 |
Free Music Notes for Kate RoyalFree Music Review: A voice that's sure to catch on Hit: 5 Stars
The two-star grouch who finds Kate Royal inadequate compared to a great singer like Victoria de los Angeles misses the boat -- as I did the first time I heard her debut Cd. If you listen technically, royal isn't completely secure, and she doesn't give the impression of a fully formed artist. But why should she? What counts at this early stage are certain qualities that mark a rising star: the voice has luster and range, the timbre is appealingly feminine, and emotional connection with the listener is immediate. In those regards, Royal reminds me of the young Te Kanawa and Renee Fleming.
Will she mature into a great singer? Even the most dedicated PR flak can't predict. but Royal's second release, "Midsummer Night," displays a leap in artistry and range that promises much, and it casts this first album in the best light. There are many ravishing moments here, and when you think how long the British have waited for a real international diva, I hope Ms. Royal makes it all the way.
Free Music Review: Gorgeous Hit: 5 Stars
The European press, not least the British, has lavished high praise on Kate Royal's first recital disc. Deservedly so. I would have given this CD four and a half stars, if I hadn't heard Kate Royal live last week. I was lucky enough to see her as a stunning Ilia in Mozart's Idomeneo (with period ensemble Europa Galante) here in Amsterdam. What a revelation! Kate Royal has a fantastic, aristocratically rich and warm voice, full of emotion, and an absolutely magnetic stage presence. Her duet aria with Ian Bostridge didn't fail to bring me to tears. After this superb concert, I had no other choice than to buy this CD. It contains a broad selection of arias and songs from various composers (no Mozart, unfortunately); a somewhat mixed bag perhaps, but an ideal programme for Royal to display her gorgeous voice. Strongly recommended. Voices of this calibre don't come along too often. I only can hope she will record those Idomeneo arias very soon...
Free Music Review: Highly recommended; a refreshing album Hit: 5 Stars
Unlike a lot of "debut" albums, this is refreshing in that it's not comprised of the same old, same old standards that every soprano seems to fall back on when doing this sort of introductory kind of recital. You have to listen and it's a joy. I bought this a few weeks ago and am still discovering the joys of this CD. There are a few familiar pieces, but the rest is not done to death. It's an excellent recording and the orchestra and the arrangements are terrific. I have no complaint and look forward to her next album. I've recommended this CD to several people already.
Free Music Review: Light, lyrical and lovely! Hit: 5 Stars
Kate Royal, a superb new sound on the operatic scene, grew up surrounded by pop music but luckily her voice was recognized as destined for other genres. In this collection of opera, concert works and songs from different traditions there a freshness and feeling that tells you they are important to the singer. I look forward to following the career of this wonderful new artist as she matures and brings new perspectives to old treasures and introduces us to daring new works.
Free Music Review: If you missed Valentine's Day Hit: 5 Stars
Remember when you first heard Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Heart's Club Band? It was an amazing artistic whole, each piece contributing to the effect in a way new to me. Well, Kate Royal has done that with this recording. It is about love, of course, but it is so much more than the sum of its parts. Royal has a beautiful voice; big, a little dark, but just as important, she makes intelligent choices. This cd is a box of Godiva chocolates. Watch out.
More Free Music Notes: 1 2
|
 |
|
|
|