The Visit
click the image to get it in cd-cover size
| Release Date: |
November 30, 1990 |
| Label: |
Warner Brothers |
| Rating: |
5.0 |
Description: Mixing a variety of styles with a Celtic base, this was McKennitt's breakthrough album and remains one of her most musically interesting. "All Souls Night" begins the album, with dance-like rhythms and McKennitt's wonderful voice singing about the Celtic New Year. Other features include a musical setting of Tennyson's "Lady of Shalott", which, while not as sophisticated as Noyes' "The Highwayman" on
The Book of Secrets, is an enchanting listen. There's also an interesting rendition of "Greensleeves" and the Spanish-flavored "Tango to Evora", as well as the haunting "Courtyard Lullaby" and the wistful "The Old Ways". A setting of words from Shakespeare's
Cymbeline closes the album, which focuses thematically on life, death, and the borders between them.
--Genevieve Williams
Tracklist of The Visit
Reviews:
A masterpiece
This is Loreena McKennit's best album, in my opinion. There isn't a weak song on here! My favourite songs are All Soul's Night, Bonny Portmore & The Lady of Shalott. Loreena's voice is gorgeous and the production is simply amazing. One of the best albums in my collection!
Super version of Lord Alfred Tennyson's "Lady of Shalott"
I remember years ago, going into a music store and listening to the featured artist. I put the headphones on and was instantly transported to Camelot, and a long poem called "The Lady of Shalott". I was mesmerized! How can a lady's voice be so clear, enchanting, and brimming with a storyteller's intensity and passion? So began my fascination with the historically and culturally diverse music world of Loreena McKennitt. While this remains my favorite track, there are other noteworthy songs, even if her newest CD, "The Book of Secrets" is a much more richer and theme-oriented collection. "Bonnie Portmore" has a melancholy tinge that has great charm, especially with the haunting drone of the Ueillean Pipes. I also enjoyed "Cymbeline", which has that traditional shakespearan flair to it. There is a timeless and rich flavor to her music and you can hear the exquisite artistry and professionalism cascade throughout her work. If you enjoy Loreena's music as much as I do, be sure to check out very her informative and visually appealing website; www.quinlanroad.com.
Thanks For The Intro To Mehdi
I've always enjoyed Lorrena Mckinnett and this album is no exception, but while reading some of the customer recommendations posted on this page I discovered an Group by the name of Mehdi (pronounced meddie). After searching online I found (SoothingMusic.Com) and listened to the samples...
I was instantly blown away by the quality of this music and so I gave it a try and now that I have listened to these CDs several times I really must say that although I'm still a Mckinnett fan I find Mehdi's instrumentals to be a nice addition to her CDs. Instrumental Heaven by Mehdi is just awesome. I have them both in my multi-disc CD player and love the way they compliment each other. I highly recommend that you give this artist a try or atleast just go listen to the samples, I have a feeling you'll be glad you did.