 |  | This news just in--Helene Dallaire is from another planet! Seriously, this woman has an unearthly voice--haunting and innocent, but charmingly grounded. Just how is that possible? Her vocals are breathy and pure all at once. "Noel Renaissance" is definitely a holiday CD that is out of the ordinary.
Like Dallaire's voice, the track selections are fascinating and unique. "Noel Renaissance" presents 15 traditional French Christmas folk songs from the 15th through 17th centuries. The only familiar carols are "Noel Nouvelet," "God Rest Ye Merry Gentleman," "Greensleeves," and "Pick Up Your Tambourine" (otherwise known as "Pat-a-Pan"); the rest are delightful discoveries. The song titles are somewhat humorous, or at least ironic--one number, "The Girl With the Limp" is followed by "My Leg Hurts" (I'm thinking these folk stories may be related ). Because these tunes are relatively obscure, this CD has value long after the holidays have passed.
For the most part, Dallaire sings these numbers in their original dialects, and she does not always sing words. On occasion (in "God Rest Ye Merry Gentleman," for example), Dallaire sings lilting tones instead of lyrics. The instrumental accompaniment is absolutely perfect. Dallaire's delicate vocals are framed by the guitar, cello, and some light percussion.
The greatest hits on this album? One has to be the opening cut, "Noel Nouvelet." It is one of my all-time favorite carols, and Dallaire's fragile interpretation is just right. "Voici la Noel" is also fantastic--moody, introspective, and beautiful.
"Noel Renaissance" is a superb album for those who typically shun holiday glitz in favor of something more authentic and unusual. Enjoy!
--Carol Swanson |
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