Search - Various Artists :: 50 Most Loved Hymns

HELEN T. (A-PLUS-SWAP-99) from SHARON, MA
Reviewed on 10/19/2006...

NEW, SEALED CASE.

Wonderful hymns, beautifully arranged

Dr. Emil "Tom" Shuffhausen | Central Gulf Coast | 08/23/2005

(4 out of 5 stars)

"In the past five years, there has been a renaissance of interest in some of the old, classical hymns of Christendom, thanks to recent releases by more contempary Christian music "stars." This is a positive trend, as it would be tragic for these great and powerful songs, with their majestic melodies and timeless truths, to be somehow lost in a modernistic tide of trendiness and disposable ditties.



This particular 2-disc collection is a fine and reliable collection of some of the best loved hymns of the ages. The orchestration and choral arrangements are impeccably done, and remain faithful to traditions.



This adherance to tradition will likely make it more popular among those born prior to the "baby boom", as well as to fans of classical music. In other words, this collection, as fine as it is, may not be the best vehicle to introduce the younger generation to the wonder and richness of hymns (making exceptions, of course, for young people who love classical music or have exceptional cultural maturity and intellectual curiosity).



There is nothing to quibble about when it comes to the song selections, which offer surprising variety, from ancient Celtic classics to American spirituals. It's a wonderful overview of some of the most powerful songs ever composed. Best of all, the truth of the lyrics still shine through, even (in some cases) centuries after they were written.



Beautifully done!"

Had Potential

H. Veitch | Sydney, Australia | 11/09/2006

(2 out of 5 stars)

"The music on this CD sounds fantastic, but BE AWARE that they are only short segments of the hymns. For example, I specifically bought the CD for "Be Thou My Vision", which is actually only a short instrumental, and "Crown Him With Many Crowns", which only had one verse. Not good for a rousing sing-along while you do the dishes!"