A Truly Fine Collection
Colin Burgess | Sydney, AUSTRALIA | 05/09/2005
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This newly-released CD features many of the original members of the much-loved New Christy Minstrels, before they drifted off into other careers or musical endeavours. It was also at this time that the NCM were undergoing a metamorphisis in style and content, so to many loyal fans of this wonderful folk ensemble this album represents something of a bookmark in the long and loved history of the group. Many of the original ensemble have recently re-formed under their first and best leader, singer/songwriter Randy Sparks, to the applause of rapturous crowds at sell-out concerts across the country in a limited number of appearances. Happily, with the infusion of some new members, they retain that incredible talent and harmony which first brought them to notice with such megahits as "Green Green" and "Today," and this CD is filled with many of the greatest hits of that era, played and sung in the NCM's own inimitable style. There is beauty in these songs, there is passion and loveliness and fun and magic throughout, but most of all there is the unforgettable harmony and talent of the greatest folk ensemble ever assembled, to be enjoyed yet again in this fine classic album. The bonus songs on this album are delightful, and there are many intriguing unreleased songs such as "Jim 'N' I, Him 'N' I, Flying in the Gemini" which are happy reminders of an incredible era in rock and folk music. You are sure to be entranced by this album, just as I was when I first heard it all those years ago. Thanks to whoever is reponsible for releasing all these amazing New Christy Minstrel albums on CD; each of them is a classic, and a treasure."