint Is Jumpin', "When Day Is Done," "Roses of Yesterday," and "My Honey's Lovin' Arms." Skyline Chorus performs 3 songs, Gem City, three, Ronninge Show Chorus 3 and San Diego chorus 3. The 6th through 10th place groups perform 2 songs each. Powerful, spirited harmonies, a "best of" CD for lovers of Sweet Adelines Chorus music.

Songlist: From The First Hello To The Lost Goodbye - Channelaire Chorus, Mamma Goes Where Papa Goes - Spirit of the Gulf Chorus, (Here Am I) Brokenhearted - City of Lakes Church, If I Give My Heart To You - City of Lakes Church, Medley: Alabamy Bound; Alabama Jubilee - Pride of Portland Chorus, Love Me and the World is Mine - Pride of Portland Chorus, Original Dixieland One Step - Pacific Sound Chorus, It's Time To Sing Sweet Adeline Again - Pacific Sound Chorus, There Goes My heart - San Diego Chorus, Medley: I Love Jazz; At The Jazz Band Ball - San Diego Chorus, Young And Foolish - San Diego Chorus, Medley: Deed I Do; Put Your Arms Around Me, Honey - Ronninge Show Chorus, Heart of A Clown - Ronninge Show Chorus, Medley: I'm The Last of the Red Hot Mamas; You've Gotta See Mama Every Night; Nobody Knows What A Redhead Mama Can Do - Ronninge Show Chorus, What'll I Do? - Gem City Chorus, Medley: Roll On Mississippi; On The Mississippi; Daddy I'm Saying Goodbye - Gem City Chorus, Medley: I Used To Call Him Baby; Yes Sir, That's My Baby; Baby Face; I Want A Girl - Skyline Chorus, If You Love Me - Skyline Chorus, Medley: I'm The Last of the Red Hot Mamas; Nobody Knows What A Redhead Mama - Skyline Chorus, Can Do; You've Gotta See Mama Every Night - Skyline Chorus, Joint is Jumpin - Harborlites Chorus, When Day Is Done - Harborlites Chorus, Roses of Yesterday - Harborlites Chorus, My Honey's Lovin' Arms - Harborlites Chorus

Voicing: barbershop/dvds/

Review: Looking at the wonderful pix of the top 10 Choruses at the International Chorus Finals in October 2005 in Detroit, we totally want to be there. Incredible costumes, joyous faces-dozens of beaming, beautiful women having big fun singing their hearts out, going for the Gold. That honor went to Scottsdale (AZ) Chorus, so consistently fine that they have entered 13 International competitions since 1976 and have placed no lower than 3rd, winning it all 4 times! Silver went to Pride of Baltimore Chorus, 3rd to Kansas City (MO) Chorus and 4th to Coastline Show Chorus of Providence, RI. This "best-of" compilation features 2 songs each for the 5th to 10th place finishers, beginning with Greater Nassau Chorus's "At A Georgia Camp Meeting," 3 songs each for 5th through 2nd place groups, and 4 songs for the Champs, as it should be! Favorites among these 26 tunes are Irving Berlin's "What'll I Do," by Scottsdale Chorus, Berlin's "How Deep Is the Ocean," by Pride of Baltimore, "Runnin' Wild," by Kansas City Chorus and "The Joint Is Jumpin'" by Coastline Show Chorus. Powerful harmonies, hitting on all cylinders from the Motor City!

Songlist: At A Georgia Camp Meeting, The Masquerade Is Over, If I Give My Heart To You, No No Nora, You Keep Coming Back Like A Song, How Many Hearts Have You Broken, Brokenhearted, After My Laughter Came Tears, Auld Lang Syne, Climb Every Mountain, Charleston, The Joint Is Jumpin', If The Rest Of The World Don't Want You, Mistakes, I'll Never Say Never Again, Runnin Wild, From The First Hello To The Last Goodbye, How Deep Is The Ocean, Once Upon a Time, Original Dixieland One, What'll I Do, If You Love Me, Really Love Me, Swanee, There'll Be Some Changes Made, Going, Going, Gone

Voicing: barbershop/dvds/

Review: Once again, another fine year for the Sweet Adelines International Chorus competition, not to mention the fact that it was held in Las Vegas, Nevada. This year we have North Metro Chorus in 3rd place, the Melodeers in 2nd, and champions this year were the Rich Tone Chorus, of Richardson, Texas. Some of today's, and yesterday's, finest songs were transformed into tight barbershop arrangements and sung with gusto by these choruses, who were all very deserving of their spot in the top 10.

