Amazon.com essential recording

From "Surfin'" to "Kokomo," the first four discs of this box chart the Beach Boys' inimitable 30-year course. Here are all the hits and key album tracks, and an assortment of unreleased material that illuminates Brian Wilson and company's immense contribution to the development of pop music. (Especially fascinating are the assembled fragments from Wilson's abandoned 1966 masterwork, Smile.) A fifth disc features demos, radio spots, live tracks, and studio goodies for the hardcore fan. The set confirms Brian's hardworking genius, but also gives each member his due, especially the late Carl Wilson. Rock & roll music grew up with the Beach Boys, and this box is rock's best family album. --Ben Edmonds ... Read more

Reviews (69)

Good Vibrations: more than great music, its a philosophy.
The Beach Boys - perhaps the greatest vocal group of all time - are also just about the best thing to ever happen to American Rock`n'roll. And the proof is on this box set - a FANTASTIC, well-done compilation.

For the die-hard fan, 5 discs is of course, not NEAR enough space to encapsulate all of Brian Wilson's music - indeed, his genius, onto. Nevertheless, whether its the die-hard fan supplementing his or her Beach Boys catalog, or the casual BB's fan (and perhaps the die-hard to be?), looking for a REAL introduction to the Beach Boys - this is a GREAT box set.

More than a "greatest hits" package, its a chronological journey into the BB's story (which proves once again, that truth is stranger than fiction), their rise and fall, the shining moments, and irrefutable proof of Beach Boy leader, Brian Wilson's genius.

"Greatest hits" are included of course, but there's also rare unearthed studio material, live stuff - heck, the 30 minutes of never before (officially) released SMiLE material is worth the price of the box set ALONE! To echo another reviewer's comments here, compared to SMiLE, Sgt. Pepper sounds amateurish. If you haven't heard this stuff yet, you've got to - its intense!

Fantastic music, great liner notes, even a cool sticker - from "Surfin'" to "Kokomo," this box opened the door to the world of Beach Boys/Brian Wilson music and transformed me into a HUGE fan - I suspect it will do the same to you. The music is simply too good to deny.

My Two Cents Worth
Compiling an anthology that is representative of the breath of the recorded output of a group as influential as the Beach Boys is a near impossible task. Everyone will have a level of dissatisfaction as to what songs were omitted and why was there so much material devoted to a particular album. With that said, there's no doubt in this humble reviewer's opinion, that the selections pretty much cover the gamete and offer a good cross section of the entire scope of the BB's music. However, without nit-picking, here's my two cents worth of gripping.

I can live without the Fairy Tale Music. Maybe someday I'll understand what exactly Brian was attempting to convey in this drug induced weirdness. Also 3 of the last 4 songs on Disc 4, Our Team, Goin' On and Getcha Back represent the BB's at their lowest period and are sad reminders of their decline under Mike Love's leadership. But my biggest gripe is the omission of my all time, positively favorite, number one BB song. From the super wonderful Beach Boys Today album, loaded with great material and unbelievable Brian Wilson production....How could they possibly exclude Kiss Me Baby? The Beach Boys Today marks a distinct point in thier career, where Brian Wilson really took the helm and decided he would navigate the course and become the omnipresent vision, as they evolved toward Pet Sounds and beyond. Unfortunately, we all know too well where that path led, drugs, depression and self distruction. Just listen to the lush arrangements, the harmonies and the superlative production of Kiss Me Baby. In many ways this is one of the BB's greatest achievements.

But I'll stop nit-picking. Good Vibrations, the box set is a wonderful anthology, chuck full of some of the greatest music ever created by one of America's national treasures. Buy it, listen to it and enjoy. You'll not hear the likes of this music ever again. That's my two cents worth.

Great Vibrations
Out of all the boxed sets I've owned, "Good Vibrations: Thirty Years Of The Beach Boys" remains my favorite. More complete than any "greatest hits" album, it features hours of classic music that still sounds as fresh and lively as it did 40 years ago. And for 5 discs, it's worth every penny.

Disc 1 begins with the early, innocent years. No innovative instrumentations or acid trips here. Just clean American rock and roll. These songs - "Fun, Fun, Fun", "Surfin' USA", "Don't Worry Baby", "Be True To Your School" and many others - encapsule what America is all about: fun and freedom, a place you can go where you want and do what you want. Nobody was better at this then The Beach Boys. The unreleased stuff is an extra treat: alternative versions of "Surfin'", the great instrumental "Punchline", the pretty "The Things We Did Last Summer" and many more are finally seeing the light of day.

Disc 2 spans from 1965 to 1967. It was during ths time that Brian Wilson took production control of the group and they cut their most exciting records - "California Girls", "Wouldn't It Be Nice", "Sloop John B.", "God Only Knows" and "Good Vibrations". They had time to cut some simple pop songs that launched their career like "Barbara Ann" and "Help Me Rhonda". At the end of the disc comes the treat. In 1993, Brian Wilson let the people who put this collection together include 30 minutes of music from the "Smile" sessions. Here is where you'll find alternate versions of "Heroes And Villians", and "Vegetables" (incuding unreleased sections of the former), the spooky instrumentals "I Love To Say Da Da" and "Do You Like Worms", and Brian's eerie demo of "Surf's Up". Also are two songs released on 1969's "20/20": the chilling a capella "Our Prayer" and the spacey "Cabinessence".

Disc 3 begins with some tracks from 1967's "Wild Honey": the title track, "Darlin'" and the haunting "Let The Wind Blow". Then there's a demo of "Cool Cool Water" (later released on "Sunflower". Then comes a suite of tracks from my two favorite Beach Boys albums: "Friends" and "20/20". These songs are among their best works: "Meant For You", "Friends", "Little Bird", "Busy Doin' Nothin'", "Do It Again", "Bluebirds Over The Mountain", "I Can Hear Music", "Time To Get Alone", and "I Went To Sleep". These songs alone make this my favorite disc. Next comes three unreleased tracks: Dennis' "San Miguel", "Games Two Can Play" and "I Just Got My Pay" (which later became "Marcella"). These lead into another suite of tracks from "Sunflower" and "Surf's Up", including the uplifting "Add Some Music To Your Day", the punchy "This Whole World", and the chilling "'Til I Die".

Disc 4 is the weakest disc. There are a number of setbacks: tracsk from "Carl And The Pasions", "15 Big Ones" and "Love You". But there are some great songs: "Marcella", "Sail On Sailor" and "Trader". There's also Dennis' haunting swan song "Baby Blue", the great cover of "Come Go With Me", the catchy "Getcha Back", and "Kokomo".

Disc 5 has a wealth of goodies, including backing trakcs, demos, vocal - only versions and live recordings. The closer to this disc (and the set) is a heartwrenching version of "Surfer Girl" from 1967. This version, with sparse instrumentation, is one of the most beautiful things ever recorded.

This is a great cd that very music fan will enjoy. It is worth the money. Also, get "Pet Sounds", "Beach Boys Today", "Friends", "20/20", "Sunflower" and "Surf's Up", all excellent albums. And don't forget: "Smile" comes out in September.

Excellent compilation!
This excellent compilation gives listeners an opportunity to hear the history of the Beach Boys over a span of thirty years. It must have been a daunting task to go through their collected work to pick the songs for this collection.

I can't listen to this compilation without feeling sadness for the deterioration of Brian Wilson's mental, physical, and creative capacities. "Good Vibrations" documents a band that starts out with vigor and confidence, reaches a creative peak in the mid-sixties, and then slides down a slope for a slippery ride into the seventies and eighties.

"Pet Sounds" is regarded as Brian Wilson's masterpiece. The single, "Good Vibrations," is widely regarded as the greatest single release of all time. I don't argue with either point. I think it's interesting, since I teach English, to compare Brian Wilson's work ("Pet Sounds" and "Smile," the aborted follow-up to "Pet Sounds") with James Joyce's last two novels, "Ulysses" and "Finnegan's Wake." Joyce was fortunate to complete "Finnegan's Wake" before his death, while Brian's misfortune allowed his "Smile" project to be shelved before it was released to the public. "Ulysses," like "Pet Sounds," is regarded as a masterpiece. Unreleased songs from the "Smile" project, which can be found on this compilation, bring to mind Joyce's "Finnegan's Wake." Both "Smile" and "Finnegan's Wake" are follow-ups to works which are regarded as masterpieces (where does an artist go after producing a masterpiece?) "Smile" and "Finnegan's Wake" are much more overtly experimental than the masterpieces which preceded them. The writing of both works oftens veers off into obscurantism. As such, both "Finnegan's Wake" and "Smile," the fragments of which appear on this collection, seem more designed to be respected tan enjoyed. Reading "Finnegan's Wake," like listening to the songs from "Smile," is hard work. The works are challenging, difficult to penetrate, and hard to make sense of once penetrated. "Ulysses" and "Pet Sounds" are easier to digest than the works which follow.

I'm definitely getting off on a tangent. But one wonders what Brian Wilson's work and career would have been like if he had never ingested LSD. Would he have created "Pet Sounds" or "Smile?" Would he have kept producing quality music, and supervising the recording sessions for the Beach Boys, into the seventies and beyond? Interesting questions. I really can't see "Smile" being created without the influence of LSD. It's interesting to see how drugs affect an artist and their work. In Brian's case, as in John Lennon's case, drugs seemed to open up windows which had been closed in their heads. Initially, drugs gave them inspiration by allowing them to experience the world in a different way and then using music to express that experience to others. At some point, drugs stopped being an aid and became an enemy. Instead of inspiration, drugs became a crutch. It's scary to realize that the voice croaking out the forlorn lyrics to the demo, "Still I Dream of It," is the same vocalist that effortlessly graced the melody of "The Warmth of the Sun."

All in all, the best music of the Beach Boys, which can be found on this compilation, is the best music ever created by an American pop group. It is timeless.

too much good vibration
This has all the songs you love...and lots of stuff you don't want. THIS IS ONLY A GOOD VALUE IF YOU BUY IT USED.

If you are a casual fan I would better recommend "sounds of summer". If you are a die-hard-fan you might perfer Greatest hits Vol 1, 2 and 3 to this "Good Vibrations" boxed set. But basically it contains everything "sounds of summer" contains plus more obscure hits like 409, punchline, all summer long, in my room and wendy .

BUT it has a lot of filler some of it gets monotnous and drags on forever. You have to dig through 4 discs of 25+ tracks each to find the songs you like.

Even the die-hard-fans would have a hard time appreciating 4 versions of Heroes and Villains. Discs 1 and 2 have 90% of the good stuff. Discs 3 and 4 only have a couple of decent songs on each of them. Disc 5 is mostly a waste, it only has a couple of decent live performances. The rest is demos, instrus and radio spots that only work to annoy you. ... Read more

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It's not opera; it's not a pop concert; it's not Broadway. It's all of theseand none of them. Once you accept the fact that this sequel to the originalblockbuster concert recording is less about music and more about entertainmentand the power of musical personalities, you can appreciate what you're hearingas an event--phenomenal and bizarre, momentous and frivolous. This is anoccasion to celebrate the voices and egos of three huge superstars, and to havefun listening as Luciano Pavarotti, Placido Domingo, and Jose Carreras interact,bouncing lines off each other and playing to the overwhelmingly enthusiasticaudience. Much of the fun and flavor of the concert is dependent on seeing theaction, though, and without the visuals you notice flaws in the singing muchmore. Domingo comes off as the more solid performer, and his voice is in farbetter shape than the other two. But if you crave big, high, and loud--and youdon't take your opera too seriously--you'll love this disc. --David Vernier ... Read more

Reviews (9)

Give em a 3.5
The Three Tenors has/have become a cottage industry, churning out one CD after another for every imaginable event and in every combination. This does not mean that the results are necessarily inferior but it does imply a commercial, layman's approach. And maybe this is better - spreading the joys of fine music to the masses. After all, where besides figure skating and cartoons do most people have a chance to even hear opera?

