"I am a big fan of yiddish music, especially of the barry sisters. All the songs are good known and traditional but no one could sing them so nice. Clear voices and wonderful arrangement. If you will hear "Tsi Shpait" you will understand how nice is the "forgotten" language... I would advice this cd to all people who like the real music going from heart and soul. Thank you."
A great collection of well done Yiddish hits!
Matthew G. Sherwin | last seen screaming at Amazon customer service | 05/16/2006
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I think people forget that The Barry Sisters were quite the talented duo; and this CD proves it. The songs are beautifully sung and on this CD their voices are rich, smooth and exciting. The musical arrangements are very well done as well.
The CD starts off with the jazz-flavored "Hava Nagila." Only the Barry sisters could do it this good! They both emote so well the excitement and joy of the song that encourages people to dance and enjoy life!
These songs are sung in Yiddish and they represent a selection of songs that Russian Jews brought with them when they came to America. However, most if not all of the songs have a universal appeal which is apparent when the songs are translated into English. The two Barry sisters sing of a love that just isn't going quite right "Ich Hob Dich Zifeel Lieb (I Love You Much Too Much)," the plea of a woman for her man to never forget her because she loves him deeply "Fargess Mich Nit (Forget Me Not)," and the desire to make things right with the song "Ketzele Baroiges (Why Are You Angry)."
The quality of the sound is excellent. Their voices and the music provide a strong performance that leaves you wanting more! This album also has a strong nostalgic quality for Jewish people practically everywhere.
The liner notes are average. There is a brief history of the act including mention of how the two sisters originally billed themselves as The Begelman Sisters until they changed their name to The Barry Sisters. Song credits are not provided; this is probably because most if not all of these songs are so old that we're simply not certain who wrote them!
Overall, I recommend this CD not just for the Jewish community but also for fans of international music. It's also a great starter CD for people who want to get to know the talent of these two ladies. Enjoy! I give this CD 4.5 stars because the liner notes give little information about the two sisters.
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Great Yiddish Jazz
Joshua Koppel | Chicago, IL United States | 01/20/2004
(4 out of 5 stars)
"From the opening track of Havah Nagilla, the listener knows just what they are in for; good jazzy music with a Yiddish twist.Yiddish music used to be quite popular and the Barry Sisters did it right. Simply put, you know the music is good when you can enjoy it without understanding the lyrics. Of course understanding the lyrics just makes it better. There are even some English lyrics on the disc.If you like Jazz, Klezmer or other Jewish music you are sure to love this collection."
A Very Good Time In Yiddish
Joshua Koppel | 12/29/1999
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This album is a lot of fun. I had been listening to new yiddish albums, like Transmigrations by Wolf Krakowski and A Sudenyu of Yiddish Song by Bonnie Abrams -- both of which are excellent but of a somewhat somber, reflective tone -- when I listened to this oldie. I immediately appreciated its high paced, swinging sound, that does, by the way, alternate with more tender moments. Every song is a pure pleasure to listen to. The duets are outstanding and so are the instrumentals. Unfortunately, there are no liner notes for those who like to learn Yiddish while listening."
Excellent collection
Joshua Koppel | 08/05/1999
(4 out of 5 stars)
"An excellent CD with a wonderfull collection of exquisite Jewish folksongs. Barry Sisters are singing their best. You can find a song that will match any mood of yours. Unfortunately, some of their VERY best songs are not included. Fortunately, the double-CD version has them."