Amazon.com

Call him the retro Sinatra, the keeper of the big band flame, the swingin' piano man, but Harry Connick Jr., remains one of New Orleans' treasures. His second Christmas CD is as much a salute to his hometown musical roots as it is to the season.Filled with second-line arrangements and fierce horn charts that could blow all that holiday chill back to Canada, Connick's latest revisits upbeat standards such as "Frosty The Snowman," "Blue Christmas," "Santa Claus Is Coming to Town," and others. Most swing and romp, but the hymns are given the reverential vocal treatment that Connick is known for on his more secular love ballads. Surprises include a quirky arrangement of "Silver Bells," in what sounds all the world like a Henry Mancini score for an action film. And there's four Connick originals that don't quite match the level of the covers, except for what must be the oddest pairing of talents all season, the duet with country singer George Jones on "Nothin' New For the New Year," an inspired tune and performance from two master stylists. There's nothing quite as lasting as the chestnut he penned on his first Christmas CD, "I Pray on Christmas," but for fans, here's a merry Harry N'awlins holiday love fest. --Martin Keller ... Read more

Reviews (59)

Harry gets - Muddled in the Middle
I buy one (at least) Christmas CD a year. And this is the one for 2003. I have a couple of Harry Conick CDs from his early years and thought he might have something to say about Christmas. I am not a fan of loud, big band full throttle Christmas music, but for the firts 9 songs Harry and his band rip up some tasty treats starting off with Frosty the Snowman. His self penned songs do have alot to be desired, where the Happy Elf sounds forced and cloying, the I Come with Love is down right depressing, and he sounds like an ailing Mel Torme. The disc takes a strange turn for songs 10 and 11, I Come with Love and Nature Boy - the arrangements are so discordant, weird and out of place - and take the joyful feeling so well created up to this point right out. The recording picks back up with a nice interpretation of Little Town of Bethlehem and finishes strong - Nothin' New For New Year (Connick original), and Silent Night. Overall, I just cant recommend this CD - Harry would have been better off making it a 14 song set - if you want a great jazz Holiday CD, pick up Holly Cole's - Baby it Cold Outside.

Growing on me, but not quite a 5
I love Harry's style. My most favorite Christmas of all time is Harry's "When My Heart Finds Christmas" and because of that, I can't quite give this CD a 5. It is amazing though. I especailly love Harry's ability to write new Christmas songs. One reviewer (Anita) mentioned how she didn't think the songs were related to Christmas. "I Come With Love" is a very touching song about Jesus, "The Happy Elf" (which my nephews insisted for awhile was "The Happy L") is one that every child will love. At first I was confused as to why "Nature Boy" would appear on a Christmas album, because I just kept thinking about Moulin Rouge and John Leguizamo...Anyway, I listened to it and saw how in the context of a CHRISTmas cd, he was making the song refer to Jesus. My very favorite track is "Jingle Bells" (not on all editions of the CD--I bought mine at Target) Harry sings 7 (I think it's 7) verses and it is VERY fun. I love "Silent Night" and the gospel feel of it. "Frosty the Snowman" is another of my nephew's favorites and it is definitely filled with joy! "Nothin' New for New Years" also helps with the 4 star instead of 5. I have a hard time with country music. Harry's vocals are great, but sorry, George Jones, I just don't like country music. It really is a wonderful Christmas CD. It's less Christmasy feeling and more jazzy feeling than Harry's other Christmas CD. Then again, it is also a more grown up Harry. Unlike Anita's feelings, I think he knows what he is doing...and by the way, the man DOESN'T drink....

Oh, Boy, Harry, Thanks a Lot . . . Really, Man, Thanks . . .
About 30 seconds into Harry's version of "Frosty the Snow Man" I started slamming my head against my George Foreman Grill, just hoping the music would stop.

And it didn't get any better by the time "Blue Christmas" rolled around, because then I started brushing my teeth with an egg-beater.

Merry Christmas, Harry. Keep on torturing us with your merry brand of jubilee, buddy.

Love Harry, Hate the CD
I really like Harry Connick Jr. I have Red Light, Blue Light and love most of the songs. I didn't like any on this CD. His arrangements were strange. I was disappointed but fortunately I received Michael Buble's Let it Snow at the same time, so I had something wonderful to listen to. I'll just stick to Michael from now on.

I'm just a HHHHHHappy Elf !!!!!!!
Thanks to Harry I'm a HAPPY ELF!!! Nice ear candy!! ... Read more

Amazon.com

Sumptuous, soothing, sensual--the heavenly voices of the Mediaeval Baebes continue to enchant the ears with the group's fourth album. These talented Baebes (and their main composer Katharine Blake) borrow lyrical material from medieval prose and find inspiration in medieval music. While most of The Rose comprises original pieces, it also includes a medieval English composition, a 14th century French traditional song, and an Italian lauda. The hypnotic, dulcet voices of this nine-piece collective are mesmerizing a cappella, especially with their fluency in multiple languages, but some of these songs feature accompaniment from strings, zither, recorder, acoustic guitar, percussion, and other instruments. The Mediaeval Bloakes Choir even turn in a supporting appearance on the sublime "Dringo Bell." Despite their name, the Mediaeval Baebes create timeless music that, for many listeners, may help fill in the gap left by the dearly departed Dead Can Dance. --Bryan Reesman ... Read more

Reviews (25)

excellent cd
As a huge fan of the Baebes I absolutely loved this cd. Their voices are wonderful together despite losing three members who left to cocentrate on other things. All the songs are great with I Am Eve, Slay Me Suddenly, and L'Amour De Moi being my favorites. This cd uses no modern instruments as Undrentide did so fans wanting music in true Baebes form should enjoy this very much. I can't wait to hear more from these talented women.

Feast for the ears!
I was introduced to the Baebes by some friends while we were on a road trip to a wedding. I'm not even sure now which CD it was they had in the car, but the music stayed with me and the name definitely caught my attention!

When my copy of The Rose arrived I cranked it up. It was as if angels had dropped by to sing my spirit into heaven. Their voices were distinctive and harmonious, polished, yet still individual.

My personal favorite cut is #7, "There Is No Rose of Swych Vertu". Maybe it was because I got The Rose around Thanksgiving, or maybe not. Somehow I just think this song would be a wonderful part of a Christmas church service. It's exactly the kind of music I would expect from an angelic host. Simply elegant and hauntingly beautiful.

Another positive aspect of this album is its variety. The cuts range in tempo and style from elegant to lively, providing a musical feast for the ears.

If you are not familiar with medieval music, this would be a wonderful introduction. And if you already enjoy music from centuries past, The Rose is definitely a blossom worth plucking!

I Cried - and in a good way!
There are absolutely no words to describe how beautiful this CD is. It's beyond amazing in every way. Sure, the voices may not be good enough to stand alone - but as a group it comes together perfectly. The music is brilliantly arranged and in some places tries to keep very true to the original Medieval sound (something I appreciate as a history major and freak). It's perfect - hypnotic, beautiful and completely engrossing.
Needless to say, this group is extremely refreshing and deserves MUCH more attention that it gets.

Spiriti
This album contains some of the most hauntingly beautiful music I have ever heard, whimsical, delightful, coy, rousing, romantic, longing and deeply spiritual; the kind of music that makes you hold your breath to listen better - if you can breathe at all. The orchestration is richer than on their previous work, and the unholy combination of The Babes and producer John Cale is at an end, thank God.
If we lived in more civilized times, temples would be build for the muses that inspire these marvellous musicians.

