The American reissue of a 1986 European release by
the Tenores features a slightly different member line-up than 1996's S'Amore 'E Mama, and the discs share a few songs from
the Tenores' repertoire as well. Both releases are fine examples of Sardinian polyphonic singing, and the differences between the two are mostly sonic. S'Amore 'E Mama is mixed with loads of bass, the better to appreciate the contributions of Mario Pira, the bassu vocalist, whose guttural, deep nasal bellowing is said to imitate the lowing of oxen, and of contra Tancredi Tucconi, who abuses his vocal cords in emulation of bleating sheep. This earlier recording has a thinner mix that emphasizes the midrange and thus the melodies of lead singer Piero Sanna. Overall, it's a bit easier on the ears, though not nearly as dramatic as the RealWorld label release. ~ Bob Tarte