A PURE, BEAUTIFUL VOICE
Cheryl H. Long | 02/29/2008
(4 out of 5 stars)
"Generally, I don't like buying CDs unless I've had a chance to preview them first -- something I was unable to do through Amazon.com on this one. However, I was able to preview some tracks on his website, and bought this album based on that.
I have found this to be a most delightful album. Joseph's voice -- although not classically trained and lacking a vibrato -- is pure, angelic and crystal clear, his diction is impeccable and he remains on pitch throughout the album. The album itself has a somewhat Celtic and spiritual flavor to it. I especially enjoyed his plaintive renditon of "Where Is Love," as well as "Walking in the Air" and "Candlelight Carol." The bonus track, "Sally Gardens," was my favorite and nearly sent chills up and down my spine!
My only concern is if he does not develop a vibrato by the time his voice changes. While a straight voice sounds angelic on a boy soprano, it would sound flat on a mature voice. However, I believe that, with the proper training, Joseph McManners has quite a future ahead of him. In the meantime, enjoy the purity and innocence of this album!
"
Joseph McManners - a "fantastic" boy singer
Rocco Paperiello | Yellowstone National Park | 04/09/2010
(5 out of 5 stars)
"First, please read M. Hoffman's 3 star review. Much of what he states is true, although somewhat overstated. However, what Hoffman sees as a negative, I see as a positive. I too like a "pure boy soprano" and I too have been in a choir. However, sometimes I prefer to listen to the unmistakable tone of a BOY'S voice -- especially one as fantastic and well enunciated as this one. (Yes, I think understanding the singer's words a plus). And do not be mislead. Sure there are moments when a well trained singer can see that McManners is not especially "soprano trained." But who cares? His voice is wonderful, his tone is clear and right on, and I take great delight in his singing. (I do not need to be listening to voices like those of Connor Burrowes, or Anthoney Way all the time). McManners' voice is more like that of Paul Dutton. (And sometimes I'd rather be listening to a simple arrangement of a beautiful boy's voice rather than the 'mega' arrangements like those of Boys Air Choir, or Liberia. Heck, I even enjoy the CD 'Dreamland' and the wonderful voice of Michael Junior [Michael Verschuere]).
I took a chance on this CD after reading the 5 star reviews and am very glad that I did."
Track Listings (14) - Disc #1