LPCDreissues: Looking forward to the past

From quintessentially English mid-sixties origins as select choral scholars at King's college, Cambridge the King's Singers are today one of the most influential and enduring vocal groups in the world. It was in 1965 that Alastair Hume, Simon Carrington and Brian Kay with the other choral alumni decided to record of some of the popular songs in their repertoire. The ensemble, which was originally titled Schola Cantorum Pro Musica Profana, eventually adapted the King's Singers name in May l968 for their London concert debut. Alastair hume (countertenor), Simon Carrington (baritone), Brian Kay (bass), and Anthony Holt (baritone) with Nigel Perrin (countertenor) who graduated from King's to join his friends a year later were the foundations of this remarkable group which has never diminished in virtuosity throughout its long history. The King's Singers were the first to apply choral technique to popular material and Colouring Book concentrates on their unforgettable arrangements of international hits of the sixties and early seventies. No less than seven selections are drawn from their important 1972 George Martin produced album including the remarkable 'She's Leaving Home'. Their success with compositions of Lennon and McCartney culminated in one of their most popular titles 'The Beatles Connection' which is well represented here alongside songs written by the other giants of contemporary pop; Bob Dylan, Brian Wilson, David Bowie and Neil Young. To these diverse writers, the King's Singers bring their beautiful tone, balance and synchronisation with equally marvellous effect. Not only do they perform and record, they are "Prince consort ensemble in residence" at the Royal College of Music and regularly conduct workshops and master classes all over the world. Though the King's Singers are no longer affiliated with King's College, the traditions established by those graduates are continued by new members each of whom is chosen after rigorous search and auditions. The King's Singers discography now numbers nearly forty albums and there is a book, published in 1980 'The King's Singers-A self portrait'. The last remaining original member retired in 1993 but the organisation's style and identity has been faithfully maintained and continues to flourish.
Track listing: She's Leaving Home Windmills Of Your Mind I Love You Samantha Morning Has Broken My Colouring Book Orange Yellow Ochre A Taste Of Honey After The Goldrush Life On Mars 59th Bridge Street Song (Feelin' Groovy) Space Oddity Mr Tambourine Man God Only Knows Strawberry Fields Forever Monday Monday Michelle Penny Lane Eleanor Rigby