African Voices

Track Listings

 
1. Ofana Naye - Ladysmith Black Mambazo
2. N'Guatu - Oumou Sangare
3. Dodo
4. Lilizela Mlilizeli - Mahlathini & the Mahotella Queens
5. Thiapathioly - Youssou N'Dour
6. Mamou II
7. Kutheni Sithandwa - Miriam Makeba
8. Soir au Village - Manu Dibango
9. Bakake
10. Mand Jou - Salif Keita
11. Mbatu Mbatu

African Voices,Various Artists,Manteca,Africa,African Collections,African Folk,Afro-Pop,Int'l & World Music,Pop,World Music,Worldbeat
Voices from Heaven
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Wonderful, memorable singing.
  • Nice and relaxing
  • A display of God's gifts
  • SOUTH AFRICAN HARMONY AT ITS FINEST
  • Tribal, Caribbean, old-school gospel, and much in between
Voices from Heaven
The Soweto Gospel Choir
Manufacturer: Shanachie
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Africa | International | Styles | Music
South AfricaSouth Africa | Africa | International | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | International | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music
GospelGospel | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Blessed
  2. African Spirit
  3. Soweto Gospel Choir - Blessed Live in Concert
  4. The Best of Ladysmith Black Mambazo
  5. Exotic Voices from Africa: 30 of the Best African Vocal Groups

ASIN: B0006TRO6I
Release Date: 2005-01-25

Tracks:

  1. Jikela Emaweni
  2. Vuma
  3. Thina Simnqobile
  4. Zanele
  5. Paradise Road
  6. Ahuna Ya Tswanag Le Jesu / Kammatla
  7. Many Rivers to Cross / Going Down Jordan / Amen (Medley)
  8. Amazing Grace
  9. Thula Baba
  10. Sikulandile
  11. Malaika
  12. Hlanganani
  13. Bayete
  14. Jerusalem
  15. Holy City / Bayete (Medley)
  16. African Dream

Amazon.com

South African choral music is renowned for passionate singing and soul-stirring harmonies. The Soweto Gospel Choir is made up of top talent from throughout that hard-scrabble yet celebrated Township. All sixteen tracks were seemingly recorded studio-live with no overdubbing or after-the-fact prettying-up. Paradise Road is led by a powerful pair of female voices who sing in English about walking hand-in-hand toward a place where there will be no more pain. It is almost unbearably poignant. A ceremonial yet ecstatic version of "Amazing Grace" renews the power and grandeur of a seriously hackneyed hymn. The selections are either sung a cappella or accompanied by a guitar-led mbaqanga combo, plus drums, hand-clapping, stamping, exhortations, whistling ,and high-pitched ululations. There is even a taste of sacred R&B and hip-hop! The lord being praised here is obviously a robust but loving realist; the voices are redolent of humanity in all its fragile, undying splendor. --Christina Roden

Album Description

Soweto Gospel Choir's Shanachie debut, Voices From Heaven, is a stunning recording that delivers the full range of the choir's talent. The sheer aural beauty of the voices, both in powerful solo segments and lush choral harmonies, makes a memorable impact. But there also is an unquantifiable quotient of spirit—the heartfelt, sincere joyousness that cannot be taught or simulated—that infuses the Choir's performances. It is this quality that enables them to make even very familiar material such as "Amazing Grace" or Jimmy Cliff's "Many Rivers To Cross" sound fresh. The Choir moves easily from the traditional a capella Mbube, popularized internationally by Ladysmith Black Mambazo to straightforward church hymns to rollicking "township jive"-inflected numbers with band backing. The most universal, direct and powerful instrument is the human voice and on Voices From Heaven Soweto Gospel Choir revels in this "first instrument" as the essence of human musical expression.

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Wonderful, memorable singing........2007-07-06

This album really displays the energy and distinction of this group. Great singing, great arrangements, hugely energetic and dynamic. Highly recommended for anyone with an eclectic taste in music.

