Album notes
RCA VICTOR 45 EPA
735
MONAURAL RECORDINGS
ASSEMBLED
1956
The measure of a popular music singer’s greatness, contrary to general opinion, is not necessarily found in the way he delivers the outstanding song hits of the day, but in the sentiment and feeling with which he can surround the music both of another tradition and another medium. A result of countless requests from those who have heard Perry sing on radio and television, the present collection of hymns of all types represents one of the singer’s greatest achievements. It is an album which contains not only some of Perry’s finest singing, but also what are undoubtedly among his most sincere interpretations. No one who is heard Perry sing I Believe can lightly dismiss its effect. This, tune, which has deservedly found a permanent place in popular musical literature, is one of the singer’s most frequently encored selections, and now that it has finally been recorded, seems destined to take its place in the long list of tunes which have been known as “Como standards.” It is not very often that one hears the Act of Contrition sung outside the church. Its melody, though uninvolved, is immensely affecting, as delivered by Perry with the feeling and sincerity which it richly deserves. Though the words of The Lord’s Prayer, like those of the Act of Contrition, are part of the church service itself, this simple, melodic beauty is frequently used in concert repertoire and is one of the most beloved of liturgical works. Kol Nidrei, example of a darkly emotional strain, is chanted by Perry with all the somber dignity inherent in its music. Great music cannot reasonably be called great without an interpreter of equal stature — at least, it cannot possibly strike us with the same impact. The least that can be said is that the music in this album has met with one of the finest practitioners in the field, and that the stature of each has been enhanced by this fortunate encounter. To us, the listeners, it is a rare treat to hear such a unique combination; and to Perry Como must go the honors for making the music live for us anew. Copyright by radio Corporation of America, 1956 RCA VICTOR 45 EPA 735 MONAURAL RECORDINGS ASSEMBLED 1956 |