This event, like the first one in Rome, has a magnificent setting but, like Rome, the show was marketed mainly to the American audience. They still include the dreadful "Maria" with the hilarious pronunciation and even added "With a Song In My Heart" (or, as Carreras is wont to sing, "Weeth a Soeeng een My Haht"). Though some may deride the choice of encores, they were almost perfect. The Three Tenors, despite their prior celebrity, are creations of our culture of entertainment in ways that Caruso could only dream about.

Synopsis: Carreras stands out, Domingo substitutes volume for quality and Pavarotti soars when he doesn't have to.

The Most Enjoyable Evening IN !!!!!!!!!!!
I am not a regular Opera fan, hoever these THREE are the Best. their songs they sing together are SUPER!!! And the range of NOTES REACHED ARE REMARKABLE. tHE MIXTURE of songs is a treat for all, even if you are not an OPERA FAN!!!! Great show!!!!!!

Hmmmm....
Not what I thought it was going to be. I like only about 4 of the 20+ tracks on this CD. I shoudl have just bought the DVD instead and actually watched them perform. Much, much more entertaining.

Last Encore of songs missing off C.D.
The Three Tenors are my absolute favourite singers. The 1994 Concert was undoubtedly their best in my view. I taped this live concert from the television, and have played and played and played it!! I also taped it on a cassette, however, when I bought the C.D. I was really disappointed that they did not include the last set of encore songs, which included O Sole a Mio (don't know if I've spelt that correctly), where Placido and Jose try and outdo Luciano!! It received such a fantastic reception from the crowd, (one of the many standing ovations), and really showed how much the Three Tenors seemed to enjoy performing the concert. How come this was not included? I don't know if it was on the Video because I play my own.

Many thanks for your time,

With kind regards,
Pam Sargeant.

Three great tenors
Almost no one in the entire world has a voice that can equally compare to that of the three tenors. Pavarotti is at his best, particularly with his spectacular rendition of the hit, Nessun Dorma. Domingo and Carreras also make a significant contribution since they also sing some songs solo. The best part is when they all get together to sing a popular tune, which is basically a demonstration of their talent. They are three brilliant shines who are even brighter when they share the stage together. ... Read more

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The pop Christmas album is a lost art everywhere but in the country-western arena. You don't see today's rock acts reeling off sets of religious standards the way you used to--which is probably for the best. But even within the whole country milieu, since album release schedules aren't as fast-paced and casual as they once were, a good seasonal CD is something to latch onto. What we have here is a Christmas album of solid construction, packed with traditional songs and old-Nashville chestnuts. No surprises and no smash hits, but that's not what it's about. --Gavin McNett ... Read more

Reviews (13)

Beyond The season was great album
I love this album esp the song the gift which is so touching. i recommend every Country fan or garth brooks fan to add this one to there collection.

Reasons?
It's interesting that Mr. Brooks used to be in advertising. Because he has done for country music what the Saatchi brothers did for the advertising industry. And that is to make it big business.

And while county fairs, not stadiums, are the true venue of country music, you can't deny how he's transformed the industry.

In recent years George Jones, the most colossal talent in country music, has befriended Brooks. Maybe Garth will start doing more country shows and fewer rock concerts.

Favorite christmas album
I first heard this album when i was a child and i "borrowed" it from my sister. I wore the tape out because i listened to it so much. My favorite song is the 'donkey' song (#7 The Friendly Beasts)in which all the different animals in the christmas story sing and tell what they did to contribute to Jesus's birth and to help his family out. I love the whole album and would definitly recommend it to anyone.

Another smash by Garth!
As a hardcore Garthnut I have to say I've never been dissapionted by his work, and this album is no exeption!

Smashing.
I think Garth's work on this album isn't any different from his other works. It's smashing, a wonderful celebration of the season in all areas. I really don't see how anyone can be disapointed with Garth in any way with this seasonal masterpiece. ... Read more

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She's been hailed for her multi-octave vocal range--a tool that sometimes detracts from her pop recordings, but actually works quite beautifully in the context of this charming holiday collection. Fans will surely approve of Carey's renditions of slinky secular songs like "Christmas (Baby, Please Come Home)" and a nicely subdued "All I Want for Christmas Is You." But where she really surprises is in her unadorned delivery of a passel of traditional carols, highlighted by "Silent Night" (which she sings quietly, avoiding the temptation to wail those high notes) and "Jesus, Oh What a Wonderful Child." A must for diehards, and a pleasant surprise for the unconverted. --David Sprague ... Read more

Reviews (116)

Amazing Christmas collection!
This cd is one of Mariah's best cd, her voice is on top condition, and one of the best xmas collection ever. The songs are:

1. Silent Night (9.5/10) - Mariah does a calm vesion, and it's very good.

2. All I Want For Christmas Is You (9.5/10)The classic mariah holyday song, everyone likes this one.

3. O Holy Night (10/10)- Amazing Vocals, Best Version of this song ever.

4. Christmas (Baby Please Come Home) (8.5/10) - Great Arrangement

5. Miss You Most (At Christmas Time) (9/10) - Tradicional MAriah Romantic Ballad but is Xmas Related. The Great thing here is the simple but amazing arrangement and her awesome voice, again.

6. Joy To The World (7.5/10) - unfortunately Mariah put a beat that doesn't fill here, but in the end ít becomes good.

7. Jesus Born On This Day (8.5/10) - touching song, children singing, calm, great.

8. Santa Claus Is Comin' To Town (9.5/10) - another classic song that mariah made the best version ever.

9. Hark! The Herald Angels Sing / Gloria (In Excelsis Deo)(9/10)- great vocals of Mariah and all the background singers.

10. Jesus What A Wonderful Child (9.5/10)- great gospel side of Mariah.

Overall, amazing. As someone here wrote, Mariah sings gospel very well, and should have more gospel influences on her regular records.

Awesome showcase of Mariah's talent
This, in my opinion, is one of Mariah's best. Very touching, heartwarming, and altogether awesome, this album is an absolute MUST for any Mariah Carey fan. And Mariah doesn't take a break from writing her own songs here--she wrote a few songs on this CD, including "All I Want For Christmas is You" and "Jesus Born on This Day." In my opinion, "Jesus Born on This Day" and "Oh Holy Night" are the two best tracks on this album, but of course, I liked all her other songs, too. Definitely buy this one--I can almost totally guarantee that you won't be sorry. It's a milestone in Mariah's singing career! =)

Lovely For Chritstmas and any time!!!
I must admit I liked this CD very much. I even played it after christmas. The Asian Version has 11 tracks. The bonus track is God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen. A very nice vocally performed song. Vocally done very nicely with the layering of vocals and is not boring to listen to. In fact most of this album is in her gospel singing. I just love it.

Christmas in June??????
I bough this album last Friday it's amazingi love it
SILENT NIGHT 10/10
Good
ALL I WANT FOR CHRISTMAS IS YOU 10/10
Amazing
O HOLY NIGHT 10!/10
Awesome!
CHRISTMAS (BABY PLEASE COME HOME)10/10
Sad
MISS YOU MOST 10/10
Sadder than "Christmas" I'll give an 11
JOY TO THE WORLD 10/10
Dance hit!
JESUS BORN ON THIS DAY 10/10
I love it
SANTA CLAUS IS COMIN' TO TOWN 10/10
It's like "All I want for christmas is you
HARK! THE HERALD ANGELS SING/GLORIA (IN EXCELCIS DEO)9/10
Good

JESUS, OH WHAT A WONDERFUL CHILD!10/10
Funny
GOD REST YE MERRY GENTLEMEN 10/10
Bonus track, it's amazing and beautiful

MARIAH RULES
Mariah Christmas album really shows off her talent. My favorites are "All I Want For Christmas Is You" and "Baby Please Come Home" ... Read more

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Toby Keith's got a big heart, judging by the songs he's written and the songs he's chosen to sing on Christmas to Christmas. Many show concern for the homeless ("Santa I'm Right Here") or disdain for the crass commercialization of the season--told through the voice of a small girl ("Jesus Gets Jealous of Santa Claus")--and other timely sentiments. Trouble is, Keith's not a great songwriter (although he's not bad storyteller). What adds to his shortcomings as a wordsmith are his melody lines, which generally sound punch pressed from that crass commercialized Nashville mold. Keith fans will enjoy the selections, however, and nearly anyone can appreciate the fact that he chose not to make a record of the same tired old standards played in the tired old contemporary-country way. --Martin Keller ... Read more

Reviews (9)

TUBY THE REDNECK RAINDEER.
If you are not a fan of TUBY then you'll totally not enjoy this poorly conceived product.

TUB does not master the vocal range, quality or style to pull off a successful country flavored holiday CD package as did MARTINA, KENNY, GARTH, REBA, ANNE MURRAY or VINCE GILL. This is unfortunately a total waste of your money.

Plenty of original songs
Toby avoided all the obvious songs for this collection of Christmas songs. Indeed, the only cover (as far as I know) is the title track, an outstanding love song which I first came across on Lee Greenwood's 1985 album, also titled Christmas to Christmas, and which has also been recorded by Tanya Tucker among others.

The songs here include all aspects of the festive season and cover all moods, mixing sad songs with happy songs. Christmas rock is a great rocking song. Blame it on the mistletoe is a reflective love song. Hot rod sleigh is an amusing song that will appeal to children of all ages. In another amusing song, Toby has problems with his woman and warns her that Santa's gonna take it all back. Santa I'm right here is a sad song about a homeless family.

Perhaps the outstanding song here is Jesus gets jealous of Santa Claus, a song that points out the problems that some people have in combining the religious and festive aspects of Christmas.

There are many other great songs here. If you enjoy country music and you are looking for a collection of original songs, this is just what you are looking for.

A terrific holiday album.
If you're a fan of Toby Keith or even a country music fan, you must have this CD! On this album, instead of having Christmas tunes everybody has heard before, Toby uses original holiday music. "Hot Rod Sleigh" is a funny song about how Santa has a new, fast hot rod sleigh to keep up with all the children. "Christmas Rock" and "Santa's Gonna Take It All Back" are also fun! "Santa, I'm Right Here," which is about a homeless family living on the street, is touching. "Bethlehem in Birmingham" is very sweet and so are "Jesus Gets Jealous of Santa Claus" and "All I Want for Christmas."

All of the songs on "Christmas To Christmas" are wonderful! It's truly one of my favorite holiday albums of all-time. Toby Keith is a great singer and songwriter and it shows on this record. I highly recommend it!

If you want a few different tunes in the holiday rotation...
I will admit it, I am a Christmas music junkie! I have holiday music from many eras. The big problem when I play holiday tunes, is that most of the artists choose from a pool of 20-30 of the same tunes. This disc isn't full of retreads. That is a great strength. You can toss one of these originals between old standards for a great holiday mix. It seems to be aging gracefully. I have it on now, and it doesn't seem dated.

