Search - Judy Collins :: Introducing

Judy Collins, renaissance vocalist....

J. L. Hodges | Tulsa, OK United States | 11/12/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"One of the best reasons to purchase this collection of Collins' music is the inclusion of the Mimi Farina song, "Bread and Roses" which celebrates the need for artistic sustenance as well as that for our flesh. Collins first recorded this song on an album of the same name 30 years ago this year (2006). As far as I know this album has not been released in CD format and used albums sell for around $70. Fortunately the song "Bread and Roses" can be found tucked in with other classic gems from the great years of Collins' career when her voice had begun to resound with passion and power as well as its perfect diction and classic tone.



This collection is really a great overview of her career since it includes work demonstrating her eclectic tastes. Collins would become known as a super interpreter of Leonard Cohen's music confirmed by the inclusion of his "Suzanne". Listeners will hear her ability to dress up the Bob Dylan song "Just Like Tom Thumb Blues", one-time boyfriend Stephen Stills' "So Begins the Task", Stephen Sondheim's "Send in the Clowns" with almost operatic grace.



As well as the traditional "Maid of Constant Sorrow", listeners will sample her early efforts at writing music for herself as in the ebullient "Song for Judith (Open the Door)" and the poignant tribute to her own musician father "My Father."



In each instance she exhibits the miraculous power and range of her voice in its ability to convey passion through an eclectic assortment of styles and genres. DO NOT miss this chance to be spellbound.

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