From Rags To Riches: 100 Years Of American Song
Nyfos, 2022
9/10
Listen to From Rags To Riches: 100 Years Of American Song
An extremely well thought affair, the New York Festival Of Song label brings together Stephanie Blythe and William Burden’s vocals to Steven Blier’s piano on this live recording that spans art songs, musical theater, jazz and even opera.
“Pineapple Rag” leads the listen with Blier’s warm, intricate keys alongside Blythe’s stunning mezzo-soprano in the very expressive opener, and “My Lady Frog” follows with Burden’s precise tenor alongside the dancing keys as the two deliver much beauty and playfulness.
Further into the listen, “Nickel Under The Foot” pairs spoken word with the soulful piano playing, while “Nocturne” emits a dreamy quality amid Burden’s cautious pipes. “Thousands Of Miles” then showcases Blythe’s powerful voice alongside the graceful key work.
Moving towards the end, “The Ballad Of Booth” is a bouncy and energetic mix of singing and talking set to hypnotic piano, and “How Can I Keep Them From Singing” exits the listen with a firm operatic approach that makes a lasting impression.
An extremely powerful and flexible listen that can also be quite comical, themes of class struggle, feminism and immigration are highlighted in a very articulate fashion that sometimes makes it seem like you’re listening to a play, and it’s executed flawlessly.
Travels well with: Andrew Lloyd Webber- Symphonic Suites; Daniil Trifonov- BACH: The Art Of Life