Intriguing piano compositions with dynamic accompaniment
Total time: 35:34 - release date: 12/17/2010
In
"The Moon of Wintertime," Lydia McCauley offers a fresh interpretation of some
very old Christmas pieces, writes an original song, and makes her debut on the
Appalachian Dulcimer.
Full of mirth and merriment, this album can be enjoyed during the Christmas
season and quite possibly throughout the year. "The Moon of Wintertime" bears a
freshness of spirit for the winter season. It's a wonderful addition to winter
holiday collections, expanding the usual Christmas faire into pieces from
medieval Italy, France, Scotland and England. "Bring Us In Good Ale" includes
vocals by The Blessed Lady's Pub Chorus and ends with peals of laughter.
The cover art and text portray its spiritual and traditional origins and in
many ways add to the overall experience. The tunes and songs here are derived
from many sources and times and yet they combine old and new compositions. The
title track has music from France, lyrics dating from around 1643 with an
English translation in 1926 and an adaptation in 2002 by McCauley.
From this mixture she has produced lyrical magic that will uplift the
spirits. On "Gifts of the Magi," she takes full control, writing and arranging.
The result is a 21st century song that would not have raised eyebrows in
medieval courts. "Good King Wenceslas" and the former track make this an ideal
Christmas album if one is looking for traditional with a twist, but this is an
all-year-round album so don't restrict your enjoyment to two weeks a year.
On hearing McCauley sing this song so sadly seen only as a carol, you must
recognise it as a classic of good composition. The music may date from 1582 but
this is 2003 sound."Childgrove" and "Ideo Gloria" are two exceptional
instrumental tracks that will haunt your mind and transport you back in time to
a glorious age of madrigal and courtly love. McCauley takes an Appalachian song,
"Down in Yon Forest," and gives it an interpretation that is probably closer to
the original tune that traveled to the U.S. There is a very special bonus on
this track. McCauley sings her version of the song, which is followed
immediately by an arrangement by Brian Cunningham. This shows how an old song
can be interpreted to give two or more distinct songs. Listen only to this track
and marvel. The Moon of Wintertime by Lydia McCauley