: Three Ravens LP (Vanguard VRS 479 original release) () 1: The Three Ravens () 2: The Cuckoo () 3: How Should I Your True Love Know () 4: Sweet Nightingale () 5: I Will Give My Love An Apple () 6: The Oak And The Ash () 7: King Henry () 8: Coventry Carol () 9: Barbara Allen () 10: Heigh Ho, The Wind And The Rain () 11: Waly, Waly () 12: Down In Yon Forest () 13: Matthew, Mark, Luke And John () 14: The Tailor And The Mouse () 15: Greensleeves () : Wraggle Taggle Gypsies Lp (Vanguard VRS 1001 original release) () 16: The Wraggle Taggle Gypsies () 17: Lord Rendall () 18: Sweet Jane () 19: The Frog And The Mouse () 20: The Seeds Of Love () 21: Flowers In The Valley () 22: Near London Town () 23: O Who's Going To Shoe Your Pretty Little Foot () 24: Blow Away The Morning Dew () 25: Searching For Lambs () 26: Sweet England () 27: Dabbling In The Dew () 28: Strawberry Fair () 29: Just As The Tide Was A Flowing ()
Description:
Three Ravens is an album by Alfred Deller, released in 2011. The album is a classical CD. - DESMOND LUPRE/ALFRED DELLER
"Three Ravens - Folksongs" on CD brings together the unmistakable artistry of countertenor Alfred Deller and organist/conductor Philippe Dupré in a finely curated collection of traditional folk songs. Rooted in the English song tradition, these interpretations focus on clarity of text, purity of line and a chamber-like intimacy that allows every nuance of the melodies to emerge. The arrangements are restrained yet deeply expressive, highlighting the timeless character of the tunes rather than overwhelming them with orchestration. Listeners can expect a contemplative, atmospheric journey through ballads and laments that balance simplicity with emotional depth, making this disc ideal both for focused listening and quiet background music.
The artist entry "Deller/Dupré" reflects a collaboration built around refined musicianship and historically informed sensibility. Alfred Deller was one of the key figures in the revival of the countertenor voice in the 20th century, renowned for his work in early music and his ability to communicate text with exceptional clarity and sensitivity. His recorded legacy shaped how later generations hear Renaissance and Baroque vocal music, and his approach to traditional songs similarly favors understatement and expressive precision over vocal display. In this context, the partnership with Dupré provides a supportive and finely balanced accompaniment that keeps the spotlight firmly on the song itself.
Alto, the label behind this release, is known for carefully curated catalogues that often bring important and sometimes lesser-known recordings back into circulation at an attractive price point. The company places emphasis on solid remastering, clear presentation and informative programming, offering both newcomers and collectors a way to explore high-quality classical and vocal repertoire without the premium costs of major labels. With "Three Ravens - Folksongs," Alto continues its focus on preserving significant interpretations and making them readily accessible, positioning the album as both a discovery for new listeners and a valuable addition for enthusiasts of vocal and folk-inspired music.
This CD is particularly suited for those who appreciate traditional melodies interpreted with classical vocal technique, early-music sensitivity and a strong narrative presence. The program's coherent mood and carefully chosen sequencing invite repeated listening, while its intimate sound world offers a compelling alternative to more modern, heavily arranged folk productions. As a result, "Three Ravens - Folksongs" stands as a refined, timeless offering within Alto's catalogue, showcasing Deller/Dupré in a setting that plays to their interpretative strengths.