THE BEST
These women are amazing. There music is so haunting and magical. How can you not love them. I've listened to all of their cds and plan on buying them as soon as possible. I just love it. It makes me feel like I'm in a mediaval story. It is so great. And it isn't just for renaisance freaks like myself. I also like rock and punk. This is awesome! ... Read more

Reviews (13)

making a joyous sound
Dame Kiri's voice shines in these beautiful sacred pieces, and as her biographer David Fingleton, in his excellent liner notes for this CD points out, that going back to her youth and first voice teacher, who was a Sister of Mercy, church music has always been a part of her repertoire, even though she is mostly noted as an operatic soprano.
Favorites include Gounod's exquisite "O Divine Redeemer" ("Repentir"), the two Mozart pieces, "Laudate Dominum" (from "Vesperae solennes de confessore" KV 339), and "Ave Verum" KV 618, and the luminous performance of Schubert's popular "Ave Maria".

Track # 11, Purcell's "Trumpet Time", is a trumpet solo by Crispian Steele-Perkins, and there is also a good and jolly trumpet on track # 11, Handel's "Let the Bright Seraphim" from "Samson", which is the piece Dame Kiri sang in St. Paul's Cathedral for the Prince and Princess of Wales, at their wedding in 1981, and has become one of her most often requested songs.
This recording was made in 1984, at the All Saints' Church in Tooting, England, and the sound is not great but quite adequate. The boys of the Choir of St. Paul's Cathedral sing like little angels, and the English Chamber Orchestra is led by Barry Rose. Total time is 47:40.
This would make a nice change of pace CD during the Christmas Season, and for fans of this wonderful soprano, hearing her voice is a joy any time of the year.

Uplifting, sublime...a heavenly collection
Te Kanawa's singing gives real joy, and her affinity for the music shines through. She is well accompanied by the English Chamber Orchestra, and some choral and instrumental(Purcell's charming Trumpet Tune) selections help make this beautiful collection more than just a set of arias. She seems to have a great gift for Baroque music, as evidenced also by the shining performance she gave in Handel's Messiah conducted by Sir Georg Solti. A very uplifting CD indeed, and it includes a brief and interesting introduction by David Fingleton who is the author of "Kiri", a biography of Te Kanawa. Here are some of her own words from the CD booklet: "I chose many of the pieces on this recording myself, because they are very beautiful, very melodic, and make people feel good; and if music makes you feel good, well listen to it or sing it!"

Her rendition of Bist du bei mir moves my soul, and her sense of perfection in the Laudate Dominum would have pleased Mozart himself. Aside from her beautiful voice and enthusiasm for this music, she also articulates every phrase just right. It will not come as a surprise to you that she has been singing sacred arias for as long as she remembers, as the CD booklet mentions. Very highly recommended.

An Inspiring and Heartening Compilation
Kiri Te Kanawa voice never fails to inspire me and uplift my spirit. Her rendition of "Ave Maria" is just so beautiful and moving that its effect on the listener can not be expressed in mere words. Kiri's voice and intuitive nature of delivering the inner strength and emotion of each selection on this CD is just inspiring.

A correction
I don't know where this comment belongs, but I have a correction to make:
Track 2 is Laudate Dominum from Vespearae solennes de confesore (K.337) and not Vespeare de Dominica (K.321) as the listing says.
Both Mozart's arias are beautiful, though.

I AM A SIMPLE WOMAN
I LEARNED TO PLAY CHOPSTIX AND THE RIGHT HAND PART OF BLUE MOON FROM MY FATHER WHEN I WAS LITTLE. I LEARNED TO SING FRERE JAQUES FROM HIM TOO AND WE SANG IT TOGETHER IN ROUNDS. I KNOW WHERE MIDDLE C IS ON THE PIANO AND THIS IS THE EXTENT OF WHAT I KNOW ABOUT MUSIC. SO YOU EXPERTS CAN JUST GO TO THE NEXT REVIEW IF YOU LIKE AND I WONT BE OFFENDED. I AM A KNUCKLEHEAD BY YOUR STANDARDS AND I WOULDN'T PAY ATTENTION TO ME EITHER IF I WERE YOU. BUT FOR THE REST OF YOU, LET ME SAY THAT THIS WOMAN'S VOICE IS LIKE NOTHING YOU HAVE EVER HEARD. THE MUSIC SHE CHOSE TO SING FIRST OF ALL, IS BEATUIFUL, JUST BEAUTIFUL. YOU'LL GET GOOSEBUMPS. BUT HER VOICE IS THE THING. IT'S LIKE GOOD COLD SPRING WATER. IT'S CLEAN AND CONFIDENT, NO FUZZY EDGES OR BIG SHOWY SWOOPS. IT'S SOFT AND STRONG AND BIG AND TINY JUST WHEN IT SHOULD BE, I THINK. YOU WILL JUST FIND YOURSELF LISTENING AND SOMETIMES YOU WILL JUST BE HOLDING YOUR BREATH, HARDLY BELIEVING YOUR GOOD LUCK THAT YOU ARE HEARING THIS. I ACTUALLY SHUSHED MY HUSBAND AND TOLD HIM TO STOP TRYING TO TALK TO ME WHEN I FIRST HEARD IT BECAUSE I WAS AFRAID I WOULD MISS SOMETHING. I LOVE A GOOD VOICE AND/OR A GOOD SINGER. THEY AREN'T ALWAYS THE SAME THING. SO I WILL ADD THIS WOMAN AND HER MUSIC TO MY COLLECTION OF FAVORITES THAT INCLUDE THE MUSIC OF JANIS JOPLIN, NINA SIMONE, JONI MITCHELL, CECILIA BARTOLI, MARIAH CAREY, MR. PAVOROTI AND SOME OTHER GOOD GIRLS AND GUYS. AND POUR YOURSELF A GLASS OF WINE THE FIRST GO AROUND... ... Read more

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Hipper now than they ever were in their day, Karen and Richard Carpenter achieved a rare feat: They saw one of their songs become a holiday classic. "Merry Christmas, Darling" sold like mad in the late 1970s and cemented the identity of the song with the band. In the wake of Karen's death, the lyrics became even more poignant, but isn't a good tug on the heartstrings what a lot of holiday songs are all about? The Carpenters' tender cover of "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" is equally touching, their lush vocals layered like warm blankets on a cold December night. Though Christmas Portrait is harshly abbreviated, this version--the Special Edition--features almost 40 songs, including goose-bump giving versions of "Ave Maria" and "O Holy Night" and is definitely the better disc of the two. --Steve Gdula ... Read more

Reviews (33)

A CHRISTMAS CLASSIC
In looking back at this collection of Christmas classics, one can only stand in awe of the production values and talent of Richard Carpenter. While indeed Karen's voice is what we most remember,if you listen to this CD from start to finish, it's almost like watching a Broadway musical. The set open with a collection of medleys of some really wonderful songs, and then just when you're wondering if Karen's going to sing, you hear "Frosted windowpanes" and that incomparable Karen voice lifts you high and takes you on a musical journey unlike any other. Whether she's singing the utterly gorgeous "Little Altar Boy" and "Ave Maria" or the frivolous "Winter Wonderland" and "Santa Claus is Comin to Town," there is no doubt that Karen had one of the most beautiful voices of the 20th century. But don't ignore the vastly creative arrangements and talents of her brother. This CD flows effortlessly and is truly one of the finest Christmas CD's available. What a shame we had to lose Karen so soon. Thank God we have recorded memories of this wonderful singer!