4 out of 5 stars Nice and relaxing.......2007-03-13

I found that this CD was very, very enjoyable to listen to, the music when in English was accessible, when it was not, just purely relaxing and in no short order, helped me feel the spirit. There are no chants and songs with lyrics that are repeated over and over and over again here. Just simple music that would serve to uplift the mind and the spirit.

5 out of 5 stars A display of God's gifts.......2007-02-12

I not only bought the CD i was blessed to watch them live on their current tour of the United States. When the concert was over it was obvious that everyone wanted more and i could hear a little voice behind me saying "encore". What a refreshing sound from such a small group and they sing with such passion and joy! I recommend this album to everyone who wants to hear real voices sing. An amazing display of God's gift to man.

5 out of 5 stars SOUTH AFRICAN HARMONY AT ITS FINEST.......2006-11-03

Purchased Voices From Heaven,after seeing a live
performance of "Blessed." While the audio only album
cannot fully describe the songs on this album,the way
a live video can,it was still very enjoyabloe.The harmony
was at times "soul wrenching." The presentation,
captivating!

My favorite songs were: "Ahuna Ya Twanag Le Jesu" (Nobody
Like Jesus,)The classic South African Lullabye "Thula Baba"
and the Johnny Clegg standard "My African Dream." This was
an outstanding performance.I wish I had seen it live.

4 out of 5 stars Tribal, Caribbean, old-school gospel, and much in between.......2006-03-23

High quality and excitement throughout. Most are easy to recognize as gospel music, even when the specific form is unfamiliar. Songs vary in approach and language. Some are distinctly tribal in origin; others sound Caribbean, some are clearly American, old-school soul in origin. And much in between. But they tend to certain attributes. The core of each song is a steady, communal, simple chant. Songs feel like they are blocked out, and the chorus works through each song in blocks. Some have complex harmonies or even layers of separate parts of the chorus. Others seek the sacred in simplicity. One or two solo voices sing above the chorus in a much more individual, excited, complex, fervent spirit. Solos are mainly female; a few male voices. Individual leads effectively voice their wild devotion over the rock-solid steadiness of the community. Drums typically appear, usually in sparse, syncopated role, and always supporting the voices. Simple but stinging electric guitar accompanies a few pieces. Stand-outs: tr 3-Thina Simnqobile (Close, steady communal chant. Deep female voice above. Quick, light, syncopated drums. Precise clapping in complex rhythms. Ululating.) [56:33]
African Voices
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • The Voice Transcendant
  • Profound sound.
  • Uplifting
  • Great CD
  • Soothing, Melodious, Soulful voices from Africa
African Voices
Various Artists
Manufacturer: Narada
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Contemporary Folk | Folk | Styles | Music
Traditional FolkTraditional Folk | Folk | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Africa | International | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | International | Styles | Music
AfricaAfrica | Compilations | International | Styles | Music
Jazz FusionJazz Fusion | Jazz | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | New Age | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Compilations | New Age | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Adult Contemporary | Pop | Styles | Music
Adult AlternativeAdult Alternative | Pop | Styles | Music
ElectronicElectronic | Progressive | Rock | Styles | Music
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  1. En Mana Kuoyo
  2. The Constant Gardener
  3. Wonders of the African World
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  5. Tunula Eno

ASIN: B000005P64
Release Date: 1996-09-24

Tracks:

  1. Kothbiro - Ayub Ogada
  2. Dala - Ayub Ogada
  3. Ondiek - Ayub Ogada
  4. Sutu Kun - Vieux Diop
  5. Jali - Vieux Diop
  6. Ekibobo - Samite
  7. Ndere - Samite
  8. Wasuze Otya? - Samite
  9. Ngak - Lucky Diop
  10. Igne - Lucky Diop
  11. Mamadi - Lucky Diop
  12. Woza Azania - Kevin Nathaniel
  13. Tatenda - Kevin Nathaniel

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars The Voice Transcendant.......2005-09-26

Only a listen to this incredible and sublime collection with convince noise-weary ears and world-heavy souls of the healing power of the human voice.

