If ever there was perfection in ensemble vocals, it is in the recording TRIO, which finds Emmylou Harris, Dolly Parton, and Linda Ronstadt throwing off the shackles of stardom and creating an overall sound that completely transcends their individual sounds. On this recording, decisions have been made more on the basis of vocal suitability rather than on star power, with the opening "The Pain of Loving You" a case in point. Originally written by Dolly Parton and Porter Wagner, this would seem an obvious selection for a Parton lead vocal--but here the lead is supplied by Emmylou Harris, with Parton and Ronstadt providing flawlessly blended backups that avoid overshadowing Harris' less authoritative singing style.

Throughout the recording, the artists play a sort of musical round robin, each taking the lead in turn and each serving the other vocalists with perfectly placed support--with no one artist overshadowing the other, all three speaking with the same musical intent. It is a truly remarkable accomplishment made all the more so through its complete simplicity: there are no complex vocal arrangements, no fussy instrumentals, no studio tricks. This is musicianship pure and simple and flawless in execution.

After a memorable "Making Plans," on which Parton assumes the lead, the ladies move into what is possibly their single most remarkable cut: a country-tinged version of the memorable 1950s pop hit "To Know Him Is To Love Him," in which their voices blend and merge to such a degree that it becomes impossible to say which vocalist has assumed the dominate role in the production. Linda Ronstadt comes to the fore with the 1930s Jimmy Rogers tune "Hobo's Meditation" and a remarkably powerful "Telling Me Lies" and "I've Had Enough;" Parton provides understated and lovely leads on the self-authored "Wildflowers," the slightly bluesy "These Memories," and the traditional "Rosewood Casket;" and Emmylou Harris gives a remarkable beautiful lead on the haunting "My Dear Companion."

While it is extremely difficult to select a favorite from this recording, if pressed I would give my favorite as the closing "Farther Along," a traditional country gospel tune that features each of the ladies in turn to truly remarkable effect. But it is all good. TRIO is goose-flesh music: so perfectly done that each selection in turn makes the hair stand on the back of your neck. You'll not find finer music this side of heaven, and if the angels really do sing in paradise, this is the sound they make. A truly rapturous, miraculous recording that deserves much greater recognition than it has to date received; strongly recommended.

GFT, Amazon Reviewer

This CD is just a great treat to listen to. Parton, Ronstadt and Harris were meant to sing together. Producer George Massenburg waved his magic wand in the studio and let these great vocalists produce superlative sounds. The harmonies are on par with anything the sisters of The Rankin Family sang. It helps that this trio had great material to work with. The opener "The Pain Of Loving You" (written by Parton and Porter Wagoner) sounds as fresh today as when it was first written in 1971 - the bluegrass feel to this one is just great. Parton's "Wildflowers" is wonderfully written, but could have been made a lot better by increasing the oomph of the percussion after the first verse and chorus. Ronstadt shows off her vocal chops to great effect on "Telling Me Lies" and "Those Memories Of You" perhaps showcases the trio's harmonies the best. This is a solid recording that has become and will stay timeless. First-rate.

When I first heard of this album, I thought, "Dolly Parton and Emmylou Harris, I understand, but what the heck is Linda Ronstadt doing on that album?" Ronstadt has had her dabblings in country and bluegrass-tinged work, but I didn't see how her voice would meld with those of Parton and Harris. Turns out that Ronstadt grounds the entire album. As Harris and Parton unleash the crystalline purity of their voices, Ronstadt performs the service of grounding everything with the darker, caramel undertones of her own richer instrument. The three together work magic on such country classics as "The Pain of Loving You" (co-written by Parton and one-time co-star Porter Wagoner) and Parton's elegiac "Wildflowers." Not content to settle for only traditional country tunes, they take on Phil Spector's "To Know Him is to Love Him" and manage to turn this teenage weeper into a reflection on mature love. Backed up by such greats as Albert Lee and Ry Cooder, this album is the richest of collaborations among musicians at the peak of their powers.

The collaboration of Dolly Parton, Emmylou Harris and Linda Ronstadt is one of life's true pleasures, making TRIO a very special album. The simple, down-country tunes are easy listening, and inspire you to either hum or sing along. Personal favorites are, "Making Plans", Hobo's Meditation", "Telling Me Lies" and "Those Memories Of You." And there are many fine memories to be had from this album. Although one song is titled "I've Had Enough", you won't feel that way as the album draws slowly to a close. In fact, you'll feel like little Oliver Twist saying "More, please!" TRIO is a triple delight. Indulge yourself!

Every cd-player should come with a free copy of this album! It's simply Music At Its Best! Brilliant songs, great singers and heavenly harmonies. Dolly sounds as mischievous as ever in "Wild Flowers", "Farther Along" easily beats any version of "Amazing Grace", and Emmylou brings tears to your eyes with her version of "My Dear Companion". It's Heaven on Earth...