Search - Persuasions :: A Capella Dreams

Dreams Come True

D. Sean Brickell | gorgeous Virginia Beach, VA United States | 10/28/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"The Persuasions continue to be the most significent A Cappela group recording today, having firmly established their credentials through the years on some mighty important releases. The recent Grateful Dead and Beatles CDs were brilliant. But this one is closer to home, in more ways than one. We get a greatest hits package of Memphis and Stax-style soul music. My only problem is where do I begin to start the praise? For my money the best singer ever is Otis Redding, who is an untouchable presence. But I honestly feel his power on this version of "Dock of the Bay." Another guy from Memphis who did alright mama, Elvis, has three songs covered magnificently. "In The Ghetto" and "Peace In The Valley" particularly stand equal to the original hit versions. You gotta hear the Tom Jones classic, "She's A Lady" to believe it. "Rainy Night In Georgia" stirs very deep emotions. And -- gimme strength -- "Steal Away" is audio perfection.I hope this will spawn complete CD releases of the Otis Redding and Elvis songbooks. Dear Lord've mercy, the thought alone brings me to my knees!!!"

Beautiful, straight through

11/04/2003

(4 out of 5 stars)

"This is gorgeous stuff--wonderfully sung and wonderfully recorded. I've heard a lot of Chesky releases, and the sound quality here is well above par, even for them--spacious, warm, and intimate, like the guys are singing right in front of you. (Some Chesky recordings, especially the older ones, are a bit too "cavernous" sounding for my taste.) The songs here are well chosen and well sequenced, and the arrangements customarily excellent. If you like a capella pop--or think you might--this is a no-brainer purchase. Invite the guys into your home for a personal recital!"

Epic, Timeless Vocal Artwork

Charles P. Frederick | Cambridge, MA | 06/15/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I got into the Persuasions after hearing the wonderful, wonderful album "Might as Well" (Yes, I am a Dead Head). So I checked out their other releases and thought I'd give this one a spin.



Wow.



This music feels ancient, warm, friendly, and eternal. There's classic folk songs, some with creative arrangements, as well as other good songs you may not have heard before. "Peace in the Valley" brings tears to my eyes almost every time I listen. "Rainy Night in Georgia" is timeless and evocative. "In the Ghetto" is a beautiful song about a sad truth. The version of "When the Saints Go Marching In" is both different, refreshing, and just as moving and inspiring as the classic tune. It's impossible not to sing along! All of these songs grow on you over time, so that you will be able to belt them out by heart on your own.



I say again: This music is ancient, warm, friendly, and eternal. These are good qualities. Buy this--you will never regret it."