I would love to hear a collection of this type which featured the voices of African women like Angelique Kidjo and Miriam Makeba.

Get it. You'll revisit it over and over.

5 out of 5 stars Profound sound........2004-02-28

Ive had this album for four years, I still listen to it on A weekly basis and never tire of it.It's very soul stirring,the first of the songs kothbiro is the most haunting of all of them.Dala and ondiek are my next favourites.
It's a wonderful album to have when life gets very chaotic and busy,it stops you right in your tracks.Highly reccommended as an introduction to the very wide scope of african music.

5 out of 5 stars Uplifting.......2004-01-25

I heard this CD when visiting Bogota. I walked into a gallery of the local artists and the music captured my soul. I was so moved by the melodies, I had to find out the title of the CD. The music is transcendent. My favorites are Kothbiro, Ondiek and Sutu Kun, and the invigorating, rythmic Ekbobo. But the best has to be the Wasuze Otya track with the laughter of the singers at the end of the track; you can sense their joy in their songs. The music is so uplifting and premeates with a positive feeling -- you can tell that the singers feel joy in living, and in life through the range of wonderful music; you want to go to their land, and be in their space. Wonderful!!! A must have!!!

5 out of 5 stars Great CD.......2003-12-23

This is one of the best CDs around. It is well worth it.

5 out of 5 stars Soothing, Melodious, Soulful voices from Africa.......2001-12-06

Very relaxing, very appealing voices. A great blend of lyrics, vocals and instruments come together to deliver a superb music CD with each song leaving you completely invigorated and revitalized
Exotic Voices from Africa: 30 of the Best African Vocal Groups
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Everybody please come the real world of Africa
Exotic Voices from Africa: 30 of the Best African Vocal Groups
Various Artists
Manufacturer: Arc Music
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Africa | International | Styles | Music
South AfricaSouth Africa | Africa | International | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | International | Styles | Music
AfricaAfrica | Compilations | International | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music
AfricaAfrica | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music
InternationalInternational | Imports | Stores | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Voices from Heaven
  2. The Best of Ladysmith Black Mambazo
  3. Blessed
  4. African Tribal Music & Dances
  5. The Best of Ladysmith Black Mambazo, Vol. 2

ASIN: B00004UDDA
Release Date: 2000-08-15

Tracks:

  1. Isigcino - Ladysmith Black Mambazo
  2. Mmele Pelo Le Moya - Baswa Ba Tumelo
  3. Ujesu Uyinkosi - Zyac Choir
  4. Orata Boetapele - Masogane A Tumelo
  5. Sengiyezwa - Majalefa A Morena
  6. Masasani - Simon Ngobeni Na Vatsonga Sisters
  7. Uyadela - Ngxalothi No Masevela
  8. Ngangiboshiwe - Church Of Christ
  9. Ujesu Yedwa Nje - Amanxusa Ka Jesu
  10. Igobondela - Zamo No Senta
  11. Isithembiso - Isabelo
  12. Mehleng - Laduma
  13. Igazi - Ntu Bhekani Brothers
  14. E Getsemane - Masibuyele Kujehova Choir
  15. Kwapminda Kwenzeka - The Kins Star Brothers

Tracks:

  1. Ubani Ongasbenze Usathane - Abafana Beseluleko
  2. Ubothandaza - Isithembiso
  3. Kushothina - Ubuhle Bezi Ntombi
  4. Mmapule - Pietersburg Top Ten
  5. Ningakhali - Amahlokoloko
  6. Abafana Bedilik - Dilika
  7. Dwala Lami - Genesisi Endlu Nkulu
  8. Ungizondelani - Mzikayifani Buthelezi
  9. Jelasi - Pat Mabasa Na Shikange Sisters
  10. Izwi Legazi - Ivangeli Loxolo
  11. Giyamthakatmi - Izingame Zoma
  12. Intombi - Amaduduzo/Ronnie Bodibe
  13. Vus'umoya Wami - Derrick Ndzimande
  14. Baleka Tshwala - Johnny Dimba
  15. Abazali Bami - Amaqhawe Asesandlwane

