"Deeply rooted in the ancient polyphony of Byzantine Liturgical Music, this achingly beautiful album reveals how hauntingly lovely the human voice can be. The album offers pieces in various forms and styles from different periods. Please get this beautiful music and then branch out and explore other Eastern European and Middle Eastern vocal music. In far flung places often the only instrument, (and best instrument), was the human voice. Let this be a stepping stone to explore the extraordinary tradition of Syriac, Arabic, Byzantine, Ethiopian, Russian and Eastern European vocal music."
Incredibly beautiful music!
Brant Nelson | Vermont, United States | 09/09/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I believe this is nearly the same recording as the previously released album on Mesa Records entitled "Melody Rhythm and Harmony". The photo is exactly the same anyway, and it was recorded in Trondheim, Norway in March 1993. That album was TWO CDs, however and included 28 songs. I was fortunate enough to see a live concert in Los Angeles several years ago plus attend a lecture by conductor Dora Hristova on this style of music, and both were wonderful! I have never been so in awe of the power of the human voice. No recording could capture how rapturous and haunting these women sound in person, but this CD is as close as you can come. It far outranks the Le Mystere des Voix Bulgares volumes 1 and 2 CDs, since as noted here, those were not recorded terribly well (I believe they were compiled from tapes laid down in the 50s or 60s). So start with this one as the best possible introduction to the Mystery of the Bulgarian Voices."
Astounding Sounds
RComposer | Fla. | 03/18/1999
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Musicians from Eric Clapton to high-brow classical types have hailed this recording as inspirational and groundbreaking. Stunning recording quality, vocal textures and composition. You will not be sorry if you order this great recording! I just hope they do more...."
Beautiful Music !!!
no longer a customer | 01/15/2002
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This recording captures the excitement of a live concert and the dynamic beauty of the female voice. Each voice a finely tuned instrument, each arrangement and composition a refreshing and new approach for the western listener. This sound will pique your classical and folk sensibilities. It is exotic, rich, and pleasurable."