The Psalms

Alex Jennings's delivery is more like a skilled recitation than a narration. Jennings understands the structure of the Psalms as shaped in the well-known language of the King James Bible. Every word is delivered crisply, and his voice is dignified and always respectful. Transitions are bridged with brief excerpts of English choral music from the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries. The combination is beautiful, meditative, and unified. The one possible objection to this performance is its lack of passion. The Psalms are praise songs, and while Jennings does convey worship, he never sounds like he is moved by joy. G.T.B. (c) AudioFile 2006, Portland, Maine

March 1, 2006
The Psalms are lovely -lyrical, wise, and life-affirming. The selections of English choral music from the 16th and 17th centuries are a gorgeous accompaniment to the language of King James's court. It's been assumed that King David wrote the psalms over the course of his lifetime. A gifted musician himself, he wrote, it is believed, some of these poems as lyrics to the chief musician of his kingdom/court, Gittith. As read by Alex Jennings, the works have transcended time and entered into the ages with grace. Trained as an actor at Bristol's Old Vic Theatre Company, Jennings has spent much of his career playing roles at the Royal Shakespeare Company. His control of tone, breath, and diction is wonderful, making this listening experience a pleasure. The production quality is excellent. "The Psalms"should be purchased by libraries with large audio collections and as interest warrants; a very good addition to Jewish, biblical, and religious collections." -Pam Kingsbury, Univ. of North Alabama, Florence"

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