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Everybody please come the real world of Africa.......2000-09-18

For all the many albums available by these household names from Africa, what you get here, unlike the more polished studio albums, is the real african exotic voices. This one should repeat their success in african music. This album brings to your home the dangers, exhaustions, and exhilarations better than any journalism. I have first heard their voice in the greatest Paul Simon-penned "Homeless." since then, they are my greatest group in african music.
Soles on Earth
Average customer rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  • Cool Techno-Tribal Groove
  • Dissapointing!
  • Soles on Earth is Out of this World!!!
Soles on Earth
Zingaia
Manufacturer: Sequoia Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | International | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | New Age | Styles | Music
MeditationMeditation | New Age | Styles | Music
RelaxationRelaxation | New Age | Styles | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Dancers of Twilight
  2. Beneath the Veil
  3. Akwaba
  4. Original Face
  5. World Groove Mix, Vol. 1

ASIN: B0002SPPOG
Release Date: 2004-09-07

Tracks:

  1. Soles on Earth
  2. Bone Dance
  3. Dancing with Ganesha
  4. Nomad's Land
  5. In the Between
  6. In the Center
  7. Portal of Water
  8. Shamantic
  9. Sahaja
  10. Sky Dancer

Album Description

Find Yourself in the Rhythm - Let go into the sacred groove as Zingaia's world trance-dance music empowers you to find your own dance of life. Sensual African, Middle-Eastern and Indian rhythms, ecstatic global instruments and exotic voices come together in an irresistibly cool techno-tribal sound that will get your your feet moving and your spirit soaring. Musical mastermind Michael Breene has returned with an earthy, invigorating world groove tour-de-force. By combining ethnic instruments and voices with modern dance beats Zingaia has defined the leading edge of the global trance-dance sound. Put your body in motion and free your soul!

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Cool Techno-Tribal Groove.......2005-03-01

Wow ! This is a real departure from Zingaia's earlier releases and I love where they take me on this new musical adventure. Super cool techno-tribal beats, world rythyms and sampled voices from Africa and the Near and Far East blend beautifully. This release really transports me into a whole other world. While I really love the vocals from Abbi Spinner and Katlyn Breene from the previous releases, this new drum heavy trance inducing excursion from Zingaia is a complete a joy and an amazing listening experience.

1 out of 5 stars Dissapointing!.......2005-02-16

I might like this album better if I didn't already have a fairly large collection of albums by Putamayo World Music which are much better than this! The reason I mention that is that this album reminds of the things that company releases, just not nearly as good.

I have both of their other releases which are superb! They are all about Sacred Sex and praise the Lady and the Lord. This album is bland and boring compared to the other two. The only good thing I can really find to say about it is that it might be enjoyable to drum along with it.

However, I have several other albums I like better which are also good for drumming along with. If thier next album isn't any better I will have to revise my opinion of Zingaia!

5 out of 5 stars Soles on Earth is Out of this World!!!.......2004-10-27

This latest release by Zingaia (their third) is vastly different than their previous releases, both of which I absolutely love. Where their first release "Beneath the Veil" is a trance journey into the seductive heart of the Goddess, and their second release "Dancers of Twilight" featuring the alluring vocals of Abbi Spinner, further develops the original theme, deepening and expanding the voyage into musical spirit; with their latest release "Soles on Earth" Michael & Katlyn Breene and crew launch into a tribal poly-rhythmic trance dance groove that is no less than phenomenal. Middle Eastern, East Indian and African rhythms combine with sampled vocals from around the world to produce an album that sets the mind, body and spirit free to dance joyously to the pulsing rhythms of life. Definitively the most eclectic of their releases yet, Soles on Earth will stir your soul and get your feet moving. I give it my highest recommendation.
Palm World Voices: Baaba Maal [CD, DVD, Book & Map]
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Meet Baaba Maal....
  • Absolutely fantastic introduction.
Palm World Voices: Baaba Maal [CD, DVD, Book & Map]
Baaba Maal
Manufacturer: Palm Pictures (Audio
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Dance Pop | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Africa | International | Styles | Music
Senegal & GambiaSenegal & Gambia | Africa | International | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | International | Styles | Music
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  5. Djam Leelii

