Voices of the Valley -Encore!

28/11/2007

 The Welsh Male Voice Choir tradition is loved and respected the world over and despite the demise of the mining industry in the Welsh Valleys, it is thriving throughout the Principality. One of the best – The Fron Male Voice Choir is celebrating its 60th year and has just released their latest CD.

 

Readers will be pleased to know that the choir have chosen to support Help the Aged fund raising appeal “1 is the saddest number” and as their nominated charity will be making a donation from the sale proceeds of this album and their appearance in Manchester on 17th December 2007.

 

But what about the music? The McCartney/Lennon classic “Yesterday” is given a smooth and blended interpretation on the first track, backed by a small orchestra of keyboards and strings. This sets the mood for the whole album which is chiefly for quiet moments of relaxation by the fire. Greater contrast in this programme would have been welcome and a surprise for the reviewer is that the singing never really thrills and provides the excitement usually expected from Wales. Surely the “Battle Hymn of the Republic! should be sung with more passion and enthusiasm! However, nothing jars the ear on this CD and at least Help the Aged’s appeal is worth supporting.