A must-have Christmas album
Toby Keith's Christmas album is an excellent example of his singing and songwriting skills. "Blame it on the Mistletoe" is a very sweet song. "Christmas Rock" and "Hot Rod Sleigh" are great rocking tunes that make you laugh, while "Santa Gets Jealous of Santa Claus" and "What Made the Baby Cry" are real tear-jerkers. Any fan of Toby Keith needs this album to make their collection complete! ... Read more

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When your life's work is collecting the most absurd and goofy tunes ever recorded, the phrase "life's work" takes on an entirely less menacing tone. For Dr. Demento, "work" entails rounding up Daffy Duck's finest-ever performance, a Monty Python ditty, a few Weird Al Yankovic tunes, and a number of other nutty classics in an uninhibited tribute to absurdity. While most of the material here is parody or novelty tunes, some of the set's funniest moments are the straight comedy pieces: George Carlin on food abandoned in the fridge, Cheech & Chong at the beach, and the hilariously absurd Vestibules doing "Bulbous Bouffant." While certainly not something designed for repeated listening, you never know when you'll have the unbearable urge to hear "Itsy Bitsy Teenie Weenie Yellow Polka Dot Bikini." --S. Duda ... Read more

Reviews (9)

Dr.Demento-Still CrazyAfter AllTheseYears
I've been a huge fan of Dr.Demento since the mid-1970's-Unfortunately,his program isn't heard in the NY metro area at the present time,which is a doggone shame-You will not be disappointed with this particular anthology-My favorite cuts are "The Elements","Deteriarota","Ice Box Man",& that ode to pulchritude,"Bras on 45"-If you're a true Dementite or Dementoid, you must purchase this one.

Music To Make My Road Trip Fly!
Before taking a well deserved road trip this summer to San Fran. I bought Dr. Demento's 30th!, The Annoying Music Show CD, and Golden Throats. Needless to say, thanks to the good Doctor, Jim Nayder & William Shatner -I've never laughed so hard in my life. The songs fit the changing scenes and people so perfectly, it was frightening. The miles flew by, and I don't think I turned on my radio more than 4 or 5 times -only to get the weather. I kept popping the CD's back in, mainly because I COULDN'T BELEIVE IT. These songs have to be listened to carefully and should be appreciated as what is truly American classical music from the Bizarro World. Thanks Doc!!!!

I can't believe it's been 30 years already!
What can you say about a man whose work has inspired many and entertained generations? As someone once said laughter is indeed the best medicine and we're in a sick world here.

This CD is brilliant - the only flaw I find is that some of the songs are older and have been on previous Dr. D CD's. Weird Al is of note here - he's done some terrific work recently yet all his songs here are old (from the 1980's). Also, it seemed odd to me that there was not more Spike Jones.

Many thanks to Dr. D and I look forward to his 35th and 40th anniversary collections too!

My name is XXXXX, and I listen to Dr Demento...
... a tragic admission at many encounter sessions.

But what the hell, I'm a member of the Demento Society and yay for lunacy!

This collection brings out tunes and sketches that have not been seen since "Greatest Novelty Records of All Time". I still have the cassette with "Rock and Roll Doctor" on it. A good chunk of these tracks I only had from recordings off the airwaves.

It must be acknowledged that there will ALWAYS be a Weird Al, Tom Lehrer, Spike Jones, or Stan Freberg on each compilation. The reason is simple, name recognition and pure talent. With any luck, subsequent revisions and releases will have the many out-of-print works of the likes of the Frantics, Shel Silverstein, and the "Them-Poems" of Mason Williams.

Anyone who listened to and enjoyed the show, briefly, casually, will surely feel justified in adding this (and the two previous) compilation to his/her collection. The humor is timeless.

Thank You Dr D,for providing us with classic novelty recordings, thank you for keeping these things archived so that they can be tranferred to a less destructable medium, thank you bringning us this album!

Stay DEEE-MENTED!

Oh, the threads that weave the cloth of Dementia...
It's great to find even more Dr. Demento favorites on one tidy package, especially "It's a Gas," "I Want My Baby Back" (both of which I have not heard in almost 25 years!), and "Hamster Love." OK, so there isn't any Spike Jones or Allan Sherman here; that's all right, there are plenty of anthologies of their material around. OK, so there are one Tom Lehrer and three "Weird Al" Yankovic tracks; that's all right as two of the "Weird Al" tracks fit very nicely into the scheme of things (true, I, too, am tired of seeing Weirld Al on these anthologies). What is great about this set is that almost all of the tunes relate to each other in some bizarre way or another in a series of thematic chains; some are obvious, others subliminal.

Starting on the first disc, the first five tracks are almost independent to each other, complete with an overture ("Daffy Duck's Rhapsody"). The first thematic chain begins with "Dungeon and Dragons," leading to a few tracks of matters of fringe characters. The Ozzie Fudd track leads to "Stress," then to "On the Shoulders of Freaks," which leads nicely to a tome of "over the shoulder boulder holders" ("Bras on 45") and other tunes regarding undergarments, culminating to Brian Hyland's ditty leading to beach scenes. The Cheech & Chong bit leads to the subject of vacations, tied in with Weird Al's "Twine" track. After the Chuck Berry fluke tune (his only #1 when his prime tunes came up quite short; chart robbery I say, but that's another story), "It's a Gas" relates to the "Twine" tune in regards to roadtrips and what to put into the vehicle, leading to another car tune which tragically goes awry ("I Want My Baby Back"), segueing to what happens after someone departs ("Last Will and Temperment").

The second disc opens with the Bonzo's Beatle Paul-produced "Urban Spaceman" (I am glad to see the Bonzos acknowledged in a Demento anthology; the complete boxset of all of their albums, Cornology, is worth seekingout; we miss Viv Stanshall), which goes to "Bulbous Bouffant," taking place at an urban bus stop. The bus eventually arrives, but it is alas stuffed to the rafters ("Another One Rides the Bus"). Then we get a series of fauna-related tunes, culminating to one critter which meets it demise ("Dead Skunk"), what likely caused it ("You Were Speeding") and the feelings arising from it ("I Hate When That Happens"). The rest of the disc is made up of a combination of odd lifestyles, occupations, dementia(of course), and what to do about it. The last three tunes offer some choices (as it were) on the last subjects; one can, A) seek professional help("Everything Reminds Me of My Therapist", harking to the previous "Rock & Roll Doctor"); B) escape and have some fun (Mrs. Miller's spirited, if that is the correct word, rendition of "Downtown"); or C) just revel in its demented glory as Ivor Biggun so eloquently states (not that there's anything wrong with that!).

But you know, despite all that blathering, it is quite a fun set (although I would have love to have seen Les Crane's "Desiterata" segue right into "Deteriorata"). It is a great combination of well-known tidbits of lunacy and lesser-known diamonds in the dementia rough. I just wish the good Doctor's show could get back here in the Bay Area. I hope that in future Demento anthologies such acts like anything by the Android Sisters, "Mama Get Your Hammer (There's a Fly on Baby's Head)" by the Bobby Peterson Quartet and Ogden Edsel's "Kinko the Kid Loving Clown" will get to see the light of CD day. Thank you, Dr. Demento. ... Read more

Reviews (16)

CountryInterviewsOnline.net
Before I got this CD, I had already decided, because of the title, that I wasn?t going to like it. I had to review it so I put it on the CD player. It?s almost worn out already because I keep playing it over and over. The title cut is an original song about how Kenny likes to go to the Caribbean instead of staying up north (Tennessee?) where it?s cold. It?s got a soft easy Caribbean beat which is very easy to listen to. Jingle Bells is also done to a calypso beat ? very fun with the Caribbean steel drums. They played with the lyrics a bit on this song too. I?ll Be Home for Christmas, Silver Bells and O Little Town of Bethlehem all are done traditionally. He covers the Oak Ridge Boys? Thank God for Kids and duets with Randy Owen on Alabama?s Christmas in Dixie and Willie Nelson on his Pretty Paper. Silent Night is done with the Grigsby Twins (his mom and aunt). You?d think you were sitting around the piano harmonizing with them.
I give this CD a **** of ***** rating. You?ll be pleasantly surprised by this CD.

Also published at http://www.CountryInterviewsOnline.net

Awesome Christmas CD
Kenny did a great job with his first CD. I love all the songs on this CD, my favorites are "All I want for Christmas Is a Real Good Tan" and "Thank God for Kids". I live in COLD Michigan and I love the upbeat sunny Christmas feeling Kenny presents in the title song. I am a preschool teacher and enjoy being around children, so when I saw Kenny recorded and included "Thank God for Kids" on its CD I definely wanted it. He does an awesome job with that song. I think he does a terrific job with all the traditional Christmas songs and it was wonderful that his Aunt and Mom join in on the song "Silent Night". Keep up the great work Kenny and keep the songs coming :)

Brrrrrrr....
Even though it's cold outside, Kenny's Christmas CD will take you to another place where the weather is warm and the drinks are cold. True to his "island/Caribbean" sound that has made him such a hit, you'll imagine that you are surrounded by a beautiful white beach, blue water and all your loved one's during the holidays.
I choose not to nit-pick each and every song like others may do..I have my favorites but they are all fabulous.

A relief for those of us who live in the tropics
This is a fun album, and a relief for those of us who are tired of people (like other reviewers here) calling our locations "non-Christmas," or saying that "it's hard to imagine people celebrating Christmas on an island..." News, everyone: PEOPLE WHO LIVE ON ISLANDS DO CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS, AND IT FEELS NORMAL TO US. Yes, I know I am shouting, but I am sick of this Christmas snow stereotype. Did it snow on the first CHristmas in Bethlehem?

Back to the album, it's light and fun and pleasant and gets me in a cheery holiday mood that's well suited to the nice weather we islanders enjoy at this time of year. "All I want for Christmas a real good tan" is just lots of fun. Most of us who celebrate Christmas in warm weather are pretty darn tired of all the Christmas songs that make it sound like snow is a necessity for keeping the holiday spirit alive. It isn't. Bravo, Kenny.

Great Job
The Kenny Chesney "All I Want For Christmas Is A Real Good Tan" album is wonderful. The titles track is untraditional, but great. By the title alone one should assume it will not be a traditional song. Christmas In Dixie is also superb! GREAT JOB KENNY, KEEP IT UP! ... Read more

Amazon.com

Those degenerate cousins of Beavis and Butt-head have issued a predictable hash of 18 X-rated holiday songs for fans only. Rude, crude, outrageous outhouse humor certain to offend anyone who doesn't know South Park from the North Pole, these bellicose brats lambaste Hindus, Shintoists, and those of other faiths for not celebrating Christmas and remind us all that we'll one day be "Dead Dead Dead" (so enjoy each and every Christmas!). In between scattered bits of genuine holiday snippets, there's poop fixations ("Mr. Hankey the Christmas Poo"), Jewish obsessions ("The Lonely Jew at Christmas" and "Dreidel, Dreidel, Dreidel"), "The Most Offensive Song Ever" (the Mary and Joseph story told, in part), and the sexual entendres of "What the Hell Child Is This?" Funny stuff? Maybe only if you tune in regularly and know that they frequently kill Kenny. And that's a big maybe. --Martin Keller ... Read more

Reviews (60)

Not-so-happy holidays in South Park...
Although I'm a regular viewer of South Park, and have enjoyed most of the show's holiday-themed eppies, I never really took much of a liking to either the "Mister Hanky's Christmas Classics" CD or its companion TV episode. I found most of the classic Xmas chestnuts as performed by various residents of South Park either ordinary or grating. Mr. Mackey adding his trademark "M'Kay" to parts of "Carol of the Bells" doesn't add much levity to the tune I'm sorry to say. And Stan's big sister Shelley yelling at her brother and Kyle to "shut UP, +u®d$!!!" between each verse of "I Saw Three Ships" was more annoying than funny.