ASIN: B0009ZE9QW
Release Date: 2005-08-09

Tracks:

  1. Koni
  2. Jamma Jenngii
  3. Minuit
  4. Africans Unite
  5. Guelel
  6. Daande Lenol
  7. Bushes
  8. Mbolo
  9. Cherie
  10. Hamady Boiro
  11. Baayo

Tracks:

  1. Gorel [DVD]
  2. Joulowo [DVD]
  3. Jamma Jenngi [DVD]
  4. Hamady Boiro (Yelle) [DVD]
  5. Cherie [DVD]
  6. Yella [DVD]
  7. Ba [DVD]
  8. Mbaye [DVD]
  9. Bouyel [DVD]
  10. Kowoni Maayo Mi Yeewni [DVD]
  11. Kowoni Maayo Mi Yeewni [DVD]
  12. Daande Lenol [DVD]
  13. Kowoni Maayo Mi Yeewni [DVD]
  14. Mbolo [DVD]
  15. Cherie [DVD]
  16. Baayo [DVD]
  17. Ba [DVD]
  18. Ndakaro [DVD]
  19. Baaba [DVD] - Ernest Ranglin

Album Description

This deluxe package includes the following elements:

- A compilation CD showcasing the master's career in various stages.

- A 60 minute DVD featuring Baaba Maal performances, interviews, and journeys through Senegal's spectacular landscape and culture.

- A beautiful 48-page book stacked with dozens of photos and an accompanying essay penned by acclaimed British Journalist Robin Denselow.

- A 20" x 30" geographic and cultural map of Senegal that traces Baaba Maal's life, designed exclusively by the National Geographic Society for this release

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Meet Baaba Maal...........2005-11-12

This deluxe package -- a best-of CD, a DVD and a really pretty booklet, along with an ornate map of Senegal -- is a fine introduction to Baaba Maal, one of the great African pop superstars of our time. The real heart of this collection is the video disc, which includes a nice documentary that introduces Maal in the flesh, as it were, presenting the mix of sincere humility and cold calculation that his celebrity requires. Maal takes a film crew to his hometown, and even into his family compound, a humble set of stone buildings inside a walled courtyard; he explains how the Senegalese griot class -- the keepers of West African musical tradition -- initially attacked him as an interloper. Maal's social background, coming from a family of fishers, should have prevented him from performing music... and would have, had he not pursued his career regardless of their wishes... Now, of course, he is a huge star and has been embraced by the griots as a keeper of the flame and a gift from the gods... The film also discusses how Maal and his partner, Mansour Seck, researched music from other cultures and tribes, and how he has sought to widen his status to that of an "African" performer, while still maintaining their connection to their local roots. It's a fascinating portrait of an artist who is both humble and driven: his charisma and inner power burst out of every frame, even as he appears to be the slightest and most demure of men. The music disc is less gratifying, though. It begins with several lovely acoustic tunes, than quickly shifts into a slick, fusion-y "pop" mode which holds less appeal for folks like me. Still, as an overview of his career and musical philosophy, this is a perfect introduction to Maal and his brand of Senegalese music.

