“It is more than glorious music they offer us; it is our history that would otherwise be forgotten. At a time when passion is so lacking in our lives, these two artists set our hearts on fire! Viva Jamie and Michael!” -Studs Terkel
Called sweeping passionate and razor clear, the music combines the influences of European cabaret (ala Brecht) with the fervor of the American folksong experience of the people’s music, as sung in coffeehouses of the 1960’s.
Created as a folk-cabaret, with input from Spanish Civil War heroes and historians, and sold worldwide, this recording includes 20 stirring songs, sung in 6 languages, that spotlight a powerful period in human history. What distinguishes this CD recording from others is the passion and commitment with which these top-notch performers perform the songs, honoring the stories of the International Brigades and Spain, (many told to them first-hand) and replicating the complex and varied musical styles of the era. Simple translations and program notes by Studs Terkel in a color booklet are included. with Michael Smith, vocals, guitar and Jamie O’Reilly, vocals. With Katrina O’Reilly, vocals, piano, clarinet
Limited release. Buy at CD baby.com https://store.cdbaby.com/cd/msjo2
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Reviews
“A heartfelt, sublime piece of work. Sweeping and passionate.” —Chicago Tribune, Winter 1997
“A smartly professional cabaret trio performed the beloved Spanish Civil War songs of haunting, astonishing beauty.” —Vanity Fair, Oct. 2001
“Every song receives a passionate treatment worthy of the subject, demonstrating powerfully that the music resonates throughout time and space.” —Singout Magazine, Fall 1997
“It is history that would otherwise be forgotten. These two artists set our hearts on fire! Viva Jamie and Michael!” —Studs Terkel, WFMT Radio, 1997
“They reconnoiter the Iberian rhythms with such closely fused harmony and razor clear enunciation as to seem a single voice.” —Chicago Reader, Winter 1997
“A heartfelt, sublime piece of work…Sweeping and passionate” —Chicago Tribune
“they’re not just going through the motions, every song receives a passionate treatment worthy of the subject.” —Singout Magazine