Review / Comments ::
Now and then I come across an album that I simply cannot listen to enough.
In 2001, the local BMG label representative, who was well aware of my love for any kind of medieval music, both sacred and secular, gave me a copy of Thomas Otten's "Close to Silence". On the way home, I tossed it in the CD player and actually had to pull over to the side of the road, I was so captivated by Otten's voice. There are very few true adult counter-tenors. Otten is one. Even though his range is natural, he spent ten years training his gift before teaming up with composer Frederick Momont to produce this one-of-a-kind collection of vocal poetry. With songs ranging from Gregorian chant to contemporary, this is an album that will appeal to anyone who can appreciate the uniqueness of Otten's voice, genuine and unaffected in its beauty.
The first track, Qualitati Umane, is perhaps the most perfect two minutes of vocalization that I've ever encountered. The brevity adds to its charm, yet I would gladly listen to 30 minutes of just this one selection. Once Otten has enchanted the listener, he continues to weave a mosaic of voice and backing instruments that refuses to let go of the audience. Defying and melding categories such as New Age, Classical, and World music, Otten never once fails to engage our emotions and stir our hearts. Divigi Tu can bring you to tears. Contemplative yet wistful, reflection music. Close to Silence is pure magic. The harp is a perfect compliment to Thomas' precise tone. A Quiet Moment features Momont on piano, the counter to Otten's tenor.
I don't believe you can listen to this entire album without once feeling penetrated to your core, without once feeling a shiver of joy down your spine. This is the music I want played at my funeral.
Related Web Links ::
Official Site: http://www.insolites.com/ 
Available At ::
Amazon.com (CD)
iTunes Music Store (Download)
Album Copyright Information ::
Published 1999 Insolites
© 1999 Virgin France S.A. Under exclusive
license to
OmTown Music ®, a division of Higher Octave Music, Inc. 2003
Review Date ::
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