Another downer for me was the singing of Eric Cartman. As much as I love to watch him make a complete @$$ of himself each week, and marvel at how unrelentingly evil he is episode after episode, I can't stand listening to him belt out solo tunes like he does here with "O Holy Night" and "Swiss Colony Beef Log"! Well, except for "Kyle's Mom is a Big Fat B!+c#", but that tune was meant to be crooned in an annoying fashion. I gotta admit, though, he isn't half-bad when he's doin' backup or ensemble singing, like in the South Park movie.

My reaction to Mr. Garrison's "Merry F'in Christmas"-- which features everybody's favorite puppet-handed and formerly closeted homosexual elementary school teacher coercing non-Christmas-observing cultures 'round the world to celebrate the Yuletide, OR ELSE-- was one of indifference. Which is kinda weird, 'cuz I usually enjoy and/or am shocked by the brand of mean-spirited humor this particular track doled out in spades. "The Most Offensive Song Ever" also failed to get much of a rise outta me. If you're wondering why it's referred to as "the most offensive song ever", I'll try to clue ya in. For a start, it's a tune about Mary, the mother of Christ. And the "offensive" part involves Kenny's muffled, unintelligible crooning of the first part of the chorus, and Mr. Hankey finishing the chorus by saying "... and still be a virgin". The track's purpose is to get unholy thoughts rollin' through your head about what kinds of wrong things the mother of the Lord would do to get her kicks, yet still maintain her, er, purity. My indifference to this track likely stems from the fact that I'd been harboring such a plethora of similar sacrilegious theories for so long before this tune ever came out, that I'd pretty much mined every bit of hilarity in the concept out of me by the time my ear first caught this track. If that makes any sense...

Fortunately, I found a couple cuts reasonably entertaining. "Dead, Dead, Dead" achieves the paradox of being both a fitting AND a highly inappropriate Holiday tune for the whole family to enjoy. Don't expect to be too cheerful after hearing that one. And "Christmas Time In Hell" (sung by Satan, AKA the former gay lover of the recently-captured despot Saddam Hussein) has more than a few smile-crackin' verses in it. Heck, I even liked listening to "Hitler" belting out "O Tannenbaum" in a less-than-cheery falsetto. These three tracks alone are worth the bucks-- granted you buy this for under five smackers from one of an Amazon Marketplace seller, that is...

Now if you're lookin' for some TRULY funny Yuletide tracks, take a listen to...
- "If it Doesn't Snow on Christmas" on Joe Pesci's "Vincent LaGuardia Gambini Sings For You" CD
- "Holy $#!+, It's Christmas!" on Red Peters' "I Laughed, I Cried, I Fudged My Undies!" CD
- "The Night Santa Went Crazy" on Weird Al Yankovic's "Bad Hair Day" CD

Enjoy! Oh, and Happy Holidays!

'Late

Hilarious South Park Christmas Album
If you want to get into the Christmas spirit, and have a sense of humour, I would definitely reccomend 'Mr. Hanky the Christmas Poo: Early '50s Recording', 'Mr. Hankey's Christmas Classics'. All of the songs are hilarious, especially 'O Holy Night', which is by Cartman, Mr. Garrison's 'Merry F*cking Christmas', 'Dreidel, Dreidel, Dreidel', and 'The Most Offensive Song Ever'.

1. Mr. Hanky the Christmas Poo: Early '50s Recording - 10/10

2. Merry F*cking Christmas - 10/10

3. O Holy Night - 10/10

4. Dead, Dead, Dead - 9/10

5. Carol of the Bells - 8/10

6. The Lonely Jew On Christmas - 9/10

7. I Saw Three Ships - 9/10

8. It Happenned In Sun Valley - 8/10

9. O Tannenbaum - 9/10

10. Christmas Time In Hell - 9/10

11. What The Hell Child Is This? - 9/10

12. Santa Claus is On His Way - 9/10

13. Swiss Colony Beef Log - 8/10

14. Hark the Herald Angels Sing - 9/10

15. Dreidel, Dreidel, Dreidel - 10/10

16. The Most Offensive Song Ever - 10/10

17. We Three Kings - 8/10

18. Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas - 7/10

This album is hilarious, and a must buy for all South Park lovers.

howdy ho kids!
if u loved the mr. hanky christmas classics episode (season three) you'll love this plus theirs more songs.
I love the mr. hankey song and the christmas time in hell too. I play this cd every christmas and u should 2!!!!!!!

Join Mr. Hankey for the funniest Christmas album of them all
I don't know about you, but I try to keep the spirit of South Park Christmas in my heart every day of the year, and nothing keeps the Yule log burning quite like Mr. Hankey's Christmas Classics. Yes, this is an album for all seasons of the year, a collection full of good cheer, good laughs, and of course pooh. Here are eighteen - count 'em, eighteen - South Park Christmas classics to keep your heart warm, your funny bone tickled, and your bowels regular.

Get the party started with the classic early 50s version that started the whole phenomenon, Mr. Hankey the Christmas Pooh. If that doesn't get you in the South Park Christmas spirit, Mr. Garrison's energetic rendition of Merry F'ing Christmas will - unless you're one of those dirty heathens who don't celebrate the season. You'll join Mr. Hat in applauding this modern classic. Let's not forget the true meaning of Christmas, though - close your eyes and listen to Eric Cartman's beautiful version of Oh Holy Night - you can almost hear the angels' uh, something. Juan Swartz and the South Park Children's Choir try to bring you down by pointing out how we will all someday be Dead, Dead, Dead, but leave it to Mr. Mackey to get the eggnog nogging again with his beautiful Carol of the Bells, mmmkay. It's important we don't forget all the little Jewish children (even though Kyle's Mom has a history of ruining Christmas for everyone else), for, as Kyle Broslofski sings, it's hard to be The Lonely Jew on Christmas. For everyone else, though, it's a blast. Heck, even Shelly Marsh takes the time to sing the ditty-like I Saw Three Ships, although Stan and his turd friends don't make it easy for her. Then Stan Marsh and Wendy Testaburger team up to sing It Happened in Sun Valley.

It's time to get serious now, though. Who isn't moved to tears by Adolf Hitler's heartfelt rendition of O Tannenbaum? Even Satan is moved by it, ushering in Christmas Time in Hell; soon the Kennedys, Hitler, Mao Tse-tung, and even Michael Landon are joining in the South Park Christmas spirit. But it's time to return our focus to the reason for the season. Chef emerges to lay down a smooth groove on his beautiful rendition of that beloved Christmas classic, What the Hell Child is This? Of course, you can't have a Christmas album without the song Santa Claus is On His Way, sung the way only Mr. Hankey can sing it. Then Eric Cartman reminds us that Christmas isn't Christmas without a Swiss Colony Beef Log, and he really rocks the house when he decks the halls with boughs of Swiss Colony. At this point, the South Park Children's Choir returns to sing Hark the Herald Angels Sing - they don't sound like angels, I'm afraid. But what of poor Kyle? He's fine, playing Dreidel, Dreidel, Dreidel - this is a great medley featuring the entire Broslofski family along with Eric and Stan. The next track sort of speaks for itself, in a muffled sort of way, as Mr. Hankey and Kenny McCormick team up to sing the Most Offensive Xmas Song Ever. After Mr. Ose sings We Three Kings, Mr. Hankey, Stan, Kyle, and Eric close out the album with perennial favorite Have a Merry Little Christmas.

Obviously, if you are easily offended or have never understood what South Park is all about, you won't enjoy this album. They put that Explicit Lyrics sticker on there for a reason, you know. Those who can't stomach hilarious irreverence in their Christmas celebrations may in fact, after hearing this album, start some kind of anti-South Park campaign, so I would have to implore such people (and you know who you are) from listening to Mr. Hankey's Christmas Classics. Let all the rest of us have our harmless little fun.

Not For The Easily Offended
This CD is hilarious, i admit there are some songs that aren't really funny, but theres always 1 or 2 bad songs on an album (in this one, the 1 bad track is "It happened in sun valley" that was a REALLY bad song). Also if you are easily offended by swearing, raciest remarks (don't worry its always in the interest of humor and always is funny) so if you are so devoted to you religion that you would defend it in any way then don't buy this. But if you like south park or are getting sick of the normal Christmas songs then BUY THIS ALBUM ... Read more

Album Description

Five track EP features her version of 'Silent Night' sung inGaelic under the title of 'Oiche Chiun', plus 'The Celts' and the non-album tracks 'As Baile', ''S Fagaim Mo Bhaile' &'Ebudae'. Standard jewel case. 1994 WEA International release. ... Read more

Reviews (11)

Very good, VERY expensive
Just about anything Enya does will be good, this EP is no exception but it is so expensive.
Oiche Chiun is Silent Night sung in Irish Gaelic by Enya, sounds so much like the English version that if you don't really listen you might not even notice the difference. The next three are also Gaelic and very good, #5 Celts is, I believe, instrumental. Although $18.99 is rather steep for me the buyer will be getting good music unlike so many CD's seem to be these days.
If the price is a problem check your Enya CD's and see if you already have the songs. #1 Oiche Chiun can also be found on the maxi-single by that name and on a single with Only Time. #2 As Baile and #3 's Fagaim No Bhaile (this one is also on the Oiche Chiun maxi)are on Book of Days EP while #4 Ebudae (also on Shepherd Moons CD)and #5 Celts (also on Celts CD)can be found on the Paint the Sky with Stars best of Enya CD.

Beatiful Addition to Your Christmas Collection
I recently found a copy of this CD, and Enya's version of "Silent Night" is among the most beautiful I've ever heard. The song is titled "Oiche Chuin" and is sung in Irish Gaelic. I can only describe it as ethereal.

The next two tracks are B-sides, not available on any of her other CDs, "As Baile" and " 'S Fagaim Mo Bhaile." "As Baile" is another version of "Exile" (which is on her album "Watermark"). The following two tracks, "Ebudae" and "The Celts" are available on previous albums.

The price is a bit steep (the only reason I gave it 4 and not 5 stars), but if you really appreciate diversity and beauty in Christmas music, or if you are a fan of Enya's music, this is a must-have CD.

Angelic, Heavenly version of "Silent Night"
"Oiche Diun" it's called here, and in my opinion, it is the most beautiful "Silent Night" I've heard sung. That's saying something for one of the most popular of Christmas carols. I presume the next two cuts are Christmas songs, but the last two aren't. But this comes out as the most spiritual Enya ever. Yes, it is an EP and not a CD which means it only has 5 songs on it. And yes, it is an import not available in the United States which means you have to pay a high price for it. So if you're looking for a bargain, go to the Dollar Store; but if you're looking for exquisite music not available elsewhere, get this CD.

Not a best buy
Only 5 cuts, total of 16 minutes 45 seconds. One cut is "The Celts" available on other CD's. At over a dollar a minute while the music is good, it is very expensive.

