It might be nice to hear something other than merely songs from the American Songbook, but one can’t fault an ensemble for doing pretty much perfectly what they set out to do. And what proceedings they are – The King’s Singers have a genial presence on stage and, as they say themselves, perfect articulation and tone. The repertoire begins with ‘The best is yet to come’, followed by ‘I won’t dance’ and ‘When I fall in love.’ Then, ‘Beyond the sea’ ‘Cry me a river’ and ‘Bewitched, bothered and bewildered’ with ‘Cheek to Cheek’ ‘My funny Valentine’ and ‘The Lady is a Tramp’ to finish proceedings. One has very fond memories of Cole Porter being put to ironic use in Barrie Kosky’s wonderful production of ‘Poppea’ four years ago, but it is nice to hear a more earnest version here.Īlexander L’Estrange is the exclusive arranger for the second half, with his hand being all over the new album that the King’s Singers are spruiking. Traditional American Spirtuals came next, with ‘Stand still, Jordan’ ‘Steal away’ ‘Down to the river to pray’ ‘Swing low, sweet chariot’ and ‘Little David, play on your harp.’ Then one of this critic’s favourites – Cole Porter – closes the first half with renditions of his songs ‘It’s de-lovely’ ‘Begin the Beguine’ ‘Night and Day’ ‘I’ve got you under my skin’ and ‘Let’s misbehave’ all arranged by Alexander L’Estrange. It is enough to heighten the variety as well. We begin with four pieces celebrating Harold Arlen and George Gershwin: ‘Get Happy’ ‘I’ve got the world on a string’ ‘Love is here to stay’ and ‘Oh! I can’t sit down.’ (It should be noted that for all but two pieces the six men are standing – only retreating to six identical stools at the back of the stage twice.) Between each of these songs, and all of the following, the lighting conditions in the Hall often change dramatically – sometimes leaving the audience momentarily in the dark. Humour can be very important in such concerts as these – where there are many short works one after the other – as a certain weariness can sometimes overtake the audience. One of them, for instance, lets the audience know that an Englishman demonstrates his state of relaxation by unbuttoning his suit. They’re also rather dapper in their tailored suits, with a wry and dry sense of English humour that comes out when they introduce each triplet of songs. The King’s Singers are an utter pleasure to listen to.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |