The Bottom Line
No matter how fantastic the performer is, unfortunately, some music just can't be made to sound good. For this reason alone is why I give Shall I Compare Thee? 3.5 stars.
Pros
- Superb blend of voices
- Shakespeare texts
Cons
- Sometimes music is "ugly"
- Harmonization spread thin at times
Description
- Released: September 2005
- 1 disk, 23 tracks
- Total Play Time: 63:00
Guide Review - Chicago a cappella - Shall I Compare Thee?
Chicago a cappella is a stunning group of performers - which is why I feel bad about this album. The feeling I get is along the lines of Why do bad things happen to good people?. Chicago a cappella is made of nine members who have been singing together for the past 12 years; their blending impeccable. Their mission is to perform "innovative concert programs at the highest possible music standards." Chicago a cappella surpasses their mission with Shall I Compare Thee, however, some songs are just plain ugly. Harmonizations are spread too thin, and several compositions do not properly fit the text. There are beautiful pieces hidden deep within the album, but I ask myself, is the journey to the center of the album worth the ache of listening to bad music? Thankfully, we can skip to the good songs.