Her most spiritual and sacred sounding recording.
Okay, so "Silent Night" sung in Gaelic is the only true Christmas song here, but all four vocals followed by the instrumental, "The Celts" together build up an intense feeling of beauty of spirit, more concentrated than in any of her full length albums. Yes, it's short, it's an EP, not a full length CD, but it's worth the money if only for the sound of her "Silent Night", and the change of pace of a short album that starts with an exquisite vocal and ends with an instrumental...different and refreshing for Enya. ... Read more

Amazon.com

It's almost impossible to believe it didn't already exist, but now that it does, you can bet the sure-to-go-platinum These Are Special Times will turn up under many a Christmas tree this year (the perfect gift for the person who has everything?). The prolific princess of pop has thrown together a mixture of contemporary and traditional holiday favorites, bordering on too-cute and kitschy only on the intro to "Feliz Navidad." For many, Dion is an acquired taste, but even naysayers may enjoy her rare moments of restraint on a smoky version of "Blue Christmas." "The Prayer," a duet with Andrea Bocelli, is set to become this season's "Time to Say Goodbye," but it will have to battle it out with the R. Kelly duet, "I'm Your Angel," first. --Rebecca Wallwork ... Read more

Reviews (214)

Truly A Maical Christmas Album!
Christmas for along time has been my favorite time of year, and there is nothing like hearing the magical Christmas songs of the season. On this CD, Celine not only gives you those classics, but she delivers new classics with same ferocity as the old.

The album begins with the beautiful traditional classic 'O Holy Night' which in my opinion is one of the hardest songs to sing 'cause I've done it and it ain't the easiest thing to sing! She executes it with such power and grace that anything that I've heard pales in comparison. The only version of worthisness is Mariah Carey's on her 1994 opus, 'Merry Christmas.' Pure vocal beauty and gift. Not only is her voice exceptionaly strong, back that up with a full choir and you've got something special. This song alone is worth purchasing this album!

'Don't Save It All For Christmas Day' Celine in fact wrote part of this song, one of the vary few that she's ever helped co-write on. Here she displays the fine vocal control she has over every word, every note. A POPPY Christmas song, but what can you expect, she is a POP singer.

'Blue Christimas' A great rendintion of this bluesy Christmas tune. Her voice suits the style of this piece perfectly. The viloins work well with this piece, another great song.

Bryan Adams wrote No.4 on this CD, 'Another Year Has Gone By', which is instantly recognizable as comming from his pen. Subtle and compasionate, it shines.

A new tune writtin' for this album, well maybe not this album, but a new tune nevertheless. 'The Magic Of Christmas Day (God Bless Us Everyone)' has the holiday feel through-out. Tubular bells at the beinning open this song, triangles and angel choirs fill the rest of it with Celine's voice filling in the spaces that need it. The Magic is in the package of this song. Classic.

'Ave Maria' I could use one word to describe this song. Gorgeous. I have never heard it done like this. Another extremly hard song to sing, the voice has to be in top shape to pull it off. And she pulls this off effortlessly, as she does with everything else. Schubert would be proud, I'm sure. She does justice to this gorgeous classic.

'Adeste Fideles (O Come All Ye Faithful)' Another great version of a Christmas classic.

I'm not going to talk about every song on this album, there are 16 in total so it would take forever, but the songs I have mentioned above are reason enough to buy this wonderful Christmas album. Five out Five

Celine has it all for a perfect Christmas Gift!
The album has a mix of catchy and lovely tunes for Christmas. It opens with the traditional and majestic O Holy Night, featuring a combination of her gentle voice and the choir. The apt mix of carols, love songs, traditional Christmas music and warmth are all strong reasons why this album is a gem for Christmas. I especially like "Don't Save It All For Christmas Day" (one of the 2 rare songs Celine co-wrote, ever) because the lyrics are so true, topped with Celine's powerful voice at the end of the song. The album also contains 2 beautiful duets: I'm Your Angel and The Prayer which you will surely hold to your heart the moment you hear them. the last 2 tracks are especially lovely, when Celine sang with her whole family of 16, joining their voices in unison wishing us all Feliz Navidad. I can tuly say, every time I listen to this CD, well, These Are Special Times... God bless, and MERRY CHRISTMAS

She sings with her heart
A wonderful Christmas album. Unlike those artists that feel "compelled" to put out a token Christmas album, Celine sincerely believes what she's singing about. Highly recommended.

Easily My Favorite Celine CD
I asked my best friend for a CD this year--I knew Celine Dion had recorded one, but I didn't know what it was called. I just thought it would be nice to have. It came a little before Christmas, and I took it to work. I was drawn in immediately from the first strains of "O Holy Night." This was a phenomenal CD! I loved hearing her record with her family. I have always loved "The Prayer." "The Magic of Christmas Day" was by far my favorite. I plan to try to have my students perform that song next year if at all possible. I love many of Celine's other CD's, but this is tops as far as I am concerned. I suppose I am a sucker for a great Christmas CD!

These Are Special Times (1998)
This is a pretty good holiday album. I got this album only because of I'm Your Angel and The Prayer. Celine performes The Prayer with Italian Opera singer, Andrea Bocelli. This song was played at my grandparents' (on my mother's side) 50th Wedding Anniversary, where they renewed their wedding vows, back on May 14, 2000. 2 1/2 years ago, my grandfather sadly passed away. Everytime I hear this song, all I can see is him sitting in that church, so happy, and everytime I think about that, while listening to this song, I start to cry. It is such a beautiful song and it is a song that I will keep close to my heart forever. I'm Your Angel is performed with R. Kelly. I have also dedicated this to my late grandfather because the words fit perfectly. Buy this album and listen to those two tracks. You will listen to them over and over. ... Read more

Amazon.com

After re-establishing her Latin identity with Mi Tierra, her tribute to Afro-Cuban music, Cuban American singer Gloria Estefan made yet another surprising move, this time exploring the music of Latin America, mostly Colombia. What started as a modest, end-of-the-year holiday album became perhaps the most artistically satisfying album of her career. Aided by Colombian arranger and producer Kike Santander (who also wrote most of the material), Estefan explores vallenato (the title track and "Dulce Amor"), merengue ("Tres Deseos"), currulao, a Colombian rhythm ("Farolito," the highlight of the album) and, of course, salsa ("Nuevo Dia"). For fans of her ballad singing, Estefan also includes the elegant, "Mas Alla." A quirky Gloria Estefan album, yet one of her best. --Fernando Gonzalez ... Read more

Reviews (20)

Gloria's finest recording
The Spanish language is beautiful in song and Gloria has given us ten great ones in this album to enjoy for a lifetime. I've had this one for over four years now and we still listen to it often. I think "Mas Alla"(Beyond) is one of the most beautiful songs I've ever heard. "Tres Deseos" (Three Wishes), "Farolito" (Little Star), and "Dulce Amor" (Sweet Love) are all household favorites from Abriendo Puertas.

You don't have to understand Spanish to love this album, but you just may want to learn the language after listening to it.

An exciting CD that's not to be missed
Gloria's second Spanish release has to be her most exciting (along with 1998's Gloria!) The songs have a very authentic Latin sound. It's almost like she took the last song from Mi Tierra and continued on with the songs on Abriendo Puertas.

The songs have a New Year's and Christmas theme, with messages about starting over, sending good wishes, as well as about just having fun. "Mas Alla" is the softest number, so lovely it brings a tear to your eye. "Farolito" is the most interesting, because of its tribal blend of chanting and rhythmic hand claps.

There are many different Latin and Caribbean styles, which Gloria has written about prior to the lyrics of each song. She tells what styles you'll hear in the particular song, where they come from, and the instruments that are used to get a particular sound.

This one isn't translated like her two other Spanish CD's are. So, even though you may not get the lyrics, the message of loving life is clear throughout the entire CD.

Love this one, too.
Not quite as much as "Mi Terra", but I do like this one a lot. Her voice is beautiful on this one, also. A different kind of variety. I'm glad it bought this. Gloria, más español CDs, por favor.

FANTASTIK AWESOME
This is the best spanish CD EVER I recommed it you wont be dissapointed.

If you need an upper, Abriendo Puertas is for you!
Abriendo Puertas is the second of Gloria's three Spanish CDs, but the last I became familiar with. At first I was disappointed as it seemed less "serious" and "cutting edge" than Mi Tierra or Alma Caribena, but increased familiarity has revealed its considerable charms.

This is a holiday (Christmas and New Years) related album, but not really a Christmas album as such. All the songs are based on Latin dance rhythms and represent the kind of high spirited festival music that is popular at that time of year. This is as much composer/arranger/instrumentalist Kike Santander's album as Gloria's-- he has written 10 relentlessly upbeat, wonderfully arranged songs, inventive and polished to perfection. The details of the songs are quite wonderful, and Gloria's singing is ideal for this idiom.

This is really a great album to put you in a good mood, as well as for appreciating top of the line musicanship. The Gold Star award for the songs must go to "Felicidad", which is just that, and the impossibly infectious "Tres Deseos", (try and play it just once!).

All together, Gloria Estefan's 3 Spanish CD's are a real achievement, and prove that her real talent is in her Latin heritage, and not in the rather ordinary English language albums she is more famous for. ... Read more

Amazon.com

The title doesn't lie, even if it does sounds like a hyperbolic pitchfrom an old late-night cable TV ad. With 36 tracks of various genres spread overtwo discs, Now That's What I Call Christmas might be the best, mosteclectic "value-plus" holiday record ever released, assuming your tastes embracecrooners such as Cole,Crosby, and Como, plus contemporary boybands such as Boyz IIMen, as well as the ubiquitous Britney Spears.

In between there are the sumptuous classics by Bobby Helms, Brenda Lee, the Beach Boys, Elvis, and Burl Ives on disc one, balanced on disc two by morerecent standards, including Bruce Springsteen's live version of "Santa Claus IsComin' to Town" and John and Yoko's "Happy Xmas (War is Over)." You're notobligated to like everything here, but that's why Santa invented the forwardbutton on your CD player. --Martin Keller ... Read more

Reviews (88)

Essential Christmas CD
This CD has a little bit of of everything for everyone. From Bing Crosby to Elvis Presley to Britney Spears and Micheal Bolton. You get two discs, 18 songs on each, 36 songs total. It's a great value for all that you get:
Disc 1's playlist:
1. Nat King Cole - The Christmas Song
2. Bing Crosby - White Christmas
3. Elvis Presley - Blue Christmas
4. Frank Sinatra - Have yourself a Merry Little Christmas
5. Tony Bennett - Winter Wonderland
6. Ella Fitzgerald - Sleigh Ride
7. Dean Martin - Let it Snow!
8. Perry Como - Home for the Holidays
9. Johnny Mathis - The Most Wonderful Time of the Year
10. Burl Ives -A Holly Jolly Christmas
11. Gene Autry - Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer
12. Elmo & Patsy - Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer
13. Brenda Lee- Rockin Around The Christmas Tree
14. Bobby Helmes- Jingle Bell Rock
15. Beach Boys - Little Saint Nick
16. Carpenters - Merry Christmas Darling
17. Kathy Mattea - Christmas Collage
18. Bing Crosby & David Bowie - The Little Drummer Boy

DISC TWO's PLAYLIST:
1. John Lennon & Yoko Ono - Happy Xmas (War is over)
2.Bruce Springsteen - Santa Claus is coming to town
3.Band Aid - Do They Know It's Christmas?
4.Paul McCartney - Wonderful Christmas
5. Micheal Bolton - Our Love is Like a Holiday
6. Harry Connick Jr. - (It must have been) Santa Claus
7. Diana Krall - Jingle Bells
8.Mannheim Steamroller- Away in a Manager
9.Ottmar Liebert- Deck the Halls
10.Gloria Estefan - Love On Layaway
11.Celine Dion- Don't Save it all for Christmas
12.Joe- This Christmas
13.The Isley Brothers - Special Gift
14.The Big Yard Family - All We Need Is Love
15.Britney Spears - My Only Wish (this year)
16.*Msync - Don't Have To Be Alone
17.Luther Vandross - O Come All Ye Faithful
18.Boyz II Men - Silent Night

As you can see, the first CD consists mainly of older classics. The second CD has more modern Christmas songs and artists. And although I am more partial to disc one, both discs are great!! Great album to listen to in the car or at home to get you in the holiday spirit! Highly Recommended!

