Sir Willard White possess a beautiful, orotund, bass voice with exquisite diction that is perfectly suited for this repertoire of spirituals, Copland americana, and several delightful Jamaican folk songs. Established in the world of opera and theater, White was first known as Porgy in Maazel's landmark 1977 Decca recording of Porgy & Bess. This 1991 recording reveals his voice as having aged like a fine wine, with a full burnished tone and resonance.

Chandos engineering adds just the right amount of resonance and reverb to frame White's voice to perfection. Music to sooth the soul. This disc includes

Spirituals - Go Down, Moses, I couldn' hear nobody pray, Were you there when they crucified my Lord?, When I lay my burden down, Steal away to Jesus, In The Mornin', Gospel Train, Swing Low sweet chariot, Deep River (absolutely stunning!), Ev'ry Time I feel the Spirit

Copland Old American Songs Set 1 & 2 (Truly, an under-appreciated Copland masterpiece of song - and yes, it does include Simple Gifts)

Folk Songs from Barbados and Jamaica

Linstead Market Cordelia Brown Murder In The Market

Graeme McNaught provides the beautiful accompaniment and provides the musical foundation for this gorgeous program of song.