WONDERFUL!
This CD remains in my car and is played year-round -- WONDERFUL, goosebump-provoking voices, and very complementary harmonizing and blending. (I've never been a fan of the song, "Somewhere Over the Rainbow," and, despite other reviewers' explanations, I still don't think it belongs in a Christmas collection -- but I HIGHLY recommend this CD in general, as ALL of the songs are performed beautifully)!
Prior to the release of this recording, my all-time favorite version of "Oh Holy Night" was sung by Pavarotti -- but the Il Divo version is also absolutely breathtaking!
This CD was my first exposure to Il Divo (I know -- it seems unbelievable, in light of their popularity), but it has inspired me to purchase more of their CD's (I prefer the songs which they sing in English, since comprehension of the lyrics certainly stirs the emotions to a greater degree -- "Every Time I Look at You" is one of my favorites), and I am now going to order one of their DVD's, so I can actually SEE them perform (I rarely watch TV, so this will be a "first" for me, too). I am also going to order copies of this CD to give to friends next Christmas, and I'm hoping that Il Divo will release more Christmas collections in the future.
I've read the reviews of those who have posted negative comments, accusing the producers and promoters of Il Divo of "crass commercialism," but I am VERY THANKFUL to Simon Cowell, et al, for having brought these VERY TALENTED AND DIGNIFIED GENTLEMEN together -- and for having provided them the opportunity to share their musical gifts with all of us. BRAVO! -- SUCH a breath of fresh air, under the label of "popular music." One can only hope that this trend continues.
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