Thanks for including "Grandma!"
I am so happy that the GRANDMA GOT RUN OVER BY A REINDEER song is on this album. It just wouldn't be complete without it. I remember exactly where I was the first time I heard this song, and everyone I know has some sort of story that they tell when they think of the song, Thanks so much for including it in your collection.

YUCK!!!
This sounds like a great Christmas CD except for the song "Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer" ... I hate this song and refuse to buy any music collection that includes it.

Just what I was looking for.
I was looking for a cd with ALL the great Christmas songs. I even bought a 5 cd set, but quickly found that, even though they were classic songs, they weren't by the classic singers. I got this one for Christmas and it's the complete Christmas collection.

IF YOU DONT HAVE THIS CD...THANK GOD DONT GET IT!
Why would you want to listen to some out of tune various artist its off it would drive you crazy and quickly into the mental hospital my advice is to stay far away from this cd as possible is grabage! ... Read more

Amazon.com

Is the Trans-Siberian Orchestra's Christmas Eve and Other Stories a holiday rock opera? Or perhaps just a holiday prog-rock disc? Or maybe it's New Age? Whatever the case may be, this isn't your typical Christmas album. Filled with electric guitar solos, plenty of synthesized keyboards, a children's choir, and lively drumming, Christmas Eve can only be compared to one other record, the Trans-Siberian Orchestra's other holiday disc, The Christmas Attic. On this CD, angelic vocal solos (on numbers such as "The Prince of Peace") are interspersed with driving instrumentals. Sentimental, occasionally bombastic, but as high-concept as holiday albums can be. --Jason Verlinde ... Read more

Reviews (142)

Brilliant From Start to Finish
From the enchanting cover art right through to the last notes of "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen," the last track, Christmas Eve and Other Stories is a rare delight.

In fact, although this is supposed to be a Christmas album, I find I can listen to it year 'round (as I am right now and it's August 31st).

You probably already know this from reading other reviews, but Trans-Siberian Orchestra (TSO) is the alter ego of Savatage, a mostly heavy metal/progressive rock band whose albums tend to lean toward the "concept" side of creativity, which is to say they're generally quite a few notches above most music these days...and often contain flashes of brilliance not found anywhere else on the planet.

There's a feeling I get every year around Christmastime, and TSO "director" Paul O'Neill (who produces Savatage's albums) captured it exactly on this CD. As a matter of fact, on TSO's web site, O'Neill writes, "I love writing stories and I've always been staggeringly fascinated with Christmas. It's such a magical time of the year. If you're walking down a New York City street around Christmastime and it starts to snow, the potential for magic can be felt in the air. That's what I tried to capture on this record, while bringing a fresh musical treatment to the holiday."

To capture that "magical" feeling on Christmas Eve and Other Stories, O'Neill took mostly traditional Christmas songs and infused them with electric guitar power and energy to create a majestic, emotional, captivating sound that tends to overwhelm me with emotion or awe (such as on the incredible "A Star To Follow" track or in the dynamic "Christmas Eve/Sarajevo 12/24" track, which also appeared on Savatage's Dead Winter Dead CD).

"A Star To Follow" is amazing. Savatage occasionally creates counterpoint/chorus arrangements that truly rise above the norm, such as the title track to The Wake of Magellan, for example. Or "Morphine Child" from their latest CD Poets and Madmen. "A Star To Follow" gives me the chills every time I hear it.

This CD isn't just Christmas tunes put to heavy metal. It's so much more than that. There's a softness and innocence, maybe even a reverence, about these arrangements (like on the delicate classical guitar instrumental "The Silent Nutcracker") -- even when such songs are placed back-to-back against tracks like "A Mad Russian's Christmas," which begins with a plaintive piano melody that's soon punctuated by bone-crushing Metallica-esque power chords.

Another example of one style of music placed like bookends against another is "Prince of Peace" immediately followed by Savatage's "Christmas Eve Sarajevo 12/24," one of the most powerful songs you'll ever hear -- Christmas or otherwise.

I can't say enough about this CD. It's the kind of album that comes along truly once in a lifetime. Even if TSO never tops this performance (The Christmas Attic and Beethoven's Last Night are noble efforts, but they don't hold a candle to this album), they will have served us well by creating Christmas Eve and Other Stories -- one of my favorite CDs of all time.

It's about passion
I've never felt the passion in music that I hear in this work. I'm one of the people who bought this CD for the Sarajevo track, and I quickly became amazed at the entire album. The following year, I was fortunate enough to be able to get the narrated version, and listening to the poem interspersed with the songs makes this even more of a wonderful experience. This album is a must for anyone who truly loves music--not just likes, or likes it a little. If you truly love music, you'll find the originality, the passion, and the love for what they're doing flow through you with every note. Listen to the words, follow the story, feel the journey, and you'll find that this is one of the most important musical experiences there is. And listen to it loud, as if you were at the concert, for that's when the passion shines through the most. What they've done with old Christmas standards revitalizes Christmas music, and gives us a whole new experience to live through.

It rocks!
This is one of my favorite CD's, and you don't have to listen to it just at Christmas. I especially like the instrumental songs, some of the vocals aren't my favorite, but it's still great!

The Spirit of Christmas Renewed!
I really thought that Mannheim Steamroller was fantastic, until I heard TransSiberian Orchestra. A great deal of the music played around the holiday season that I had attributed to MS was actually TSO! I bought all the MS CD's, but could not find the music that prompted me to make the purchase (how embarrassing!).
Now with two holiday CD's, and a new Rock Opera ("Beethoven's Last Night") they cannot be beat! They are even better if you can get a chance to see them; they break into to touring groups, East and West. You never know who might make a guest appearance.
After years of grieving, it took the power of Rock and Orchestra to return my enthusiasm for the holidays. Paul O'Neill, Chris Caffrey, Mark Wood (check out his website for innovative new musical instruments!), thank you, bless you - you gave me something that cannot touched or held, but is as real and true as friendship, love and memories.

Do not be deceived, this CD is a Classic.
Unlike all of the other Christmas artist who try to copy classic Christmas songs the Trans-Siberian Orchestra completely reinvents them. Traditional songs on this CD are out into music unlike any other. The best songs are....wait all of them are good. This is a classic that will be cherished for years. I saw them in concert on December 27, 2003 and was completely blown away by their wonderful performance. Don't be fooled by these bad reviews that say that they are a washed out 80's rocked band. These guys are for real. ... Read more

Album Description

2003 holiday release for the Sinatra-like crooner featuresthe title track backed with four more snow-covered songs,'The Christmas Song', 'Grown-Up Christmas List', 'I'll BeHome For Christmas' & 'White Christmas'. 143Records/Reprise. 2003. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

The Christmas Album to Get!
Love all the five songs and I believe all his renditions were the best versions I heard. He sang with such passion and he has a melodious cool voice that gives the songs such a breezy feel. I particularly love his version of Grown-Up Christmas List, the way he phrased the words was impeccable and soothing. Buy this thing right now, the only complain I have is why only 5 songs? I want to hear more.

Grade: A

5 stars for the 5 songs, 1 star for the price
well,

Michael Buble is a very talented singer,
his voice is amazing for this kind of songs,
and this christmas album is superb, superb, superb.
too bad there's only 5 songs in this album.
though all of those 5 songs are so great,
it's 'almost' unworth it for the price of $12.

but it's a must have for fans.
it's much much better thant totally buble

Great!!
You might think this is crazy but I actually bought this EP after Christmas. All the songs are great. Well arranged superbulously sung. All songs are produced by the legendary David Foster. Make sure you have this album next year and do away with all those mediocre Christmas albums!! ... Read more

Reviews (4)

SANTA, BABY, PLEASE COOK SOME UP MORE!
Barbara Cook's first full-length Christmas CD is a treasure. Her phrasing --- as fine as Mabel Mercer's --- allows for interpretations that are memorable and magical, especially on not-so-traditional tunes as Amy Grant's "Breath of Heaven." This is a simple, intimate recording; no over-orchestrations (thank you, Wally Harper), and a most magnificent a cappella "I Wonder As I Wander." An extra bonus: Babs is joined by the Broadway Inspirational Voices on several tracks.

A Christmas Gem!
Just got Barbara's newest CD...her first Christmas one I believe.
What a gem! Some mixed feelings about some of the arrangements but as a whole a delight to hear! Want to hear more times, so right now, this is a premature rating...but still love Barbara a lot and have seen her 3 times here in San Francisco....I just love her rendition of "Away In A Manger", interweaving both versions of the carol...lovely and so dear! A lot of warmth and feeling in all the selections....some familiar and some not so. Unfortunately, my favorite Christmas song is "O, Holy Night" but have to say I don't care for this arrangement...my own bias...some songs I just like being done very straight.
But who knows!? This might grow on me... The "Silent Night" is exquisite! Very nice arrangement and harmony! Buy this CD and don't wait for next Christmas to listen! Thanks again, Barbara, for a beautiful gift of song for us to enjoy!

Heavenly
This is Barbara Cooks first Christmas CD and I hope it's not her last. As usual, her voice is heavenly, caresssing the lyrics and warming your heart. The big surprise on this set is how fresh these standard Christmas songs sound when perfrmed by Cook. Many Christmas discs can be overly florid and cliche, but not so on this disc. The only jingle bells you'll hear on these songs is in "Winter Woonderlnd" and they are subdued. Barbara Cook and her arranger Wally Harper keep things in a (deceptively) simple and intimate setting. Almost as if she's giving you a personal concert in your living room.

I've always enjoyed Amy Grant's "Breath of Heavn" and was surprised to see it appear on this CD. Cook is somehow able to make it an even more moving experience than Grant. "He's Got The Whole World In His Hands" which starts acapella and grows to include a banjo and a harmonica, harken back to her Atlanta roots. Probably my favorite track is "I Wonder As I Wander" which is sung completely acapella.

I'll be listening to this set for many Christmas' to come. Count your blessings indeed. So far, I count 15.

