Teldec
2002
Various Composers
Our American Journey
About This Album
This collection represents not only a variety of American a cappella singing styles, but also the celebration of Chanticleer's 25-year history. The group's translucent harmonies, perfect intonation, and precise ensemble work are there in each and every track. The music ranges from pieces by the earliest Spanish-American composers to shape-note song to modern works that reflect on older singing styles and text. Also mixed in are arrangements of Stephen Foster and George Gershwin, a bluegrass song, and traditional spirituals, which all take advantage of the group's skills and show off their particular sensitivity to each one. Voices of Autumn, by Jackson Hill, makes extremely effective use of devices of Japanese Buddhist chant, while The Un-Covered Wagon, by Brent Michael Davids, not only employs Native American text, but also requires the men to vocally imitate ceremonial instruments, both in juxtaposition with a quotation of Faith of Our Fathers. Also notable are William Billings' David's Lamentation and the arrangement of Wayfarin' Stranger. The men of Chanticleer perform each piece, as well as the others on the disc, earnestly, but are also aware of the enjoyment of making the music come to life. Overall, a fine compilation that successfully represents both Chanticleer and American vocal music traditions. ~ Patsy Morita, All Music Guide
Track List

Traditional Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah (Tamworth)
1.
Juan de Lienas Credidi
2.
Juan Gutiérrez de Padilla Versa Est In Luctum, For Mixed Chorus
3.
American Traditional Jefferson And Liberty, Song
4.
William Billings David's Lamentation For Chorus
5.
Alfred Marcus Cagle Soar Away, Fuging Tune
6.
Steven Stucky Whispers
7.
Jackson Hill Voices Of Autumn
8.
Brent Michael Davids The Un-covered Wagon
9.
William Hawley Tre Rime Di Tasso
10.
11.
Stephen Collins Foster Jeanie With The Light Brown Hair, For Voice & Piano
12.
Camptown Races, For Voice & Piano
13.
George Gershwin Love Walked In, Song (from The The Goldwyn Follies, Film)
14.
Ann Ronell Willow Weep For Me
15.
Dale Lawson Calling My Children Home
16.
American Traditional Wayfaring Stranger, Religious Ballad
17.
Traditional Spiritual I'm A Pilgrim
18.