"MUSIC OF THE DISC."

Auckland Star, Volume LXIII, Issue 179, 30 July 1932, Page 5 (Supplement)

"MUSIC OF THE DISC."

An exceptionally beautiful recording is that of Cesar Franck's Sonata in A major, for violin and piano, played by Joan Massia and Blanche Selva, on Columbia D0X209-D0X212. It is full of lovely melody, and of the serene, spiritual atmosphere so characteristic of this great composer's best work. The

Debroy Somers Band plays on D0X236 another of the "Stealing Thro' the Classics" medleys they do so well. Debroy Somers has this time gone to grand opera for his material. Both playing and recording are as fine as wo expect from this brilliant ensemble. Another popular recording should be that of the Squire Celeste Octet playing two tuneful numbers, "Amina" and "Song of the Celeste," on DO4SS. The latter brings in some delightful effects on the celesta. For those who like organ numbers thero is D0X217, on which Quentin Maclean records "Ballad Concert Memories," a selection of eight well-known and favourite ballads. Norman Allin's great bass voice is heard on D0X283, singing "Myself When Young" and "The Bandelero." An operatic recording that should find favour is L0X156, on which the trio from Verdi's "I Lombardi" ia sung by Bianca Scacciati, Francesco Merli, and Nazareno de Angelis. Other popular recordings should be two waltzes "Mein Traum" and "Rose Mousse" (D 0672); vocal gems from "The White, Horse Inn" (D0X235); and a selection from Lehar's "The Land of Smiles," played by the London Theatre Orchestra on D0X220. Besides these there arc some clever recordings by Kate Smith of popular songs on DO6OI-OC2-6G3-064.