4 out of 5 stars Absolutely fantastic introduction........2005-09-21

If you are not familiar with Baaba Maal, this is a great introduction. Likewise for moderate fans. The CD presents a decent selection of songs from over his career. The DVD includes a 40 minute documentary that starts with Baaba Maal in his hometown, an intimate look at his home and family. It also shows many bits of live performances, from huge festival appearances to small shows in African villages. Also featured are 3 performances from the Live at Royal Albert Hall concert.
Overall, a fine collection for newbies and fanatics alike!
Deep River
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Oil and Water...
  • a little too wobbly for me
  • A replacement for Robert Shaw
  • The Best Recording by One of our Finest Choral Ensembles
  • Wonderful Ensemble
Deep River
Adam Reinwald , Alan Dunbar , Kelvin Chan , Timothy Takach , Harry T. (Henry) Burleigh , William Levi Dawson , Jester Hairston , John W. II Work , Albert Jordan , Brad Erbes , Brian Arreola , Michael Hanawalt , Peter Zvanovec , and Cantus Male Ensemble
Manufacturer: Cantus
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | International | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
ClassicalClassical | Indie Music | Stores | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Let Your Voice Be Heard
  2. ...Against the Dying of the Light
  3. The Spirituals Of William L. Dawson (#2159)
  4. Comfort & Joy: Volume Two
  5. Comfort and Joy: Volume One

ASIN: B0000V8G1O
Release Date: 2003-10-01

Tracks:

  1. Ezekiel Saw the Wheel: Harry T. Burleigh
  2. Heaven, Heaven: Harry T. Burleigh
  3. Poor Man Lazrus: Jester Hairston
  4. King Jesus Is A-Listening: William Dawson
  5. In His Care-O: William Dawson
  6. This Ol' Hammer: John W. Work III
  7. Great God A'mighty: Jester Hairston
  8. Were You There?: Harry T. Burleigh
  9. There is a Balm in Gilead: William Dawson
  10. Deep River: Harry T. Burleigh
  11. Swing Low, Sweet Chariot: William Dawson
  12. My Lord, What a Morning: Harry T. Burleigh
  13. Steal Away: William Dawson
  14. Soon ah-Will Be Done: William Dawson
  15. Ain't a That Good News: William Dawson
  16. Ev'ry Time I Feel The Spirit: William Dawson
  17. In That Great Getting' Up Morning: Jester Hairston

Album Description

Cantus proudly announces the release of "Deep River," a treasury of African-American Spirituals. The Spiritual represents the musical melting pot of America like no other type of song by at once revealing its African roots while reflecting the American experience with music that speaks of both hardship and hope. The album features some of the most beloved American folk songs such as "Ezekiel Saw the Wheel", "Were You There", "Swing Low Sweet Chariot" and "Soon-ah Will Be Done." "Deep River" also delves into the roots of American roots music by exclusively featuring music by the preeminent first and second generation African-American composers - Harry T. Burleigh, William Dawson, John W. Work and Jester Hairston - in both well known and long forgotten arrangements of these immortal songs. Recorded by Stereophile Magazine editor John Atkinson in 24 bit sound, "Deep River" is a treat for the ears and a balm for the soul.

Customer Reviews:

3 out of 5 stars Oil and Water..........2005-10-05

Don't Get me wrong... Cantus is one of the finest male chamber choirs around right now. They do marvelous work and cover a wide variety. Unfortunately, spirituals are not exactly Cantus's strongest suit. The biggest hindrance to this recording is that Cantus does not effectively capture the "spirit" of a spiritual. The music almost sounds funny because the spirituals are sung with very traditional, very trained classical voices. I love hearing people sing who were trained very meticulously to sing well, but I don't want to hear someone sing "Ezekiel Saw de Wheel" like Pavoratti. It sounds really funny and doen't capture the character of the music.
Another issue that I have with this recording (and most of Cantus's other recordings at that) is that it was recorded so softly. I don't like to have to feel like I am cranking my speakers to hear the music effectively. Being an active listener, I like to listen to music loud just because I can hear more layers when its loud. The low recording volume on the CD really hinders the active listening experience, leaving the CD to lend itself to the purpose of background music and passive listening.
Also, the first 5 arrangements on the disc are fairly bland. They are lack variety and musicality. Only until "Great God Almighty" comes around does the listener truly become exposed to really good choral writing. Other standing out arrangements are "Where You There?" which is absolutely moving, "There Is A Balm In Gilead" which is very well written, "Deep River" which is so tranquil and relaxing, and "Soon Ah Will Be Done" and "In His Care-O" are great bouncy arrangements.
Essentially, Cantus and Spirituals are just oil and water: they don't mix so well. Aside from a hand full of bland arrangements and a very low mixing job the CD only has one real hindrance of a problem: Cantus doesn't make the distinction between Spirituals and Brahms.

