Stereokarter, while I agree that the distinction between technical prowess and the quality of the music being sung is an important one, this thread is about RECOMMENDATIONS of great (best) female vocals on CD. To me, it's pointless to recommend a recording by someone with great "chops" if I can't stand listening to it; wether it be because the music sucks or as in this case, because the singing lacks any semblence of soul. I can't claim to, nor want to, be able to explain why Celine's singing leaves me cold at best and at worst annoyed. It just does. That is why I can't recommend her records. Barbara Streisand sings similar material and is IMO much more fun to listen to; she is also every bit if not more the accomplished technician. While I admire your willingness to defend someone being criticized, I am a bit perplexed by your taste for Nina Simone. She is in my book, a very different kind of singer from Celine; very soulful if not as good a technician. I'd rather listen to her anytime. Cheers.