Songlist: Runnin Wild - Velvet Hills, I I Ruled The World - Velvet Hills, Fugue In D Minor - Velvet Hills, One - Velvet Hills, You Tookk Advantage Of Me - Channelaire, My Honey's Lovin' Arms - Channelaire, The First Hello To The Last Goodbye - Channelaire, Tuxedo Junction - Channelaire, Please Don't Talk About Me When I'm Gone - Pacific Sound, I've Got The Sun In The Morning - Pacific Sound, I Don't Care If The Sun Don't Shine - Pacific Sound, I Get The Blues When It Rains - Pacific Sound, The First Hello To The Last Goodbye - Spirit Of The Gulf, I'll Never Say Never Again - Spirit Of The Gulf, You Can't Stop The Beat - San Diego Chorus, You Keep Coming Back Like A Song - San Diego Chorus, When My Baby Smiles - San Diego Chorus, Listen To My Heart - San Diego Chorus, Great Come And Get It Day - Gem City, What'll I Do - Gem City, Swanee - Gem City, When I Lift Up My Head - Gem City, Cinderella - Skyline, Step Sisters' Lament - Skyline, My Romance - Skyline, Hey Good Lookin' - Skyline, We Are The People Of The Street - North Metro, At The End Of The Day - North Metro, Powder Your Face - North Metro, Into The Fire - North Metro, Trumpet Voluntary - Melodeers, Bridal Chorus - Melodeers, Let Me Call You Sweetheart - Melodeers, Celebration - Melodeers, Hava Nagilah - Melodeers, Hokey Pokey - Melodeers, Shout - Melodeers, Yes Sir That's My Baby - Rich-Tones, I'm Alone Because I Love You - Rich-Tones, New Attitude - Rich-Tones, Man Of La Mancha - Rich-Tones

Voicing: barbershop/dvds/

Review: Another great Sweet Adelines International convention took place this year, and this one was especially exciting as it was held in Las Vegas, Nevada! The Bay Area favorite, the Razzcals did quite well this year, taking 3rd Place. Four Betty's, who also put on a great show at our 2005 Harmony Sweepstakes, Chicago Regional, grabbed 2nd place. This year's Queens, SALT, stole the show, reminding us once again, so many great performers/musicians have come out of Sweden. This CD features two tracks from the quartets placing 4th - 10th, three tracks from Four Bettys and the Razzcals, and we get to hear four tracks from SALT! If you're looking for the best in Sweet Adelines' recordings, this collection definitely delivers!

Songlist: Jazz Me Bllues - Ice, Moon River - Ice, Gospel Medley - Ice, Orange Colored Sky - Moxie Ladies Quartet, I'm Dancing This Dance In The Wrong Romance - Moxie Ladies Quartet, That's My Weakness Now - Moxie Ladies, Birth Of The Blues - Moxie Ladies, This Could Be The Start Of Something Big - Capri, Little Lady Make Believe - Capri, She's Gonna Fly - Capri, Oh You Beautiful Doll - Jukebox, When You Wish Upon A Star - Jukebox, Lady Madonna, Hallelujah Barbershop - Jukebox, Great Day - Xtreme, Ballin' The Jack - Xtreme, In His Eyes - Xtreme, Zing Went The Strings Of My Heart - Zing, If You Love Me Really Love Me - Zing, There Goes My Heart - Zing, The Very Thought Of You - Zing, With Plenty Of Money And You - Jackpot, Come Take Your Place In Your Heart - Jackpot, That's Life - Jackpot, Roses Of Yesterday - Razzcal, Flirty Eyes - Razzcals, There Goes My Heart - Razzcals, Put Your Arms Around Me Honey - Four Bettys, I'm Alone Because I Love You - Four Bettys, If I Love Again - Four Bettys, Great Day - Four Bettys, When The Red Red Robin Comes Bob Bob Bobbin Along - Salt, If You Were The Only Girl In The World - Salt, We Are Family - Salt, Cowboy Yodel Song - Salt

Voicing: barbershop/dvds/

Review: The Vocal Group Hall Of Fame was created to honor the Greatest Vocal Groups of the World, to preserve their music at a world-class museum, to promote their music and memories throughout the world and to pay tribute to the inductees as National Music Treasures. The Vocal Group Hall of Fame was designed to perpetuate the life long careers of the Inducted Artists, recognizing them as inventors and creators of the music that influenced today's pop culture, promoting their music to many fans, and bring to the attention of the world, their legacy for many generations to come. The Vocal Group Hall Of Fame's Annual Induction Ceremony honors these great groups and features their legendary music.

