Search - Roger Waters :: Roger Waters: Ça Ira (There Is Hope)

Gift to French Revolutionaries, Not Composers

Nicholas Stark | Philadelphia | 07/04/2009

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Being a historian primarily interested in Napoleonic and French Revolutionary history as well as a fan of musicals and operas, I purchased this CD by the famous Roger Water, unsure of what to expect. The title derives from a popular revolutionary song by the same name, so I was unsure as to whether the whole opera would be a simple duplicate of revolutionary music or if it would be a whole new creation.



The answer is found in between. The opera is not a replica of old revolutionary songs, although the tunes of "Ca Ira" and "La Marseillaise" can be found within. However, the music itself is also not revolutionary, in the sense that it is not a new phenomenon in the field. It sounds like a classic opera, with simply a new topic.



Nevertheless, do not let that be discouraging. The music is still entertaining, and the subject is certainly under-represented in modern culture. In addition, the tunes have that special "Roger Waters" touch, with his style clearly present in songs such as "To Take Your Hat Off." The result is an interesting product that I would recommend to people interested in the French Revolution, classic opera, or Roger Waters. If you want music that will change the face of opera as we know it, this is not it, but if your concern is simply to be entertained, this piece is a good choice. I know I did not regret the purchase!"

Waters deserve the 5 stars

W. Noshie | Beirut, Lebanon | 03/02/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I have read some mixed reviews here.

If you are an old time fan of Roger Waters and still is (you must be in your 50's) then give this CD a good listen; Nothing like Water's Pink Floyd's previous work; Opera instead.

I am no Opera big fan, but Waters name on this CD combined with the tunes; makes it really a very good album well worth buying.

Recommended for all of those old fans, who wish to follow the path of Roger Waters and where it is leading.

"