Sunday, January 22, 2012

John Malveaux on Kathleen Battle in 'Underground Railroad: An evening of Spirituals'


[Kathleen Battle]

John Malveaux of www.MusicUNTOLD sends this review of a performance by Kathleen Battle at UCLA yesterday:

KATHLEEN BATTLE
Underground Railroad: An evening of Spirituals
featuring Cyrus Chestnut and the Albert McNeil Jubilee Singers
Saturday Jan 21, 2012
Royce Hall-UCLA

Miss Battle offered an angelic voice with delicate phrasing and a sense of purpose throughout a well planned and executed program that deserves a PBS special and/or international tour. Brief Frederick Douglas excerpts were appropriately interspersed throughout the program by individual men in Albert McNeil Jubilee Singers. Pianist Cyrus Chestnut commanded considerable attention and received a strong standing ovation after a solo performance of 'Glory, Glory Hallelujah.' The Albert McNeil Singers achieved a dynamic balance with Miss Battle who did not speak to the audience except to recognize arranger Jacqueline Hairston in the audience. She selected 'Every Time I Feel The Spirit' for a single encore selection. Miss Battle confirmed an extensive list of career awards with continuing greatness and style.”
John Malveaux

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