Songlist: Never My Love, Pennies From Heaven, Rock 'n Roll Is Here To Stay, Little Darlin', More, Return To Sender & Jailhouse Rock, The Lion Sleeps Tonight, If I Didn't Care, Aquarius/ Let The Sunshine In, Be My Baby, You Keep Me Hangin' On, I Only Have Eyes For You, Why Do Some Fools Fall In Love, In The Still Of The Night, Betchya By Goly Wow, Loves Me Like A Rock, Perfidia, Help Me Rhonda & California Girls, Only You & The Great Pretender, Charlie Brown, Ruby, Ruby, What A Wonderful World, Under the Boardwalk, For the Love Of Money & Love Train, Love Train

Voicing: doowop/dvds/

Review: The spiritual culture of Russia is reflected in the beauty of its churches and monasteries, paintings and frescoes that adorn them and - above all - in the sacred music that is sung in them. This program celebrates the history of Christmas in Russia and features 15 beautiful holiday songs. Holy Russia is a vocal and musical treasure that you will enjoy year after year.

Songlist: Today Christ, God Is With Us, From My Youth, The Golden Ring, The Cherubic Hymn, Holy Day Troparion, Song of the Magi, Rejoice the Righteous, Credo, Praise the Lord from the Heavens, Nunc Dimittis, Kaliadka, Epiphany Troparion, The Cherubic Hymn, Praise the Name of the Lord

Voicing: cds/russian-choral-music/

Review: The popularity of the Gospel Choir is one of the major reasons for the growth of the genre. Crystal Rose searched its vault and selected the best live performances ever for a visually exciting gospel music experience. This DVD compilation provides pure gospel in the form of Praise & Worship as well as contemporary and traditional gospel songs by some of today's most recognized choirs.

Songlist: The Vision, Praise Is What I Do, Don't Forget To Remember, Jesus Paid It All, Jesus Paid It All (reprise), Great Things, There Is No Way, Bless His Name, Hold On, He Made A Way

Voicing: gospel/dvds/

Review: An LWT South Bank Show, presented by Melvyn Bragg, exploring the phenomenon of countertenor singing With its unique, soaring beauty, the high male voice is today enjoying a huge resurgence in popularity. Heirs to the celebrated castrati of the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, today's countertenors produce their voices by wholly natural means. In this program international stars Michael Chance, Andreas Scholl and James Bowman, as well as pop star Jimmy Somerville, shed light on the appeal of the male falsetto. Meanwhile, experts such as Michael White place today's countertenors in their historical context. What emerges is a compelling portrayal of an unmistakable vocal style, rooted in church and operatic tradition, yet completely up-to-date, resonating louder today than at any time in the last two hundred years. Following the South Bank Show is a 70-minute program of specially recorded performance material, showcasing the extraordinary talents of today's most popular countertenors.

Songlist: Never Weather-Beaten Saile, Sorrow Stay: Can She Excuse My Wrongs?, Flow My Tears, Since I First Saw Your Face, Sound The Trumpet; O Dive Custos, Strike the Viol; Evening Hymn, Ode on the Death of Henry Purcell, Cantata BWV 170, Cum Dederit, Stabat Mater, Ombra Mai Fu (Xerxes), Dove Sei; Civi Tiranno (Rodelinda), When I Was One-and-Twenty, Is My Team Ploughing?

Review: This helpful choral songbook contains newly composed songs and classics arranged with sensitivity to smaller and developing choirs. Thoughtful SAB voicing makes this useful resource a must-do for slim Sundays and for times when rehearsal times are limited. The acoustic qualities of the arrangements and the optional instrumental obbligatos open this book up to both traditional and contemporary-styled worship ensembles. A variety of subjects and writers are featured and a pleasant track option is available. Titles include:Come, Walk With Me; The Earth Is the Lord's; Hear Us, O Father; I Will Rejoice and Be Glad; Lord of Life; On Jordan's Stormy Banks; One Day We'll Stand; Train Up a Child; A Choral Benediction. Available separately: SAB Book, Listening CD, Preview Pack, Instrumental Pack CD-ROM, StudioTrax CD.