3 out of 5 stars a little too wobbly for me.......2005-03-03

I am familiar with this group and their origins with the world famous St. Olaf Choir of Northfield, MN. While the singers are obviously talented, I felt like I was listening to 11 "solo" singers, rather than a tight ensemble. Way too much individual vibrato even considering the free-flowing genre of the music. I don't want them to be as "tight" as San Francisco's "Chanticleer", but holy smoke, there has got to be something in the middle. Maybe an association with Dale Warland would help, because they obviously have great potential.

5 out of 5 stars A replacement for Robert Shaw.......2004-12-03

Many years ago I had a vinyl record by the Robert Shaw Chorale the title of which was "Deep River." I've been waiting for it to be reissued on cd and have purchased many recordings of negro spirituals on cd hoping to find one where the performance could be compared favorably with the Robert Shaw recording. All of the tries were busts until I found this one. Wow!!! This is a super recoridng of those spirituals. The only thing it lacks is the female voices but thi group of males needs to make no apologies. I love this cd.

5 out of 5 stars The Best Recording by One of our Finest Choral Ensembles.......2004-10-24

"Take this Hammer,' "Steal Away," and "My Lord What a Morning" are just three of the acappella treasures recorded in a warm, natural accoustic by these nine superb singers from Minnesota. The arrangements they've chosen are as complex and moving as their source lyrics and melodies, and the the 24-bit recording by John Atkinson is as good as you get.

It's not easy to make spirituals sound fresh, dynamic and viscerally affecting. But that's exactly what Cantus has done. This is choral singing of the highest order recorded by a master of recorded sound.

I do hope Cantus continues to record on this or another independent label. A big music conglomerate would just glitz it up.

These young men have accomplished so many splendid things on their own over the past nine years, and this release is their best by far.



5 out of 5 stars Wonderful Ensemble.......2004-04-15

I bought "let Your Voice Be Heard" some time ago and really loved the interpretations, the virtuosity of the singing and the clarity of the recording. I'm a Stereophile subscriber and read the articles by Atkinson regarding the recording sessions - they take great care to do a good job and it shows.

This CD is compelling, if you like choral music you will love this disc. Listen to it a few times and you will go away singing.

There are a couple of spirituals on this disc that are also on "Let your voice..." but in different arrangements.
Looking There
Average customer rating: Not rated
    Looking There
    Kaïssa
    Manufacturer: Makai Records
    ProductGroup: Music
    Binding: Audio CD

    GeneralGeneral | Africa | International | Styles | Music
    GeneralGeneral | International | Styles | Music
    ASIN: B000CA2O3Y
    Release Date: 2005-04-12

    Tracks:

    1. Essimo
    2. Senga
    3. Eyoum
    4. O Si Keka
    5. Joy
    6. Sangwam
    7. Big Brother
    8. Mumi
    9. Ombwa Te
    10. To Ndje
    11. Alea So
    Voices of Southern Africa
    Average customer rating: Not rated
      Voices of Southern Africa
      Insingizi
      Manufacturer: Arc Music
      ProductGroup: Music
      Binding: Audio CD

      GeneralGeneral | Africa | International | Styles | Music
      GeneralGeneral | International | Styles | Music
      ASIN: B0002BO152
      Release Date: 2004-06-22

      Tracks:

      1. Ingoma
      2. Amasango
      3. Ibele Lendlela
      4. Jerusalem
      5. Isqoqodo
      6. Nanziwe
      7. Ngizobambelela
      8. Isiqholo
      9. Mama
      10. Ungangidluli Jesu
      11. Yint'enjani
      12. Uthando Lukajesu
      13. Siyabonga
      14. Uzoyidela
      15. Ko Bulawayo
      16. Vinqo
      17. Mbonqane Groove
      Tswana and Sotho Voices - Botswana, South Africa, Lesotho 1951, '57, '59
      Average customer rating: Not rated
        Tswana and Sotho Voices - Botswana, South Africa, Lesotho 1951, '57, '59
        Various Artists
        Manufacturer: Sharp Wood Records
        ProductGroup: Music
        Binding: Audio CD