A Wonderful Christmas Album for Everyone
I just received this Christmas CD by Barbara Cook, her very first Christmas CD. I saw her last weekend in Atlanta for the very first time and now to hear this wonderful mix of Christmas songs is just heavenly. She has a voice that is so very special and delightful. I marvel at it every time I hear it. It has a quality to it that no other female singer has. The songs were chosen very carefully by Ms. Cook and Mr. Harper as I would expect. The selection "He's Got The Whole World In His Hands" is just enchanting, very moving and emotional for me. It is not usually thought of as a Christmas song but it becomes an essential part of this album. Ms. Cook's voice is as clear as if she were in my living room singing to me. This Christmas album is destined to be the one you always reach for and play for your friends, family and guests. I know it will be treasured by me for many many years to come! ... Read more

Reviews (22)

A great CD that's even fun to listen to before/after x-mas!
I love this CD but i just couldn't give it a 5 because some of the songs just weren't my type. Here's how i'd rate each song:
1. What christmas should be- 10/10- Super beat and a great song!
2. Santa Clause Lane- 10/10- i love the tune and everything.
3. Santa Claus is coming to town- 10/10- a great "Hilary twist" on an old favorite.
4. I heard Santa on the radio- 10/10- this song was pretty good as far as the tune.
5. Jingle Bell Rock- 9/10- This song was OK but it's definately not my favorite.
6. When the snow comes down in Tinseltown-9/10- this song was ok but it was kind of slow.
7. sleigh ride-10/10- This song was really good. I enjoyed this.
8. Tell me a story-9/10- This song was good but i don't really like combining rap with Christmas.
9. Last Christmas- 9/10- pretty good but very...s l o w.
10. Same old Christmas- 9/10 pretty good.
11. Wonderful Christmastime- 10/10- a great beat + a great tune= a great song!
Overall this CD was really, really good. My two favorites are 'what christmas should be' and 'santa claus lane'. Keep singing, Hilary!

Great pop Christmas Album
So here it is.... Hilary Duff's Christmas CD. At 1st listen there weren't many songs that enjoyed listening to. By the 2nd time I had listened to it I loved all of them. In fact, I like it so much that it hasn't left my cd player since I bought it 3 weeks ago!

I adore the 1st song, called 'What Christmas Should Be', which is about how the true meaning of Christmas shouldn't be about presents or snow or carols, but should be peace on earth. I think this song was written particularly for Hilary, and it shows in how the song suits her voice. Her voice is gorgeous in this song!
Hilary's duets with Christina Millian, Lil' Romeo and her sister Haylie Duff are surprisingly good. You wouldn't expect Hilary to sound all that great next to the strong singer Christina Millian, yet it does. Lil' Romeo has a style so different to Hilary's, but Lil' Romeo rapping The Night Before Christmas in the song 'Tell Me a Story' along with Duff singing still sounds good.
The down sides to this Christmas CD is Hilary's weak voice in the famous songs 'Jingle Bell Rock' 'Santa Claus Is Coming to Town' and 'Wonderful Christmastime.' It's a shame that she didn't sing these three well-known songs well, because despite an excellent effort for the rest of the album, they seemed to let Hilary down.

Overall, I found it an enjoyable listen that livened my Christmas up. It is naturally a bubble-gum-pop version of Christmas songs, so if that isn't what you like listening to, then this CD is not for you. 4 stars out of 5!!!

very good
A very good cd very well tought out

I never want to visit Santa Claus Lane
When I used to work at a toy store last Christmas, we always had to listen to this cd. I thought it sucked, Hilary Duff can't sing at all! I gotta admit she looks pretty good looking on the cover though...

Pretty good
Believe me... this CD is one of the best X-mas CD that you can buy. Most of the songs are great but i especially enjoy the first one: What Christmas Should Be. The only two drawbacks to this CD are:
1. Hilary's Voice- Hilary's voice is ok but it seemed a little to "mature" for a teenager. If you really want to hear her voice at it's best check out "metamorphosis".
2. Rap- Sure raps cool but combined with christmas music? NO WAY! I can't believe that Hilary would even consider crossing rap with Christmas Music. The rest of this CD is pretty good. THIS CD IS EVEN FUN TO LISTENT TO WHEN CHRISTMAS IS LONG GONE. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Favorite Cartoon
Why aren't these cartoons on DVD yet? If you too love the Animaniacs, go here to help us get them put out on DVD... www.petitiononline.com/toon0001/petition.html

More Faboo Stuff from the Warners
Another fine collection of musical nonsense from the Animaniacs folks. Here the Warners share (?) the stage with other Animaniacs favorites. Pinky shines in his fantastic "Cheese Roll Call" (as Pinky himself would say, "Yummy! NARF!") while Slappy Squirrel at least gets her theme song on. Meanwhile the Warners tackles another "list" song with great aplomb ("The Presidents"), and could that be Yakko actually parodying (gulp) *himself* on "All the Words in the English Language I II & III"? Other highlights include the worldish "Moneky Song", the Mary Tyler Moore parody "Dot's Song", and the two Hollywood songs "Variety Speak" and "At the Big Wrap Party Tonight". There are a few clinkers - "Dot's Quiet Song" isn't very interesting (as a song or a cartoon), and "Multiplication" sounds quite forced. Otherwise, a fine fine collection. Throw it in during your next cocktail party. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Rainy days and Mondays always made Karen Carpenter blue. Maybe sheshould have played her two Christmas records, Christmas Portrait and An Old Fashioned Christmas. Both are combined in this 31-piececollection, a great value for fans of this brother-sister duo who captured the pop airwaves during the early to mid-'70s. A number of good performances mark the collection, which includes songs from their Christmas TV special, numerous cuts backed by full orchestra that prove the duo could extend their pop sensibilities to timeless holiday fare, and singular works such as "Little Altar Boy," a song that Richard Carpenter feels was among his sister's greatest performances. --Martin Keller ... Read more

Reviews (45)

Christmas isn't Christmas without the Carpenters!!!
Since so many people have already reviewed this I will keep my comments short. In one word: MAGNIFICENT! INCREDIBLE! AMAZING! (Ooops, that's more than one word, isn't it...) My family has gone through two sets of these albums on vinyl and I'm on my second set of cassettes. I'm very excited about them finally being on CD. CHRISTMAS PORTRAIT (CD 1) was the Carpenters' first Christmas album, and its awe-inspiring beauty does not let up for even one second. Karen's vocal talents shine for all to hear as do Richard's wonderful gifts of arranging and playing. His "one person chorus" on "O Come, O Come Emmanuel" is a powerful opening. It is an equal match to the beauty of Karen's closing "Ave Maria". AN OLD-FASHIONED CHRISTMAS (CD 2), which was put together after Karen's tragic death, is a wonderful companion to the first. Although the circumstances which made it possible are very sad, this album necessarily gives a greater amount of the spotlight to Richard's genius. His performance of works like "O Holy Night" and excerpts from Tchaikovsky's NUTCRACKER ballet are brilliant examples of his amazing talent. Both of these albums are standards of excellence as to what Christmas albums should be. Even what were less-known works have become staples of the season because of the "Carpenters' touch" they received on these albums. What more can I say other than this: GO GET THESE IMMEDIATELY--IF NOT SOONER!!!

Christmas Perfection
I have wondered for years why the original Carpenters Christmas albums weren't released on cd in their entirety, but now that is no longer. The compilitation that was released, "Christmas Portrait, the special edition," is a superb collection, though woefully lacking some excellent material. A previous review mentioned the Time-Life release "Christmas With The Carpenters," an excellent collection that although was released on two cd's, could have easily been programmed on one. The entire set consists of twenty-three tunes and clocks in at just over an hour. Cd programming allows almost sevienty-eight minutes of information storage.

The Time-Life collection is a showcase of Richard's remix skills, the entire project was remixed, the recent Carpenters Christmas Collection is a release of almost the original mixes.

Karen was recorded at the peak of her career. Richard said that during the recording sessions Karen was so caught up, she loved Christmas music and subsequently too many sides were recorded for the "Portrait" album. We all know that the leftover tracks were used for the "Old Fashioned Christmas" album.

The choice of songs and the arrangements made for timeless classics. Living in a time of Christmas albums by artists that are highly stylized, Richard and Karen recorded standards with traditional arrangments. There has never been such a quality of release of holiday songs and probably never will be again. Karen sounded like she truly was having a ball in the studio, Richard's piano playing was the most energetic ever. Witness "It's Christmas Time" and "Selections From The Nutcracker Suite." Richard is one of the finest piano players in pop music. Enjoy this once in a lifetime release.

Brings tears to my eyes, excellent CD set
To be succinct, this CD set is excellent. Karen Carpenter's voice brings tears to my eyes. It is so sad that she is no longer with us. This CD set will always be a cherished part of my collection.

Simply Put "Top Notch"
Its just simply breath taking to listen to Karen's wonderful voice. It takes me back to my youth. It makes me sad and happy at the same time. These songs are wonderful.... Simply put, "Top Notch for any Christmas Collection."

The best Carpenters album ever!
First, a warning: the song list on Amazon is incorrect and incomplete. The correct list is:

CHRISTMAS PORTRAIT (Their first Christmas disc)
1. O Come, O Come Emmanuel
2. Overture: Deck The Halls/I Saw Three Ships/Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas/God Rest Ye Merry Gentleman/Away In a Manger/What Child Is This?/Carol Of The Bells/O Come All Ye Faithful
3. Christmas Waltz
4. Sleigh Ride
5. It's Christmas Time/Sleep Well, Little Children
6. Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas
7. Santa Claus Is Coming To Town
8. Christmas Song (Chestnuts)
9. Silent Night
10. Jingle Bells
11. First Snowfall/Let It Snow
12. Carol Of The Bells
13. Merry Christmas Darling
14. I'll Be Home For Christmas
15. Christ Is Born
16. Winter WonderLand/Silver Bells/White Christmas
17. Ave Maria

AN OLD FASHIONED CHRISTMAS (Their 2nd Christmas disc)
1. It Came Upon A Midnight Clear
2. Overture: Happy Holiday/The First Noel/March Of The Toys/Little Jesus/I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus/O Little Town Of Bethlehem/In Dulce Jubilo/Gesu Bambino/Angels We Have Heard On High
3. An Old-Fashioned Christmas
4. O Holy Night
5. Home For The Holidays
6. Here Comes Santa Claus/Frosty The Snowman/Rudolph The Red Nosed Reindeer/Good King Wenceslas
7. Little Altar Boy
8. Do You Hear What I Hear?
9. My Favorite Things
10. He Came Here For Me
11. Santa Claus Is Coming To Town
12. What Are You Doing New Year's Eve
13. Selections From "The Nutcracker": Overture Miniature/Dance Of The Sugar Plum Fairy/Trepak/Valse Des Fleurs
14. I Heard The Bells On Christmas Day

The Carpenters released two Christmas albums on LP, "Christmas Portrait" and "An Old Fashioned Christmas". Their first CD release, also called Christmas Portrait, was a combination of the two LPs, mostly the first with some selections from the second. Some songs were given enhanced (or, at least, altered) arrangements, while others were omitted because of space considerations, although most Carpenter fans have undoubtably questioned the choices for years.

"Christmas Collection" is, finally, the original LPs, in their entirely, released together on CD. This is the music the Carpenters were born to make. Their sweet, sometimes corny arrangements and interpretations fit perfectly with these traditional and modern holiday classics. Karen's bright, clear voice adds a freshness to this music that few other singers could offer. Her warm, wholesome, "girl next door" singing brings to mind the image of a snow-covered American Christmas, from the star atop the tree to the rug by the fireplace. Not bad for two 20-somethings from Southern California, as they were when they recorded these songs!