Songlist:

Review: From the veteran writing team of Don Besig and Nancy Price, we present what is sure to become an Advent tradition. Assembled from some of their best-selling anthems, this helpful collection is a splendid resource for your seasonal programming. Whether performed individually or as a mini-cantata, your choir will resonate with the simple messages of hope, peace, love and joy! This compilation can accompany your candle lighting each week to help create precious moments of reflection as you experience the journey of Christmas.

Songlist: Will We Know Him?, Waiting for the Light!, O Come, Emmanuel, A Little Child Will Come to Lead Us, When Emmanuel Has Come, Candles of Advent

Review: The follow up to Eclipse's first contemporary album 'Once,' 'Think Twice' was a much anticipated release. Here are six original arrangements from that album! For five male voices!

Songlist: Heaven's Eyes, Keep Pushin' On, Kick Back, Relax, Live It On Up, Pouring Rain, Think Twice

Voicing: a-cappella/arrangements/christmas/contemporary/

Review: Adele is currently the most acclaimed female singer of the era and her songs are hits worldwide. Have your choir singing the latest hit music. Adele returned to the pop charts in spectacular style, breaking records and achieving tremendous commercial success. This soulful piano ballad evokes themes of nostalgia and reflection for a wonderful choral showcase for choirs of all ages and levels.From her second album 21 and also performed by Gwyneth Paltrow on Glee "Turning Tables" has a piano accompaniment that is almost classical in approach, the reflective vocals express emotion of deep melancholy tinged with hopefulness. "Someone Like You" opens with a single voice on the opening verse, the vocal textures gradually build into a full-voiced chorus that expresses the emotional message of the song. Ideal for all types of choral ensembles! "Rolling in the Deep" can be performed a cappella, as in the GLEE version, or with the bluesy, soulful accompaniment. The all-girl Troubletones sing a phenomenal mash-up of two Adele hits in Season Three. Alternating between the aggressive "Rumour Has It" and a more accepting "Someone Like You," this epic pairing offers solo opportunities and powerful vocal backups. A fantastic SSA feature!

Songlist: Turning Tables, Someone Like You, Rolling In The Deep, Rumour Has It / Someone Like You, Hello

Voicing: sheet-music/female-voices/

Review: Sing the songs of the Queen of Soul! "Respect" - You'll bring down the house with this high-powered sizzler! The 1967 #1 hit by Aretha Franklin is a great showcase for a special soloist. "Think" - This is one of Aretha's iconic songs and always listed as one of the greatest pop & R&B songs of all time. This arrangement stays true to the style and allows your students a chance to dig into this important style. "(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman" - Carole King wrote it and Aretha Franklin first recorded it - that is what we call pop music royalty. This song has been covered by other female singers who fall into the pop music royalty category including Celine Dion, Gloria Estefan, and Mary J. Blige. Now its time for your women to take ownership of this R&B classic and experience the power of this great song.

Songlist: Respect, Queen of Soul (A Salute to Aretha Franklin), Think, (You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman

Review: Surely one of the greatest American vocal groups whose catchy songs and sibling harmony are a signature sound of an era. "Help Me Rhonda" - The Beach Boys at their best! This authentic doo-wop arrangement "sounds hard and sings easy"! Guy groups (and everyone else) will love it! "I Get Around" Your audience will recognize this number 1 hit from 1964 immediately and your guys' groups will love recreating the spectacular sounds of an earlier era. "Good Vibrations" - It was the sound that changed rock music forever! The number 1 hit from 1966 in a great arrangement by Ed Lojeski. "Little Deuce Coup" - Fast wheels, four-on-the-floor - your guys will really respond to this 1963 favorite. A great motivational choice! "In My Room" - The signature harmonies and deeply felt lyrics of the Beach Boys are front and center in this smooth TTBB arrangement of their 1963 pop hit.

Songlist: I Get Around, Good Vibrations, Help Me Rhonda, In My Room, Little Deuce Coupe

Review: "Fame" - This favorite Golden Globe and Academy Award-winner really kicks in Ben Bram's new pop a cappella arrangement. A perfect choice to open or close any concert. "Uptown Funk" - Hitting number one on five different Billboard charts, Mark Ronson's chart-topper featuring guest vocals by Bruno Mars is hot, hot, hot! "I Need Your Love" - DJ Calvin Harris collaborated with English performer Ellie Goulding on this top-forty hit. Ben Bram's contemporary treatment is sure to be a hit with your a cappella group! "Firework" - Ben Bram is known for his work on The Sing-Off and Pitch Perfect, and for arranging for groups such as The Backbeats and Pentatonix. This wellcrafted treatment of the Katy Perry hit will make your pop a cappella group come alive.