No better album for Christmas!
Christmas Portrait: The Special Edition brings the best of the Carpenters' two holiday albums together on one CD. "Christmas Portrait", the duo's 1978 release, still stands as perhaps the greatest Christmas album ever recorded. Karen's soft, warm voice over a dazzling selection of beautifully arranged Christmas songs, is a perfect cup of hot chocolate for the season. There are just enough standards and new songs to keep everyone happy, while interested. And Richard's choral and orchestral arrangements allow one song to flow gently into the next, creating a symphony of sound that communicates Christmas better than any other CD on the market.
Richard has flawlessly interwoven songs from their second disc "An Old-Fashioned Christmas" as well. The newer songs are beautiful and perfectly arranged, yet feature much less of Karen, understandably. The only mis-step on this extended album is the exclusion of the slow-down ballad version of "Santa Claus is Comin' to Town" - one of the most romantic versions of a children's Christmas song ever attempted. Still, even without this gem, the duo manage to engage the listener with beautiful music that again captures the essence of the season.

A Winner!
Every song on this CD is a winner.
This is the only Christmas CD I can happily listen to year round.
Don't hesitate to buy this one!

A mixed bag.
Like most CDs, this one has a lot of filler to go along with a few good tracks. If you're considering buying it, the decision is really simple: Is the price of the CD worth it to you in order to hear Karen's marvelous voice on a few good arrangements ("Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas", "The Christmas Song", "Merry Christmas, Darling", maybe one or two others) -- even if the rest of the CD is uninspired at best, and some tracks are even embarrassingly bad? For me the answer was yes. But if you want every track to be a winner, you'll probably be disappointed.

Warm Christmas Memories
I grew up with the Carpenters for Christmas. This cd will kindle a flame of hope and joy in every heart! The songs made every holiday (and the anticipation!) warm and tender. Karen Carpenter sings with the sincerity and joy of someone truly in love with the Christmas season. I would recommend this cd to anyone looking to bring back the joy and nostalgia of childhood Christmas, warm fires and cuddling up with your favorite person to revel in the joy of Christmas. ... Read more

Reviews (15)

A Truly Underappreciated Recording; Nyro Near Her Peak
CHRISTMAS AND THE BEADS OF SWEAT was a critical disaster when it was released in 1970, and even as late as the 1990s ROLLING STONE critics described it as Laura Nyro's single worst recording. But the reassesment of her work that followed in the wake of Nyro's death has now placed the album as the equal of Nyro's earlier ELI & THE 13TH CONFESSION and NEW YORK TENDABERRY--something that Nyro fans could have told the critics all along.

In some ways the difficulties in evaluating this recording is understandable. Nyro's ELI and TENDABERRY recordings have a uniquely timeless quality, and it would be difficult for a first-time listener to fix them at any particular year or even decade; SWEAT, however, is very distinctly rooted in the emerging music of the 1970s. But more to the point, the album sounds commercial while it is actually one of the least commercial recordings Nyro ever created: throughout SWEAT, Nyro repeatedly uses pop-music idioms, but she never actually allows them to evolve into anything that could be remotely described as pop music per se, and in the process she repeatedly leaves the listener hanging, waiting for musical phrases that she never creates. The result is a very strange tension between what one expects to hear and what one actually gets.

Of the nine selections on this recording, the two that inevitably take the most heat from critics are "Map to the Treasure" and the title cut "Christmas and the Beads of Sweat;" oddly, however, they both bear a striking similarity to the most celebrated cuts from the recording: "God Standing on the Brown Earth," "Upstairs By A China Lamp," and "Beads of Sweat." In all of these selections, Nyro constantly plays with dymanics, shifting--sometimes gradually, sometimes with jarring rapidity--between loud and soft, fast and slow, at times pounding the piano and pushing her vocals to strident tones, at times dropping into semi-whispered vocals and the barest of bell-like chords. Her approach certainly takes some getting used to, and unless you are prepared to repeatedly listen to this album in order to fully grasp Nyro's odd aesthetic you might do best to leave it alone completely.

But if you are prepared to think critically about what you hear, CHRISTMAS AND THE BEADS OF SWEAT is a truly remarkably and rewarding recording, and it is particularly noteworthy in the way it builds and falls away then rebuilds and falls away again from selection to selection, playing passion against exhaustion and frenzy against thoughtfulness. Nyro is in full control of her voice, her instrument, and her material here; this is the artist very close to the peak of her talents, working talisman-like and ritualistic lyrics into a seamless blend with her kaliedscopic piano-based fusion of funk-folk-freeform. A favorite and strongly recommended.

Midpoint between early Nyro and her '70s experimentation.
Christmas and the Beads of Sweat is one of Laura Nyro's least celebrated albums. More Than a New Discovery (now known as The First Songs after acquisition by Columbia Records) contained her most popular songs; Eli and the Thirteenth Confession was her signature album; and New York Tendaberry stands as her most personal artistic statement. But Christmas and the Beads of Sweat, while taking elements from each of those early albums, is her most consistently enjoyable album, mending accessibility, pop hooks, Eastern influences, discipline and expression into a harmonious whole.

"Upstairs by a Chinese Lamp" is one of Nyro's quietest songs, but unlike her '80s and '90s work (which tends to be almost polite, and a polar opposite to the naked abandon of her '60s work), it is quiet without being timid, and deeply heartfelt, with a dramatic piano keeping the feelings simmering under the surface and woodwinds adding an ethereal beauty. "Beads of Sweat" features Duane Allman on lead guitar; "Up on the Roof" was her only single (ironically, a cover -- this from a songwriter who had the Midas touch in the late '60s whenever somebody covered her songs) to break into the Hot 100 in Billboard, and "Map to the Treasure" and "Been on a Train" are two of Nyro's most compelling compositions. Recording was sharper and less dated than on previous recordings, and Nyro was in fine voice -- no longer swooping so far above her natural range as on Eli and the Thirteenth Confession, but retaining the evocative power of her vocal stylings.

Blasted by critics (Rolling Stone's 1991 album guide called this album the worst of her career), Christmas and the Beads of Sweat is actually a perfect negotiation between early, expressionistic Nyro and Nyro in the '70s -- quiet, assured and soothing. By combining elements of both, Nyro crafted what is to me her best work.

Im Waiting for a Remastered Edition of this one, SONY...
This was and has always been my favorite album of Laura.
Its space, its creativity, and its mood reflect a maturing songwriter.
I am wondering what the holdup is in releasing a deluxe version as has been done with 3 previous albums. -This should have been one of them.

A gift you need to be ready to receive
In the two- or three-dozen reviews I've read, of Laura's work over the span of her career, a couple of themes keep reappearing -- her perpetual inability to enjoy the success with her music that other artists, covering her tunes, did; her inaccessibility to the mainstream listener and, worse, her apparent refusal to cater to those very listeners.

People, people, people... let's, for once, get it right. Laura Nyro, reluctant iconoclast to the end, could only respond effectively to the dictates of her muse. The rest of us were free to come to our own conclusions - in either direction.

