Magic
John Patterson | New Hampshire | 01/16/2000
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Maybe you are just a lucky kid whose parent or doting relative made this a gift to you and thereby included you in the gathering of spellbound children around the skirts of the Norwegian grandmother spinning her tales. Perhaps you are a grown-up who simply delights in the display of real vocal talent. If you are really fortunate, you have a little of the wonder of both. In any case, this CD will not disappoint. Simundson's talented voice enlivens an astonishing range of characters as the grandmother unfolds her stories inspired by Norwegian folklore. By agile modulation of her voice, Simundson is able to keep at least three distinct and believable personalities in the air at once, with nary a bobble. While not always central to the story, the inclusion of snippets of the artist's accomplished singing voice is welcome lagniappe. The target audience is youngsters, but those who are young only at heart will also be drawn into that enraptured circle at "Grandmama's" knee. We hope that Simundson goes to the wellspring of her creativity again and soon!"