The rich blend of Tenors, Baritones and Basses in the male voice choir has an appealing homogeneity and power, one that has flourished in Wales hymn-singing festivals for centuries. 15 memorable tunes: "God Bless the Prince of Wales," written in 1862 gets the CD off to a rousing start, and the two best-loved Welsh hymns "Cvm Rhondda" (Guide me, O Thou Great Jehovah"), and "The Lord Is My Shepherd," now known as the tune "Crimond" are well done here. "Fantasia on Famous Welsh Airs," the dramatic "The Lost Chord," "See, The Conquering Hero Comes," "The Ash Grove," the exciting "Hunting the Hare," and two spirituals, "Swing Low, Sweet Chariot" and "Nobody Knows The Trouble I See Lord," are particularly wonderful. Some organ, harp and piano accompaniment. The Tredegar Orpheus Male Voice Choir, directed by Ieuan Davies, and the Rhos Orpheus Male Voice Choir are as good as they come, with a visceral, ancient wall of sound that hits us where we live. "Voice of Wales" is powerful and wonderful! |