Songlist: Fame, Uptown Funk, Firework

Review: "Listen" - From the hit movie Dreamgirls, this Beyonce ballad captures the power and the emotion portrayed in the film. A super choice for graduation or any program! "Rise Up" - Be who you are is the uplifting message of this song by Beyoncé from the soundtrack to the film Epic. An inspirational selection for choirs of all levels! "Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)" - This number 1 hit by Beyonce was certified quadruple platinum with its infectious dance-pop groove and inspiring a worldwide dance craze. This setting is accessible and will be fun for girls' groups of all ages! "Spirit" - In addition to providing the voice of lioness Nala in the 2019 live action remake of Disney's The Lion King, Beyoncé created an anthem perfectly situated for choral singing--a collective, full-throated pop/gospel appreciation of the resilience of the human (and animal) spirit!

Songlist: Listen, Rise Up, Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It), Spirit (from The Lion King 2019)

Review: Contemporary a cappella arranger Deke Sharon does his magic on the classic Billy Joel song "Lullabye (Goodnight, My Angel)". An absolute winner! Kirby Shaw's exquisite a cappella arrangement of this stunning Billy Joel pop ballad "The Longest Time" is available separately: men's and women's ensembles. Don't miss it! Billy Joel's pop hit from 1983 "And So It Goes" is a perennial favorite and evokes an even earlier time in America's pop history. Now available for mixed and SSA voicings, your groups will love to perform these well-crafted arrangements.

Songlist: And So It Goes, Lullabye (Goodnight, My Angel), The Longest Time

Voicing: a-cappella/arrangements/contemporary-female/

Review: Billy Joel is surely one of the great songwriters of contemporary pop songs and many of his songs are particularily suited for a cappella singing. Kirby Shaw's exquisite a cappella arrangement of his pop ballad "And So It Goes" is stunning and Kirby also does a fantastic job with "Lullaby (Goodnight, My Angel), one of the most poignant and beautiful songs of the '90s. "The Longest Time" is an excellent piece for featuring and recruiting men for your choral program. It is an authentic transcription of the original Billy Joel hit, and as such it will have automatic appeal with both singers and audiences.

Songlist: The Longest Time, And So It Goes, Lullabye (Goodnight, My Angel)

Voicing: a-cappella/arrangements/ttbb/

Review: Billy Joel is certainly one of the great American songwriters of the modern pop era and his works are often particularly suitable for an a cappella treatment. His iconic hit "Piano Man" from the 1970s will make a nice concert change of pace in this arrangement by Philip Lawson of King's Singers fame. Smooth vocal backup and great harmonies give "New York State of Mind" a special appeal. "Lullabye (Goodnight, My Angel)"is one of the most poignant and beautiful songs of the '90s, now in an a cappella setting. This ballad is simply stunning. Kirby Shaw's exquisite a cappella arrangement of "And So It Goes" is stunning. Don't miss it! Billy's 1978 pop hit "Just The Way You Are" expresses a universal truth in a simple and beautiful way, and this a cappella setting will resonate with listeners at many concert occasions. This is a great collection and will have the audiences singing along..

Songlist: New York State of Mind, And So It Goes, Lullabye (Goodnight, My Angel), Piano Man, Just The Way You Are

Voicing: a-cappella/arrangements/contemporary/

Review: "Blowin' in the Wind" - Written by Bob Dylan and covered by countless artists, this protest song from the 1960s raises questions about peace, war and freedom. The answers are there, but not easy to find. "Forever Young" - This beautiful folk song is perfect for your concert setting and important for your students as they explore recent American history. Bob Dylan's seminal work was originally composed as a lullaby for his eldest son Jesse, bestowing wishes and blessings upon him. As a choral, Forever Young works especially well as a adulatory song for graduations! "Times They Are A-Changin'" - This re-imagined interpretation of the classic Bob Dylan song is perfect for any concert with a social justice theme. The re-harmonization and contrasting musical style will bring a new attention and poignancy to these well-known words. There is a new musical home for this in concert halls where it has not been found before.