        GeneralGeneral | Africa | International | Styles | Music
        GeneralGeneral | International | Styles | Music
        AfricaAfrica | Compilations | International | Styles | Music
        GeneralGeneral | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music
        ASIN: B000065CW9
        Release Date: 2002-04-16

        Tracks:

        1. A Re Eng - Tswana Ngwaketse
        2. Selepe Ga Se A Ja Mosu - Tswana Ngwaketse
        3. Tshetlha Di Kae - Tswana Ngwaketse
        4. Maomosa Re Kaeleng - Tswana Ngwaketse
        5. Re Tswa Kwa Tlhabane - Tswana Ngwaketse
        6. Serago Ko Gae Ngwana Mmaphokoje - Rolong
        7. Ko Gae, Ko Gae - Rolong
        8. Majone - Lete
        9. Nkwe E Jele Rantshilane - Lete
        10. Pulana Yoo Rara Bule - Lete
        11. Ngana Wa Lela - Tlharo
        12. Eh Pula Aene A Le Mogogo - Hurutshe
        13. Pula - Hurutshe
        14. Ausi - Hurutshe
        15. Marimbo - Hurutshe
        16. Marola Bila Kile - Hurutshe
        17. Waya Waya Le Makalatshane - Kgatla
        18. Ga Re A Nwa Ka Nkgwana Pele - Kgatla
        19. Khajoane - Sotho
        20. Makhoroane - Sotho
        21. Monga Kobo - Sotho
        22. Hee Ke Bale - Sotho
        23. Oa Mona Letsie - Sotho
        24. Litsoanya - Sotho
        Holding Up Half the Sky: Voices of African Women
        Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
        • Gorgeous!
        Holding Up Half the Sky: Voices of African Women
        Various Artists
        Manufacturer: Shanachie
        ProductGroup: Music
        Binding: Audio CD

        GeneralGeneral | Africa | International | Styles | Music
        GeneralGeneral | International | Styles | Music
        AfricaAfrica | Compilations | International | Styles | Music
        GeneralGeneral | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music
        AfricaAfrica | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music
        Similar Items:
        1. Putumayo Presents: Women of Africa

        ASIN: B000000E3U
        Release Date: 1997-03-18

        Tracks:

        1. Amabhongo - The Mahotella Queens
        2. Batonga - Angelique Kidjo
        3. Souma Sagnone - Kine Lam
        4. Kanawa - Aicha Kone
        5. Ndindereri - Stella Chiswese
        6. Faux Pas - M'BILIA BEL
        7. Gomba - Ami Koita
        8. Ya Habibi - Malouma Mint Miadeh
        9. Ngewundini - Miriam Makeba
        10. Orere Elegjigbo - The Lijadu Sisters
        11. Sibure Nambo - Malika
        12. Tshibola - Tshala Muana
        13. Yelew Wekesa - Netsanet Mellesse
        14. Hapo Zamani - Dorothy Masuka

        Customer Reviews:

        5 out of 5 stars Gorgeous!.......2002-06-07

        This is a wonderful CD. I listen to it frequently at work. The artists are all African women from various parts of the continent and the range in their style and music reflects the vast differences between the regions. This album is very well put together. If you want an introduction to African musicians or just want to listen to beautiful and inspiring music, this CD is a great place to start.

        International Music:

        1. Afrique En Or, Vol. 1
        2. Au Bol D'Or des Monedieres [Import]
        3. Baila Baila
        4. Best of the Brothers Cazimero
        5. Beti [Import]
        6. Burkina Faso: Lobi Country
        7. Caribbean Party Rhythms, Vol. 5
        8. Carussello Italiano [Import]
        9. Cesaria
        10. Chante Brassens Et Brel [Import]

        International Music

        International Music