The Japanese are very lucky to have this CD.
Callie | Portland, OR United States | 06/26/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"For more than ten years Sissel has dazzled Norway with her crystal clear, angelic voice. As far as I know, the only other countries that release her music are England and Japan(meaning America only has the [pricey] imports). If you can't afford all of her albums, you might as well get this one. The list of tracks on Amazon here is a little confusing, as it lists the sixteen best hits of Sissel, but not the two bonus tracks this Japanese edition holds. The first two songs are "Summer Snow" and "Seven Angels". Two beautiful songs from a Japanese movie Sissel recently sang in. Both of these songs have soothing panpipe music, poetic lyrics, as well as Sissel's serenade(she does very well in the high notes). The other tracks come from her albums, many of the songs are religious related and/or traditional Norwegian songs. Most of the songs come from her album "Innerst I Sjelen"(Deep Within My Soul). It provides a good sample of her folk influence, but I wish it had more songs from her first three albums, all of which are very hard to get a hold of(I had to wait four weeks to get Sissel's first album through the internet). Before I made the mistake of saying no songs from "Glade Jul" were used, but actully, track 3 is from "Glade Jul", so my mistake! I still think more songs from her earlier albums should have veen used(where is her duet with Placido Domingo?). This album is still very lovely and enjoyable. It provides a good sample of singing in both Norwegian and English. One very enjoyable track is the remake of the Beatles' "Here, There, And Everywhere". I also liked the concert versions of "My Tribute" and "Amazing Grace". These songs are a very good example of her gospel style. I recommend though, giving "Prince Igor" a skip. Even though Sissel sang an opera piece with a very beautiful soprano, most of that song was Warren G's rap, not suitable for a folk/gospel/pop star. But then there is the very very haunting "An Raibh Tu Ag An Gcarraig?", a traditional Gaelic song that Sissel sang with the Chieftains on "Long Journey Home" soundtrack. This song is a must for Sissel fans. Of course there also is the hit single, "Fire In Your Heart", even though it doesn't include Placido Domingo. Well, if you just had to get one Sissel album or have never heard any of her music before, get this album. Sissel's voice, which has often been argued to be the most beautiful, perfect, and best voice in the whole world, will surely leave you breathless."
GREAT COLLECTION OF NORWEIGIAN WORK PLUS EXTRAS
W. Budris | Rosedale, NY | 03/26/2004
(5 out of 5 stars)
"One of the other titles I purchased while exploring Sissel's work. This Best Of represents many songs of her Norweigian repetoire. They have an Enya and folk feel and are pleasantly presented. Even if you don't know the language, they are a joy to listen to. Unique to this CD are the first two tracks, which were originally only on a CD single. Both feature panflutist, Georghe Zamfir, and similar to his previous work with the great Nana Mouskouri on "The Lonely Shepherd", collaborating with Sissel creates magic on both tracks featured. There are a couple of English songs included from pre-US albums that are also excellent. Though the Japanese import is a bit pricey, it would be worth it for an overall taste, especially for the Sissel fan who wants to collect all her material."
Voice from Heaven
Y2 | Japan | 03/18/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Listen this with your family and best friends. Listen at home, car and camping. Listen when you are tired. Her voice will make you feel freedom and happiness."
Track Listings (16) - Disc #1