The accompanying orchestral arrangements and layered vocals give this collection an elegant, timeless foundation, if a little overdone sometimes. While the Carpenters (mostly Richard) sometimes overwhelmed his songs with as much production as he could cram into 3 minutes, here he has just the right touch. It's a little unusual to hear Carpenters music with other singers providing background vocals, but they work just fine on this collection.

In the end, the buying decision comes down to Karen's voice. If you've always hated it, you probably don't want this collection. If you've always loved it, either you already own this double-CD set or you have the single CD and/or the LPs and you're wondering whether or not to spend the money. The answer: YES! If you're somewhere in the middle, this music is guaranteed to make you a Carpenters fan, a Christmas music fan, or both. ... Read more

Amazon.com

This Time of Year serves up R&B and jazzy Christmas music from a singer whose style lies between the sophisticated elegance of Tony Bennett and the soulful grit of Dr. John. Tyrell clearly has a ball covering "The Christmas Song" and "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer," the latter featuring the great jazz trumpeter Clark Terry. Though Tyrell has a versatile backing band, the arrangements on these seasoned classics are on the safe side. But he really nails the sentiment of the holiday on the soulful title track. Here, Tyrell showcases his vocal prowess, using color and nuance to underscore the season's good cheer. A little more adventurousness would have lifted the CD above a solid stocking stuffer. --Martin Keller ... Read more

Reviews (13)

THIS TIME OF THE YEAR; A Joy of Joys

If you aren't ready for a really good time, you'd better watch out. Steve Tyrell's THIS TIME OF THE YEAR could blow you away. If you are, grab your copy and run--don't walk--to the nearest CD player. Smiling starts here.

Here is Steve at his rowdy, bluesy, romantic, joyful, swinging best; opening with a rollicking "Santa Claus is Coming To Town." That "rascal" "Rudolph, the Red-nosed Reindeer" never had so much fun, with trumpeter Terry Clark as Santa and Tyrell's son Nick and the whole gang joining in. A terrific production. It should come as no great surprise to anyone if "Rudolph, you red-nosed reindeer" becomes the call of the wild this season.

Tyrell's rendition of the title song, Clyde Otis and Brook Benton's gorgeous "This Time of the Year," already getting a lot of air play last Christmas and bound to be even more popular this year, is sure to be evergreen.

Tyrell swings "Let It Snow" and "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas;" he gets low-down with "Merry Christmas, Baby" and "The Christmas Blues;" he romps joyfully through the snow on "Winter Wonderland" and grabs you by the heartstrings with "What Are You Doing New Year's" and "I'll Be Home For Christmas." And he puts the presents under the tree, where they rightfully belong.

Even sometimes-sulky Mel Torme would have to approve Tyrell's handling of his treasure, "The Christmas Song." And Gene Autry himself must be grinning and tapping his boot at "Here Comes Santa Claus."

As with his two previous albums, A NEW STANDARD and STANDARD TIME, you can count on sparkling arrangements, the most fabulous band, and Steve doing that thing he does with his voice. And the by-now-famous Tyrell smile is evident throughout. You may want to start now and play this album all year.

If Steve Tyrell intends to keep improving with every album he records, in the anticipation inherent in the Christmas season, one can hardly wait to see what he's going to do next. So many standards, so little time. One only hopes he makes dozens of albums and that we all live long enough to hear them.

Merry Christmas, Steve. You sho did treat us nice.

A Commercial Christimas
Finding out about Steve Tyrell through watching the DVD "Father of the Bride" staring Steve Martin, both me & my wife fell in love with his singing. Right away we ordered his CD's "Standard Time" & "A New Standard" from Amazon.com. Both are fun to listen to & with great production showing off Steve's unique singing voice & style (though you can say he is a little bit of this & a little bit of that. I saw comparisons of Tony Bennet, Dr. John, & Tom Watts???). During this Christmas season (2003) we were looking for Christmas standards & therefore bought this CD. This time around Steve Tyrell's normal great production gets in the way; the background music sometimes over takes his singing, or sometimes the jazz loses the main melody. Another problem is that the songs are on the more Commercial side of Christmas missing the "Real Meaning" behind Christmas. I believe only one song deals with the birth of Jesus (though Jesus may of been born around October & December 25 is right after the solstice "the rebirth of light"). The rest of the songs are about Santa Claus or the season in general. Overall the CD is great for a party, background music, or when you want that something different.

Best Christmas CD
I absolutely love Steve Tyrell. His voice is amazing! I started listening to his music last year and have been hooked since! :) Definitely recommend this album. A+++++!

My favorite Christmas album!
This cd is so great, we start playing it in September! It's so romantic . Steve Tyrell really gives a new life to Holiday songs; it's certainly doesn't sound commercial ,it might make you feel like dancing in your living room with your special someone !

This Time Of Year CD review
I couldn't wait to get my hands on this CD! And I was not disappointed one bit! Steve put a totally new sound and feel to these holiday classics! Steve's unique voice combined with the band's expertise sounded magical. It definitely will put anyone in the holiday spirit. It's a must buy! And if you don't have his two other standard CDs - they are a must buy too! Great, great music! ... Read more

Amazon.com

Try to forget the fact that Bing Crosby probably never had to record another song in his life after he immortalized "White Christmas." If you can do that, you'll find plenty more to like in this crooning Christmas collection. There's the Romantic Bing, charming the tinsel right off the tree with "The Christmas Song," and that cure for cabin fever, "Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!" There's the Reverent Bing, solemnly singing "Adeste Fideles." And of course, there's Bing the Showman, belting out "Good King Wenceslas" with a bit of that ole vaudeville shine. But no matter what you're told, "White Christmas" will be the number one reason for sticking this one in your stocking. And who can blame you? It's as timeless now as it was way back when. --Steve Gdula ... Read more

Reviews (21)

The Granddaddy of All Christmas Albums!
This is it! The start of it all. If you're a lover or hater of Christmas albums this is the album to praise/blame for them. Bing Crosby's album originally called "Merry Christmas," now retitled to take advantage of one of the most popular songs of all time, "White Christmas," is what popularized Christmas music as a commercial commodity. As another reviewer stated this is the standard by which all other Christmas music albums are measured.

That being said "White Christmas" features some of Der Bingle's most famous songs- "Mele Kalikimaka" was used in Chevy Chase's movie "Christmas Vacation;" "Jingle Bells," "Santa Claus is Coming to Town," and "Silent Night" can be heard in the movie "A Christmas Story;" and if you have not heard Bing's version of "White Christmas" then chances are you're probably not from planet Earth. This collection contains songs recorded in the 40's and as such reflects that period with backup being provided by the Andrews Sisters and Carol Richards. Also the quality of the recordings is not great, but that is understandable considering their age. However, Bing Crosby was THE voice of Christmas for decades and any Christmas collection without this album would have to be called incomplete.

On a side note: I'm an Irish-American Catholic just like old Bing, but I can't stand "Christmas in Killarney."

Crosby Croons Classic Christmas Carols
Bing Crosby's single of "White Christmas" sold more than 30 million copies worldwide and was the best-selling single in any music category for more than 50 years until 1998 when Elton John's tribute to Princess Diana, "Candle in the Wind," overtook it in a matter of months. However, this does not take into account all those millions of copies of the song that were sold as part of albums such as this 1949 classical collection of Christmas songs from der Bingle. The song was written by Irving Berlin for the Bing Crosby-Fred Astaire film "Holiday Inn," and was first performed by Crosby on his Christmas Day radio show in 1941. Crosby recorded the single in May 1941, "Holiday Inn" came out in August, and on Halloween the song hit #1 and stayed there for 11 weeks. However, the version on this Christmas album was, I believe, recorded in 1947 when Crosby had to return to the studio because the original master had been damaged because of so much use ("White Christmas" made it back into the Top 30 sixteen times, hitting #1 again in both 1945 and 1947).

Of course, there are eleven other songs on this album once you get past the title song, which is, surprisingly, the second track on the album. The other songs cover the entire musical spectrum in terms of Christmas songs. There is "Santa Claus Is Coming to Town" for the kids and "I'll Be Home for Christmas" for the parents. There are religious songs like "Silent Night" and "Adeste Fideles," and secular classics including "Jingle Bells" and "Silver Bells." Crosby even goes ethnic with "Christmas in Killarney" and "Mele Kalikimaka." All of them reflect Crosby's crooning at his best, at a time when his vocal maturity matched his reputation as the premier vocalist of his day. This has been one of the premier Christmas collections for over half-a-century, with good reason.

What is Christmas without Bing?
Bing was an eclectic singer who dabbled extensively in many genres of music: Hawaiian, Irish, cowboy songs and of course, Christmas music, which is showcased here. This is an excellent introduction for those who don't have other Crosby CD's in your collection or who want to hear his "holiday" side. It contains his standard hits which have been recycled time and again on other anthologies. Most Bing-ologists will have all these songs in their collection, some of them many times over. But if you are new to Crosby, this is an acceptable choice and I guarantee that you will become hooked on Bing's magnificent voice. It's quite weak on his earlier work and it does contain some curious omissions, but then again, Bing didn't sing Christmas music much until the early 1940's. Yet there are some stellar songs included as well, like one of personal favorites, "I'll Be Home For Christmas," One of his greatest recordings.

For the novice Crosby-Christmas fan, this set is perfect for several reasons: not only does it give you a fine overview of Bing's career, the sound quality is exceptional. The packaging of the set is excellent and it even includes some nicely written liner notes with a synopsis of Bing's Christmas songs and musical style, as well as an explanation of his tremendous musical impact upon the 20th century.

Other reviewers have complained about the sound quality on this set. I am puzzled at this criticism. I have most of these songs on casette, vinyl and some even on their original 78 and 45 issues. The sound quality here is quite acceptable and good on most tracks. This set will give you many hours of enjoyable listening and help you branch off into other Crosby CD's which includes his lesser-known vocals. Hopefully this collection will convince you that Bing's vocal mastery was unparalled. Then you can sample his earlier, jazz-influenced work during his Columbia years in the early 30's and branch off into his 20's work with the Rhythm Boys. But for the beginning Crosby listener, this is as good a choice as any. I highly recommend this set. Enjoy!

A Truly Wonderful Christmas Album!
I absolutely love listening to Christmas music and I like Bing Crosby and when I listened to someone's Bing Crosby Christmas album which was a 33' vinyl recored I liked it so much I decided I wanted to go and buy it for my collection of Christmas music so I went out and found the CD version of this delightful Christmas album and I love it, all the songs are wonderful but my personal favorites are White Christmas, Christmas in Killarney, and Mele Kalikimaka, I have loved that song ever since hearing it for the first time in National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation starring Chevy Chase. I very greatly recommend this Christmas CD, it very much belongs in a Christmas music collection along with Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Perry Como, Andy Williams, etc!

Bingle Bells
This is a retitled version of Bing Crosby's classic album "Merry Christmas". The songs are in a different order than on the original release, for some reason. But whatever order the songs are in, they are all classics. It doesn't get much better around Christmas time than hearing Der Bingle sing "Silent Night", "Adeste Fideles" and "White Christmas". The CD also includes three duets with the legendary Andrews Sisters, and one duet with the forgotten Carole Richards. One thing I have to question is the inclusion of "Faith of Our Fathers". It's a good song, but it's not a Christmas song. Regardless of that, I highly recommend this CD. ... Read more