Amazon.co.uk Review
It's a tale fit for a Hollywood blockbuster: a 60-strong Welsh male choir, originally formed in 1947, plucked from obscurity and transformed into the most unlikely boyband in the world (or at least oldest - the average age is 60, the combined age 3974). In fact, their rise from the fringes to fame is already being primed for a major movie next year (produced by Zygi Kamasa of
Bend It Like Beckham and
Good Night and Good Luck fame) - but that's another story. First we have
Voices Of The Valley, an album that shows us precisely why Universal signed a group originally created to sing goodwill songs to the Welsh communities during the harsh post-war years. Comprised of rousing, traditional songs like "Jerusalem", "Danny Boy" and "Abide With Me", and interpretations of popular tunes such as the opener "Sailing", "Unchained Melody" and "You Raise Me Up", it doesn't take long for the logic of the enterprise to strike: the beautiful, graceful sound of 60 men booming joyously through your speakers and the combination of stirring vocal prowess and orchestral embellishments - is truly overwhelming.
--Danny McKenna
CD Description
A debut 59 years in the making, the Fron Male Voice Choir were formed in 1947 and have an average age of 60 years old. The most unlikely boy band in the world have produced a beautifully emotive album which appeals to young and old alike. In keeping with Welsh tradition, the collective produce a huge, joyous sound, breathing new life into traditional standards such as 'Abide With Me' and 'Jerusalem' as well as performances of their own takes on modern classics including 'You'll Never Walk Alone' and 'Unchained Melody'.