|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
review by Michael Debbage The pioneering label of New Age continues to present various artist concept projects, this time with nuptials in mind. Assembling traditional arrangements and new compositions, this would delight any couple planning such a ceremony. And if they cannot afford the luxury to engage a string quartet for their wedding, but fear the hiss of monolog tapes on the church's sound system, then look no further. Windham Hill has neatly arranged a well-produced digital recording to present a more viable and affordable alternative. Though cross-sections of label mates bring these interpretations to life, the disc does focus on Paul McCandless who is featured on four tracks scattered throughout the album. His arrangements highlight him on both the oboe and English horn with all of his selections centered on the traditional aspect of the project. The more obvious selections would be J.S. Bach's "Arioso" that opens the album and "Ava Maria" featured later. Whether on the oboe or horn, Mc Candless is right home with either. Other traditional moments include the "Canon" with this variation (no pun intended) featuring James Galway on the flute accompanied by the Munich Radio Orchestra. The less traditional aspect is best represented by original compositions from George Winston and Jim Brickman. Winston presents us with the simple but poignant "Loreta And Desiree's Bouquet Part 1." This is one of Winston's more instantly memorable melodies and may be worth the price of admission on it's own. Jim Brickman's "If You Believe" is equal to the task and sits nicely alongside Winston's composition. Meanwhile, the founder of Windham Hill, Will Ackerman, even makes an appearance with the stark "Processional" featuring Ackerman and his guitar - nothing more, nothing less. The project does well to stay away from the most traditional of all "The Bridal March." Such an exclusion makes this a great opportunity to translate into mood music even if you are not in the chaos of engagement and/or wedding plans. But those of you that are and have already budgeted for your own string quartet, look for this disc anyway; it might take the edge off. |
|