Songlist: Blowin' in the Wind, Forever Young, Times They Are A-Changin'

Review: The breezy song "The Lazy Song" is a tribute to the joys of doing nothing! With its reggae-flavored groove and irresistible melody, your singers will have a blast as they recreate the goofy original What would you do if you had a billion dollars? The pop hit of 2010 by Travie McCoy featuring Bruno Mars was covered by the boys in Glee with a breezy, reggae-type style that connects immediately to the listener in a happy, feel-good way. "Just the Way You Are" - The layered wordless accompaniment provides a steady and soulful underlay for the sweet pop melody and lyrics of the Bruno Mars chart-topper. Perfect for Valentine's Day, prom, spring concert or any romantic occasion! "When I Was Your Man" - Piano driven harmonies support the soulful vocals of this acoustic ballad by superstar Bruno Mars that soared to the #1 position on the Hot 100, AC and Adult Rock charts in 2013. It lends itself beautifully to choral and will showcase your pop or concert groups at their best!

Songlist: The Lazy Song, Billionaire, When I Was Your Man, Just the Way You Are

Review: Bruno Mars is a top selling artist worldwide and a tremendous young talent. The breezy song "The Lazy Song" is a tribute to the joys of doing nothing! With its reggae-flavored groove and irresistible melody, your singers will have a blast as they recreate the goofy original. "Just the Way You Are" - The layered wordless accompaniment provides a steady and soulful underlay for the sweet pop melody and lyrics of the Bruno Mars chart-topper. Perfect for Valentine's Day, prom, spring concert or any romantic occasion! "When I Was Your Man" - Piano driven harmonies support the soulful vocals of this acoustic ballad by superstar Bruno Mars that soared to the #1 position on the Hot 100, AC and Adult Rock charts in 2013. It lends itself beautifully to choral and will showcase your pop or concert groups at their best! "Treasure" - Your pop and jazz groups will love re-creating the harmonies and choreography of this huge hit!

Songlist: The Lazy Song, Just the Way You Are (Amazing), Bruno Mars - Hitmaker!, When I Was Your Man, Treasure

Review: Bruno Mars has it all - the looks, the moves, the voice and he writes some great songs! "Forget You" was nominated for Song of the Year and Record of the Year and was famously covered by Gwyneth Paltrow and the Glee cast in Season 2. "Just the Way You Are" was ha huge hit with its confident pop melody, great groove and romantic vocals. "The Lazy Song" is a tribute to the joys of doing nothing! With its reggae-flavored groove and irresistible melody, your singers will have a blast as they recreate the goofy original! "Marry You" will make everyone smile with its appealing rhythmic groove, infectious melody and echoes of an earlier pop era. Fantastic staging opportunities abound!

Songlist: Forget You, Marry You, The Lazy Song

Voicing: a-cappella/arrangements/3-parts/

Review: Younger choirs and their audiences will love the chance to sing music by the incredibly talented and popular Bruno Mars! "When I Was Your Man" - Piano driven harmonies support the soulful vocals of this acoustic ballad by superstar Bruno Mars that soared to the #1 position on the Hot 100, AC and Adult Rock charts in 2013. It lends itself beautifully to choral and will showcase your pop or concert groups at their best! "Treasure" - Your pop and jazz groups will love re-creating the harmonies and choreography of this huge hit! "Bruno Mars - Hitmaker!"- Experience the range of his talent with this 6-minute medley that showcases his success. Opening reflectively with a snippet of Lighters, it moves into the Grammy-winning Just the Way You Are, and then transitions into a quicker pace with the reggae-infused Billionaire, The Lazy Song, Nothin' on You, and Grenade.

Songlist: Count on Me, Bruno Mars - Hitmaker!, When I Was Your Man, Treasure

Review: "Will You Love Me Tomorrow?" - This ballad takes on a whole new meaning when seen in the context of Beautiful - The Carole King Musical, the Broadway musical chronicling her life and early career. The song has been recorded by many artists, including this 1972 version by Roberta Flack. Poignant and touching! "Where You Lead" - This classic has found a new audience through the television series Gilmore Girls. Quickly learned, this arrangement will be a favorite. "You've Got a Friend" - the classic hit from 1971 offers a universal message of hope and reassurance. Recently included in the Broadway musical Beautiful, this is a wonderful feel-good song for choirs of all types and many concert occasions! "I Feel The Earth Move" - One of rock's most iconic women's songs, this pulsing, rhythmic arrangement incorporates elements of doo-wop and contemporary a cappella beneath a barn-burning solo. Vocal or other percussion optional. "(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman" - Now its time for your women to take ownership of this R&B classic and experience the power of this great song.

Songlist: Will You Love Me Tomorrow?, Where You Lead, You've Got a Friend, I Feel The Earth Move, (You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman