Rodrick Dixon, Victor Trent Cook and Thomas Young. (Recital).('Three Mo' Tenors')(Review)

[] "THREE MO' TENORS" RCA 63827

Despite its title, this disc is not in the mold of the mass-market pastiches associated with the words "three tenors." Three Mo'Tenors is a wildly eclectic program, but carefully conceived and lovingly presented. Rodrick Dixon, Victor Trent Cook and Thomas Young are not superstars but a genuine ensemble enjoying the rewards of musical teamwork. If opera is the weakest link here, it's not because it is being tarted up for broader appeal. The arias presented receive competent, respectful treatment, although they fall short of the verve and spirit invested in the samples of blues, swing and gospel that make up the rest of the program.

The disc was recorded in a series of concerts. The creator, Marian J. Caffey, notes, "There has been a quiet absence of African--American tenors on the operatic stage, and this unique concert experience begs the question, why?" The answer that emerges may not be quite what Caffey intended: while these tenors appear to possess the vocal capital for opera, they clearly have been busy pursuing other things. The most ...