Greatest Hits

Wonderful voice of Ofra Haza in a 3 cd box-set. She sings mainly in Hebrew, witha few English songs, and the booklet has English translations. An absolute joy tolisten to her clear beautiful voice.

This three-CD box set is a broad coverage of Ofra's work. Most songs are in Hebrew, many are in English - each song title is in the corresponding language on its CD case. Her repertoire was extensive with Middle-Eastern styles of pop, folk, jazz as well as her traditional Yemenite songs. She was famed for her Middle-Eastern/ Rock fusion numbers which are represented here. There are some 9 of the songs which do not appear on other CDs in her worldwide catalogue and of these making this a must for Ofra fans. Of these I select "Giving", "Jerusalem of Gold" and "Listen to the Waves" as justification for buying this boxed set alone. "Giving" (or "To Give") is my No.1 Ofra song - a dramatic, emotive piece that is exquisitely performed. If it was sung in English it would rival the "Love Story" theme as a tear jerker. "Jerusalem of Gold" is a tear jerker - Ofra ends this anthem with a flourish that will put a lump in your throat - guaranteed. Another favourite of mine is the traditional "Yad Anuga" (Gentle Hand) which again is an exquisite blending of her vocals with the orchestra - I could listen to it for hours. With so many songs represented I am disappointed not to see anything from her "My Soul" CD here.Ofra was one of the greatest female singers in her own lifetime, I am pleased to hear her frequently referred to as the "Legendary Ofra Haza", to me she was number one. To be an 'Ofrafan' is to be in love with her. Sadly, she was taken from us in a tragic way, just when her career showed signs of blossoming to new heights. May the sound of her voice and the image of her beauty continue to be heard and seen eternally.May her catalogue always be reissued ![I Recommend as complimentary to this CD Set: Yemenite Songs;My Soul; Ofra Haza; Chai/Bait Ham.]