If you look at the range of high-end musicians of her period who worked with her, you begin to understand just how unique and richly gifted she truly was. If you want to pick at her, you can say 'her voice was occasionally harsh and strident', or that 'her lyrics read like a diary authored on mescaline and absinthe'. Say what you like, you can't deny that:

1) Laura brought more honest and passion to her work than any but a very small group of her peers.

2) Her musical vocabulary was light years ahead of all but a very small group of her peers, and

3) Her integrity in consciously moving away from 'the biz' leaves no question as to her ultimate motivation - to produce the best, most meaningful music that she could.

4) Enough popular artists enjoyed success with her work to place her well up the list of "songwriters whose work enjoys mass acceptance".

For my part, I cringe every time I hear a L.N. cover by Three Dog Night or Fifth Dimension. It's the audio equivalent of pouring ketsup on Filet Mignon.

Christmas and the Beads of Sweat, more perhaps, than any of her other albums, was an intensely personal experience -- that is, it likely seeped into the fabric of those days when first it was heard, and thereafter allowed the listener to recall in full panorama, years later, every molecule, taste, smell, and emotional nuance of thoses days and times. Across all the album-length works I heard before and since I am totally at a loss to find any recorded work that achieves this effect more potently than "Christmas...".

A songwriter myself, I cried like a baby when she died, and I still miss her to pieces every time I think of her.

Borrowing from one of Laura's peers, as well as one of her few equals... Laura was truly "...the unknown child, so sweet and wild", She was "youth", and she was "too good to waste".

Miss you, baby.

Her suite of songs
The crowning apex of her 3 previous albums. This is a contiuation of New York Tendaberry. Nyro continues writing and singing about "the city", and the intensity is almost more evident. On the original LP or the last four songs on the CD was her Four Seasons Suite: Upstairs By A Chinese Lamp is Spring, "they softly talk in the cool spring night". Map To The Treasure is Summer, "beneath indian summer". Beads Of Sweat is Autumn, "cold jade wind not an angel in the sky". Christmas In My Soul is Winter with its holiday theme and call for peace on earth in a bleak world. It is all there in the words, the music and the atmosphere of each song. Christmas In My Soul is as relevant today as it was 30 years ago, just the characters have changed a bit. Been On a Train was also choreographed as a part of the ballet "Cry" by Alvin Ailey! What better recognition of Laura's power with words and music. ... Read more

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Inspired by impending motherhood and the rediscovery of a favorite children's book--the enchanting Maurice Sendak-illustrated Lullabies and Night Songs, from whence many of these traditional tunes come--Grammy winner Shawn Colvin has made a quietly beautiful recording. Holiday Songs and Lullabies offers cozy comfort like cradling a newborn and nuzzling the sweet-smelling softness of a downy fontanel. These simple, elegant songs outshine any nasty humbug associated with holidays and dark nights, offering sanctuary from the ill temper of the season. Though she was heavy with child at the time of recording, Colvin's sweet, girlish voice is here huskily warmed and enhanced by the fullness of womanly glow, conjuring the innocent simplicity of a safe childhood. Inspired string and horn sections elegantly strengthen piano, organ, acoustic guitar, and lap and pedal-steel. Yet where Colvin's gifts have at times in the past been dimmed by overproduction, here producer, arranger, and keyboard player Doug Petty buoys Colvin's considerable talent without overshadowing or rendering these lovely carols overly precious. --Paige La Grone ... Read more

Reviews (31)

Wonderful Music, As Always
My dad is an avid Shawn Colvin fan, and so I've grown up listening to her in the car, on road trips, while making dinner, and sitting around the living room. I used to be irritated by it (apparently, I would have much rather had been listening to my Alvin and the Chipmunks Christmas cassette tape). But now, I'm the biggest fan of Shawn's songwriting and her music. This CD lulls me to sleep at night after a stressful day, even mid-July, and is a staple around my house at Christmastime. I've never really liked Christmas albums, but this one isn't typical. Be prepared for a pleasant surprise. There's a nice mixture of Christmas and wintery sitting-by-the-fire-in-my-slippers music, as well as some sweet, rare lullabies that showcase Shawn's amazing voice. I love this CD. So will you. Also, check out her other CDs...Steady On, Cover Girl, and A Few Small Repairs are all wonderful CDs, as well.

An Instant Christmas Favorite
After all the hustle and bustle is finished for the day, gather your family around and put this CD on. Shawn's voice combined with the hauntingly beautiful lyrics and music instantly places you in a warm and tranquil state of mind. The whole CD is enjoyable from beginning to end but 'In The Bleak Mid-Winter', 'Rocking' and 'Love Came Down At Christmas' are standouts. I played the CD five times straight after it came in the mail. A beautiful Christmas CD but I plan on listening to it all year.

Songs sung with love
This is indeed a beautiful album. It opens with the traditional "In the Bleak Midwinter" and then goes directly into the classic "Christmas Time Is Here" from "A Charlie Brown Christmas". Another traditional but seldom heard number is "Rocking", and then there's the haunting lullaby, "All Through The Night". "Silent Night" is the one absolute Christmas standard here. And "Close Your Eyes", Brahms Lullaby, is heard from time to time on Christmas CDs, though it isn't truly a Christmas song. However, with Shawn's voice, all of these are good.

Regretfully, I can't put this album into the same category that I have put CDs by other female vocalists such as Judy Collins, Natalie Cole, Anne Murray, or Julie Andrews. But this is a good folksy type classic record to own.

Wow! What a treat!!
I received this Cd as a birthday gift last year. I like this Cd because it has a mixture of Christmas songs along with some lullaby sounds. I like all the tracks including Rocking, Now The Day Is Over, All Through The Night, and Close Your Eyes. Close Your Eyes sounds like something from the Brahms Lullaby. I listened to this Cd a couple of times, and it put me to sleep. I also like the track of All The Pretty Little Horses. I highly recommend this to future parents and children.

Lovely Sleepy music
In the bleak midwinter is beautiful. Shawn does a fantastic job with the soft lullaby sounds. This is a great cuddle by the fire album. ... Read more

Reviews (10)

Christmas Present
A must own for Bruce's unbelievable rendition of "Santa" from a concert at C.W. Post back in '75. The song is so good, it makes you wish it was Christmas every day. By the way, "My Hometown" ain't too bad either.

Christmas in Asbury Park
This single is quintessential to all Springsteen fans! I like "Merry Christmas, Baby" (available on A Very Special Christmas), but this is the best. "Hey, Clarence, have you been good so Santa can get you a new sax? Have y'all been good- or what? Awww, that's not many, you guys are in trouble!" Never mind the cookies and milk, Santa would probably prefer a pizza and root beer!

Truely the Boss!
This is an excellent short cd. I get shivers up and down my spine every time I listen to Santa Claus is Coming to Town - Bruce Style. It is essential Bruce material and features solos by almost all members of the band, another hallmark of Bruce and the E-street band. I was playing this tune in my head all day at work eventhough it is March the temps were in the high 50's herre on the east coast.

A Rock-n-Roll Christmas Classic
Along with John Lennon's "Happy Christmas (War is Over)", this is the best Christmas song of the Rock-n-Roll era. It's lighthearted and fun but, like any live Springsteen tune, it's played with all out spirit and convicton. Bruce's banter with the band and the live audience is so engaging, that by the time the last sleighbell rings, you just want to hear the song over and over. It just wouldn't feel like Christmas without this gem from Bruce and the guys in the E Street Band. Classic.

The best Christmas ever lives on through this cd!
I love this cd so much! I was thrilled to find it (the internet rules!) and although I hadn't heard Bruce's Santa Claus song until this past year, when I did, I was instantly charmed! There is something about it that strikes something in me about all the fun you can hear in the band's performance, and about the memories I now associate with it. Speaking of memories, My Hometown is a beautiful memory song. I love this cd. Buy it! You will too! ... Read more

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Amy Grant's first Christmas album is not only one of the best recordings of her career, it's easily one of the best contemporary Christmas collections available. Grant's Christian beliefs have been incorporated into her music for years, and maybe it's the artistic translation of the depth of her faith that makes these songs so inspiring. "Emmanuel" and "Angels We Have Heard on High" have Grant's vocals soaring, especially on the sustained chorus of the latter.Her country roots show nicely in "Tennessee Christmas," while "Sleigh Ride" is as fun as it is romantic. "Heirlooms" is particularly poignant--maybe not to the point of "hand me a tissue," but it's powerful all the same. A must for fans, and a good holiday addition for those looking for a Christmas record that comes without the cobwebs. --Steve Gdula ... Read more

Reviews (28)

An excellent Christmas album
In my household, listening to the Christmas music of Amy Grant has become a type of annual tradition. Each time the beginning of December rolls around, I check all three of Grant's Christmas albums out of the library and I listen to them for the entire month. I've been doing this for three years now, and I'm not even close to being tired of the music. Honestly, I can't say that I happen to like one of them more than the rest. "A Christmas Album," which was Grant's first Christmas release, has some very original music on it. My favorite songs were "Tennessee Christmas," "Little Town," "Love Has Come," and "Heirlooms." They were all written by Grant; she writes excellent holiday tunes. "Tennessee Christmas" is probably the best song on the CD and one of my favorite Christmas songs (even though I live in Ohio!) simply because it's such a charming, heart-warming song. In fact, the reason why I like Grant's Christmas music so much is not only because it is the style of music that I normally listen to, but also because it is so cheerful and uplifting. I recommend "A Christmas Album" to all fans of both Amy Grant's music and the holiday season. The mixture of an excellent artist with a joyful holiday makes a very powerful combination.

Classic pop Christmas album
Amy Grant's first solo Christmas album has it all. Great songs (perfect mix of sacred and secular), wonderful production, and the incomparable Grant voice. After 12 years, this album still holds up incredibly well. I never tire of listening to it. This effort produced the classics "Tennessee Christmas," "Heirlooms," and "Emmanuel" (words and music by Michael W. Smith). One of my favorite carols is the old favorite "Little Town" ("O Little Town of Bethlehem") set to new music. Instead of ruining this old hymn, the modern arrangement allows you to hear the words (which are terrific) as if for the first time. The best Christmas music is the music you play year after year without tiring. I've been listening to this album since 1983 and I still find it both inspirational and entertaining. Pop this in your CD player along with your other favorites, break out the hot cider, and trim that tree!

amy grant
This is the best Christmas album EVER! it instanty puts u in the Christmas Spirit! I LOVE AMY GRANT!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The classic "Christmas Album" by Amy Grant from 1983
The idea that Amy Grant could put out a great Christmas album is hardly surprising, but the fact that she had a hand in writing four of the songs on this classic 1983 collection should raise some eyebrows. The scope of "A Christmas Album" is laid out in the first three tracks: "Tennessee Christmas," the first of the songs co-written by Grant, the traditional Mendelssohn hymn "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing," and a German carol "Preiset Dem König!" This album was released when Grant was pretty much at her height as a contemporary Christian singer, having won a Grammy for gospel singing the previous year, and that may well explain this rather ambitious album. But you would have to believe that Grant was going to be able to record anything she wants, which makes the eleven tracks she selected all the more interesting.

The other original songs are "Christmas Hymn," "Love Has Come," and "Heirlooms," which blend in just as well with the contemporary Christmas classics "Sleigh Ride" and "The Christmas Song." But the definitive song on this Christmas album is the last track, when Grant pulls out all the stops for an impressive medley of "A Mighty Fortress Is Our God" and "Angels We Have Heard on High," supported by the Hollywood Presbyterian Choir. Having more sedate Christmas songs preceding this finale only makes it a more powerful conclusion to the album. I did a quick check through my Christmas albums and Amy Grant's "A Christmas Album" has more original songs, songs that I have never heard, or songs that do not appear on any other holiday, of any holiday album that I have. If you have not picked up this Christmas album in the twenty years since it was first released, then now would be a good time to add this classic to your music library.

A masterpiece from a wonderful singer
There are some famous oldies here - Hark the herald angels sing, Sleigh ride, The Christmas song and Angels we have heard on high - all of which Amy sings superbly in the traditional style. Little town is actually O little town of Bethlehem given a completely different tune and arrangement. I'm not totally convinced by it but it's nice to hear an old classic done differently.

The outstanding new song is, of course, Tennessee Christmas, which was written by Amy and has since been covered by Alabama, Steve Wariner, Lee Greenwood, B J Thomas, Bill Gaither and Porter Wagoner among others. Other notable songs here are Emmanuel, Christmas hymn, Love has come and Heirlooms.

This is an album that gets better with each listen and it's a classic. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Talk about your gifts of Christmas past, The Christmas Collection is a must-have for any Sinatra-phile, right down to its family photos and one priceless shot of Sinatra swinging a golf club next to the tree wearing a Santa suit! Complete with four previously unreleased tracks (some from live TV specials) -- including two with Bing Crosby ("The Christmas Song" and "White Christmas"), the 18-song collection surveys Sinatra's holiday output and its effects are often chilling. Listening to him glide soulfully through Jimmy Webb's melancholy but romantic "What Ever Happened to Christmas?" or hearing him do his immaculate phrasing on "Silent Night" when he was visibly frail and aging in 1991 are close encounters of a Sinatra kind that are rarely captured on one album. There's also a delightful "The Twelve Days of Christmas" sung with his kids Nancy and Frank, Jr., from their 1969 record The Sinatra Family Wish You A Merry Christmas and insightful and intimate liner notes by James Ritz, not to mention those magical orchestral arrangements. Here's a five-star package to remind us that it's still Frank's world--we just rent a stable in it. Highly recommended. --Martin Keller ... Read more

Album Description

Includes 'Medley: Mary's Boy Child/ Oh My Lord', 'Auld Lang Syne', 'Hansa', 'Christmas Medley: Silent Night, Holy Night/Snow Falls Over The Ground/ Hear Ye The Message/ Sweet Bells', etc. 16 tracks total. 1986 release. NOTE - the title comes from the fact that two of the tracks are medleys - technically they perform 20 songs (or at least portions of 20). ... Read more

Reviews (6)

What a disappointment!
With Boney M.'s big selling Christmas album from 1981, producer Frank Farian recorded six new Christmas songs with Liz Mitchell and Reggie Tsiboe (who'd replaced dancer Bobby Farrell in 1982) in the summer of 1984; they were, however, only released at the time on a South African LP, but when Boney M. had split up in 1986, Farian wanted to keep the kettle boiling and dug out these disappointingly mediocre recordings, remixed the whole 1981 album but two songs, and released the whole mess in November 1986. And the result is awful! Get the original "Christmas Album" instead (it is available on CD) when you want to get in a Christmas mood, this CD sounds as supermarket muzak ...

Absolutely The Best
I first heard of Boney M this past year when a local radio station was playing Mary's Boy Child. It was the best Christmas song I have ever heard. I do not like much Christmas music, but Boney M is the Exception every song on the album is a winner. they are very upbeat and their harmony is great.

20 Greatest Christmas Songs
I looked for Boney-m Christmas music for years, after hearing the "Mary's Boy Child" medley once on radio. Now that I've found it, I listen to it daily. I love the sound. Thank you, Boney-m, wherever you are.

a great CD!
This is such a great CD, I listen to it at all times of the year. The harmonies are well done and make the music distinct and enjoyable to listen to. Some songs are catchy and uplifting, others are peaceful and sentimental. This CD always puts me in the Christmas spirit - I can't imagine Christmas without it!

Very strong voices and spine-chilling harmony.
I happened to hear a sound bite from this CD on the radio - what an amazing sound! Some songs are rendered in a somewhat "calypso-style", which is generally not my favorite style, yet this has become my favorite Christmas album. You will love this music. ... Read more

Amazon.com

You've watched them on TV and followed them in the media. Now six of the American Idol winners perform 10 of the season's holiday best. American Idol: The Great Holiday Classics is a bona fide AI songfest for Christmas, featuring Clay Aiken, Rueben Studdard, Tamyra Gray, Kimberly Locke, Justin Guarni and Christina Christian. With two tunes featuring the entire ensemble singing "O Come, All Ye Faithful" and "Santa Claus Is Coming to Town," two duets, and a couple of cuts by Kelly Clarkson, including "My Grown Up Christmas List," this is a crowd pleaser arranged and lushly orchestrated for fans of the show and fine mainstream singing. The real stars seem to shine though on Christian's playful and seductive "Winter Wonderland" and Studdard's soulful pipes on "This Christmas." Overall it's a rewarding set that's almost too perfect. It seems to beg for a little levity a la William Hung. --Martin Keller ... Read more

Reviews (166)

A Slightly Merry Christmas
As is custom with these Idol compilation albums, my hopes are too high and I get let down. But anyway...
The First Noel - Clay Aiken: I'm a HUGE Clay fan and he didn't disappoint...his voice was rather excellent here, though he got kinda gypped on the song choice. Oh Holy Night would have been PERFECT for him.

Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas - Ruben/Tamyra: Meh. I expected a better vocal performance from Ruben...after all, he's the supposed winner from this season. Tamyra has a beautiful voice, though, so it's worth hearing.

O Come All Ye Faithful - Everyone: It's pretty good, they do a nice a capella version.

Silent Night - Tamyra Gray: Her voice is still amazing, though she kind of overdoes it toward the end. This is a really serene and peaceful song and she turns it into a Whitney Houston pwoer ballad. Not that her voice can't do that, but it's not right for the song.

Silver Bells - Clay/Kimberley: It's cute, but you can SOO tell they recorded it separately. I wish Kimberley had used more of her voice though, she's totally holding back.

Santa Claus Is Coming To Town - Everyone: It's painful. I really just can't stand listening to it. Sorry.

The Christmas Song - Kimberley Locke: She does an excellent job. Her voice is impeccable and she hits the note on "fly" toward the end so perfectly it gave me chills the first time I heard it.

I'll Be Home For Christmas - Justin Guarini: I was surprised by Justin, because he did a much better job than I would have excepted. That being said, I can only take about 2 minutes of it, which is okay, because the song is only that long.

Winter Wonderland - Christina Christian: I think she was trying to sound cute/sexy and she just...failed. She wound up sounding like a little kid. Not a fan of it.

This Christmas - Ruben Studdard: It grated on me after a while, though I gave it a fair shot. It just wasn't my kind of song, I guess.

Oh Holy Night - Kelly Clarkson: She does a good job, but the backup choir is kind of, well, strange. That's the only way I know to describe it. However, her voice is gorgeous and kinda makes it worth it.

My Grown-Up Christmas List - Kelly: Yeah. I love this song. And she does an amazing rendition of it. Yay for Kelly. A big non-yay for this being a separate CD. I find it kind of annoying to have to switch CDs to hear two little songs.

If you like Christmas music, you'll like it. There has been better, but there has also been much worse, and it's worth it.

Hits and Misses
I absolutely loved some of this CD. The rest was pretty good, but nothing worthy of thunderous applause. Clay Aiken is his usual self on The First Noel, caressing the notes with beautiful runs and ringing through with a very pure tenor voice. Kelly Clarkson is also her usual self: a little bit breathy, but amazing range, and a very listenable sound. Kimberly Locke is true to her form as a powerful, soulful alto, and she makes sultry hits out of christmas songs. Tamyra Gray was excellent on Silent Night, as usual. The group as a whole is great on O Come, All Ye Faithful, forming amazing chords, and (to my great liking) doing it a capella.

But what was wrong with the CD? Christina Christian isn't spectacular, and its obvious why she wasn't in the top 4 of AI. Ruben Studdard, while he is officially an American Idol, will never make it to my list of good singers. His voice started raspy and got worse. He is very easy to identify on this CD, because he has a very strained voice, and he's lost some of the range he started with.

The one thing that saved the rest was that Nikki McKibbon was nowhere to be seen on this CD, and that's something to applaud for!

great mix of voices
this CD is very good... its not perfect... but its good...

first noel- 5/5 clay sounds great singing anything... just great... cant wait until his christmas cd comes out this christmas

Have yourself a merry little christmas 3/5 - i personally think its a little boring... not my favourite song

O Come, all ye fathful- 5/5 i think the vocals r amazing... its one of the only songs these days that r not overproduced

silent night- 5/5 i've always been a fan of tamyra... her voice sounded amazing as usual...

silver bells- 4.5/5 i love both clay and kelly but its not my favourite song... although their voices sounded great

santa clause is coming to town- 4.5/5 great upbeat rendition of the song...very enjoyable to listen to

the christmas song- 5/5 kim sounded amazing... its defintely one of the greatest christmas songs of all time

i'll be home to christmas- 3/5 i've never been a fan of justins... it wasnt as good as the others

winter wonderland- 2.5/5 christinas voice doesnt sound as good as it usually does... nothing special about it...

this christmas- 5/5 i think this is a great song and ruben did a great job of it...

o holy night- 4.5/5 kellys voice is great and she sounded great

my grown up christmas list- 6/5 I LOVE THIS SONG!!! easily the best of the album... im actually a clay fan.. i'd usually be giving clay the highest but this song is AWESOME!!! and kelly sounded AWESOME!!!

the only thing that annoys me about this cd is that they split kelly and the rest of the lot... u have to change the cd to hear kelly...

Fabulous! I want more!
This CD is awesome. I love it so much that I listen to it even if it isn't the holidays. The best song is Silent Night. Tamyra Gray rocks!

Clarkson outshines them all !
This a great Christmas Cd.The best I've ever had.Kelly Clarkson, Tamyra Gray, and Kimberly Locke are FANTASTIC!Clay and Ruben are boring and Christina and Justin are just average.The one who makes this CD Great is Clarkson, with her own bonus Cd that includes two tracks,Oh Holy Night and My Growen-Up Christmas List ( which wen't to number 17 on the Charts in December).She's just Great!I f your are an American Idol fan this is a MUST HAVE for the holidays! ... Read more

Amazon.com

Christmas is the season for whipping out those holiday-specific standard recordings. This splendid gift by Chanticleer should top the list, for one will never tire of this a cappella choir's interpretations. With selections spanning the last five centuries of Latin, German, English, Spanish, and French festive fare, this recording exemplifies the sacrifice of the ego to the higher form of choral sound. Jacob Handl's "Mirabile Mysterium" takes you on a trip into the chromatic wonderlands, where you temporarily lose tonal balance. Victoria's eerie and dissonant "O Magnum Mysterium" treats us to rich voices swelling out of one organic whole. The phenomenal blend and perfect intonation elevate this recording above others in its category. --Barbara Eisner Bayer ... Read more

Reviews (9)

Breathtaking!
I simply don't have the words to describe the sublimity of this CD. Breathtaking? Sublime? I'm not sure words have been invented for it.

It was my first Chanticleer CD, recommended by a music club, and it certainly hasn't been my last, but it's still my favorite. I love it so much that I listen to it year-round--even in the heat of summer, when I put on this CD, it's Christmastime to me by the end of "Es ist ein Ros".

The voices are simply amazing. It sounds like angels singing. I think part of the haunting, resounding sound that sets this CD apart from other choral CDs (and even from other Chanticleer ones) is that it was recorded in a cathedral, so there are some amazing acoustics. I don't know all that much about music theory, so I'm sure my words seem amateurish and maybe a little silly, but this is a truly glorious CD.

The best of Chanticleer's Christmas CDs
The 12 voices of Chanticleer (the only full-time professional choir in America) are justly famous for their exquisite tone and range, both vocally and stylistically. 12 men, but nothing is missing. The first two tracks, Es ist Ein Ros by Preatorius and the famous O Magnum Mysterium of Tomas Victoria are absolute gems -- as well as studies in perfection of choral tone and balance.

The repertoire here runs from the early Renaissance (Josquin's O Virgo Virginum) to the more well-known 18th and 19th centuries (including the purest performance of Stille Nacht available) thru the American colonies (Billings' A Virgin Unspotted) up to the 20th century. This latter time period includes a marvelous little gem, Noel Canon, and a surprisingly lyrical composition by Charles Ives. Jennings (the director of the group) has chosen the original Holst version of In the Bleak Mid-winter (as opposed to the Harold Darke setting, which has become more popular over the last several years). This performance of the Holst is simply impossible to improve upon.

Defintely one of my half-dozen picks for a desert-island Christmas CD. Highly recommended.

A Masterpiece of Vocal Style and Intonation
Chanticleer's CD entitled "Sing We Christmas" is the best Christmas music I have ever heard. The intonation is perfect and subtle. The dynamics and the phrasing are powerful, cogent, and vibrant. My favorite piece on this CD is "Glory To The Newborn King," a multi-movement masterpiece that highlights the exquiste phrasing of Eric Alatorre, the group's bass. The countertenors are clear as bells or sweet as angels, or striking as flutes, as the music dictates. There are pieces on here that represent many cultures and languages.

The group sings as one, in perfect balance. ALL of the songs on here are outstanding.

I have never heard any Christmas music better than Chanticleer's "Sing We Christmas." To brighten anyone's Holiday Season, I recommend this glorious masterpiece.

Reaffirming the glory of the a cappella choir.
Sing We Christmas is a terrific CD for those who like their Christmas music to have a touch of mystery and mysticism. The exquisite versions of "Hier Ist Ein Ros' Entsprungen" and "In Dulci Jubilo" alone are worth the price of the CD, but there are also many fascinating rarities, including an obscure (but very melodic) Christmas carol by Charles Ives and a honey-sweet set of spirituals. The twelve voices of Chanticleer reaffirm the beauty of unaccompanied, classically trained voices raised together in song. Playing this CD is enough to make any Christmas special.

Essential Christmas Listening
I could quite likely make it through the Christmas season with only this CD. Chanticleer is an ensemble that sets the highest standards for itself, in terms both of performance and production, and lives up to them with every album. This album presents a variety of languages, cultures, and time periods (Renaissance to American Gospel) and Chanticleer switches seamlessly from style to style, often in the same piece.

The vocal sound and ensemble are unparalleled by any other group I've heard. Every line is clear and beautiful, from the bass up through the soaring countertenor voices. While there are occaisonally soloists, there really are no stars in this album - it is a performance by the entire group. The arrangements are also very creative, such as Silent Night with 3 verses, each in a different language, and In Dulci Jubilo with 4 verses, each by a different arranger.

The bottom line, however, is the music itself. It doesn't matter how many different styles will fit on one album if the end result is musically lacking. That is not a concern here - music is first and foremost, and this album rises well above a densely-packed field of Christmas records. ... Read more

Amazon.com

John Denver's folk music couldn't hide the fact that he was a deeply spiritual man. The reverence with which he imbues Rocky Mt. Christmas is equally obvious, even when the songs have a more secular theme. The standards like "What Child Is This" and "Silent Night" are moving pieces of inspiration.However, "Please Daddy (Don't Get Drunk This Christmas)" is a painful inclusion, whether it's intended to be autobiographical or not. But hey, holiday memories aren't always happy ones. "Aspenglow" is Denver's tribute to his beloved Colorado, while his decision to throw in "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" seems to have been a perfunctory one. It's forgivable, though, especially after hearing his charm-laden "Christmas Song." --Steve Gdula ... Read more

Reviews (22)

Makes even "Jingle Bells" an emotional experience.
This is a definitive Christmas album, all that such an album should be with several familiar favorites and several less heard or new ones.

John Denver bridges the pop-folk-country boundaries and gives us good doses of each.

He opens with "Aspenglow", as typical Denver as you can get, and goes on with some familiar songs of the season, but also surprises us with new material. "Please Daddy, Don't Get Drunk This Christmas" delivered in a strong country manner certainly isn't something you'll find on your typical Christmas album. The way it's delivered, it sounds almost autobiographical, and it sure is a song to make a person think.

His original, "A Child Like You", is a real standout. Oh yes, that "Jingle Bells" delivered as an emotional, nostalgic ballad...

Trust me, this is a Christmas CD you should have.

Pure
I don't care how many of my friends laugh at me. I grew up with this Christmas album, so it is an integral part of all my Christmas celebrations. I cannot have a Christmas without "Please, Daddy, don't get drunk this Christmas" making the atmosphere cheerful and festive. In all seriousness, this is my favourite Christmas album. John Denver's voice is pure, sincere, and beautiful, and his careful treatment of all the traditional Christmas tunes, as well as his own, is superb and smooth. I become choked up every year the first time I play this album "Aspenglow" is such a sweet song, and along with standards like "O, Holy Night" Denver is at his best. It may not be popular or fashionable to like John Denver, but I proudly admit to owning and playing this album, and I am looking forward to Christmas if for no other reason than to get to play this spectacular album again!

Why does his record label hate John Denver?
Why would you put non Christmas songs on a CD? Have you read the liner notes to Spirit or An Evening with John Denver? He was such an important voice in American music, and his record company treats him so poorly. The liner notes are so poor and so dumb that it is hard for me to remember that Denver changed the face of music in his time. I just don't get it. Can someone get it together and treat the poor guy with some respect?

A Masterpiece
Despite the criticism from many, "Please Daddy..." is the reason I love this album. I grew up with my parents playing Denver year-round, but I always loved this album and long for that one song. As an adult, it seems "Please Daddy..." is more somber than its melody would imply, but it is still a classic to me. This album is such a far cry from the typical, syrupy vocals that the flavor-of-the-month pop stars put out year after year. This alone make the album a must-have.

John Denver's perpetual and beautiful Christmas gift to us
If you have ever heard John Denver, you know the clear beauty, joy, and wonder in his voice. Christmas music may be the best vehicle ever to highlight his amazing gift. We have been listening to this CD since it was an LP - and have NEVER tired of it. When the simplicity of the Christmas message is combined with the beauty and simplicity of John Denver's musical interpretation of the Christmas music, the season becomes that much more special. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Ally McBeal has dominated television for three years, so why not a Christmas album for fans who number 20 million or more? Truth be told, this is really a Vonda Shepard record (she's Ally's TV singing voice), with a little help from the McBeal cast, including Ally (née Calista Flockhart), who successfully tries on Eartha Kitt's silly, sassy, seductive "Santa Baby." With 14 tracks and Macy Gray's distinctive "Winter Wonderland" included, the album covers lots of turf, as Shepard and company cover hymns and carols that are sparsely arranged and appealing for their soulful simplicity. Shepard's soprano talent continues to reveal its many riches. Here's a singer who's at home in a gut-bucket blues tune such as "Please Come Home for Christmas" and strolling down Broadway, joyfully swinging on "The Man with the Bag." Additional surprises include Shepard's duet with Robert Downey Jr. on "White Christmas" and Joni Mitchell's "River." Recommended. --Martin Keller ... Read more

Reviews (55)

Excellent compilation
I'm a big fan of Vonda Shepard, dating back to when I first heard her singing the Ally McBeal title theme. After just a bit of searching to find other music that she had done, I bought up virtually the entire library of Vonda Shepard releases (at the time that was "The Radical Light," my personal favorite: "It's Good Eve" and the self-titled "Vonda Shepard").
Thankfully, once Ally McBeal got very popular, a 'soundtrack' from the show was released, which offered up the music that Vonda Shepard and the cast of Ally McBeal (including the also very talented Jane Krakowski and Lisa Nicole Carson) had been singing. Successful sales of that original soundtrack led to several other soundtrack and compilation CDs from the show, including this great CD.
Well, this particular soundtrack is a compilation of Christmas and holiday music from the Ally McBeal show, including several pieces that came late in the shows life (two songs with Robert Downey, Jr. providing vocals).
Vonda Shepards work on this CD has her at the top of her game. Her version of "The Man with the Bag" is just such a happy and jolly holiday tune, you can't help yourself from perking up just listening to it.
Jane Krakowski's version of "I saw Mommy kissing Santa Claus" brings out that hint of naughtiness that was ever present in her portrayal of Ally's man hungry secretary on the show.
Macy Gray's "Winter Wonderland," and Lisa Nicole Carson's "Santa Claus got stuck in my chimney" are both soulful and perfectly bluesy.
The surprise of the CD is Robert Downey, Jr.'s well done "River", which alone is worth the price of the CD.
Over all a CD that will take you through the range of Holiday feelings: joyful and perky happiness, bluesy and reflective thoughts, and playful naughtiness. A great holiday CD -- not just for fans of the Ally McBeal show.

U won't be alone on Christmas
The third cd in the Ally series of music, it brings me a lot of joy to hear about this latest release. It's a great cd. The voices of Flockheart, Downey and Lisa Nicole Carson together with Macy Gray and Vonda Shepard unite for a holiday cd that is a must have for all fans of the show and of the holidays. I especially loved the episode feauturing the suprising vocal abilities of Robert Downey Jr. David E Kelley has done a marvelous job with the show and the cd producers are great at this compilations. I hope a 4th cd comes out soon and i hope they get other songs that are essential to the show for instance Barry White's hit "My First, my Last My Everything " with Barry's voice and Al Green's "Let's Get Together " and finally O'Sullivan's "Alone Again Naturally " Enjoy the cd

Merry Christmas from Ally & Friends
That's what this album really is - the show's gift to the audience. Who can forget the shy, embarrassed Ally with the sexy rendition of "Santa Baby" or the snow-covered streets in the episodes with Robert Downey, Jr. "White Christmas" was unexpectedly filled with pathos while "River" is an almost last hurrah. A few other artists appear but once again, Vonda Shepard saves the day. She carries the album just as she carries the show. Have yourself a Merry, Merry Christmas and buy this CD for someone you love...or for yourself.

Have Yourself A Vonda Little Christmas
Some great holiday music culled from multiple seasons of Fox's Ally McBeal. The terrific part is, it will remind fans of Ally of the moments past, but it also stands quite nicely as a work on its own.

Many of the highlights are traditional standards such as LET IT SNOW and HAVE YOURSELF A MERRY LITTLE CHRISTMAS. Much of the music is performed by legal bar superstar Vonda Shepard. There are contributions from a number of her Ally castmates including Calista(Ally), Jane(Elaine), and Robert(Larry).

A great variety of music, too. Jane K really has a lot of fun with RUN, RUN RUDOLPH and I SAW MOMMY KISSING SANTA CLAUS. Calista vamps it up with SANTA BABY. Meanwhile, Vonda really puts it all out there on the Carpenter's WHAT ARE YOU DOING NEW YEAR'S EVE.

Whether or not you've followed the show, this is a fun holiday CD to add to your seasonal selections.

Holiday bliss!
This album is a composite of all the holiday emotions, it covers the spectrum. Downey is amazing and stands out above all else. I was blown away by his performances especially "River." It is truly a Holiday surprise! ... Read more

Amazon.com

Everybody's favorite precocious sprite of a soprano comes out with her third album in Dream a Dream. It's only been two years since Charlotte Church's smash debut, Voice of an Angel, but that's a big chunk of the Welsh singer's life span so far. This latest is basically a Christmas album, so full of festive cheer you'd never guess it was recorded in the summer. Even the glummest of moods will disappear when you hear Charlotte's infectious take on chestnuts such as "Winter Wonderland" and "Little Drummer Boy" (and having the London Symphony Orchestra as your backup band doesn't hurt either). And on top of that is a really special treat: the title song (borrowing an unforgettable classical melody) which blends Church's soaring vocals with the tender voice of young country prodigy Billy Gilman. --Sarah Chin ... Read more

Reviews (119)

Charlotte triumphs!
I am going to take the other nine Christmas CD's that I have in my collection, pack them up and send them to my favorite charity. Then I am going to put this offering by Charlotte Church into my disk changer...and leave it there.

"dream a dream", the third offering by the remarkable Charlotte Church is an absolutely luminous collection of well-known (and not so well-known) carols and songs. But beyond being just another Christmas CD, this one just happens to be performed by what some people believe is the most beautiful voice in the world today.

My favorite track on the CD (so far) is "Draw Tua Bethlehem", sung in Welsh and English and showcasing the remarkable growth her voice has undergone in power and color in the past two years. However, Charlotte is now able to employ a wide variety of vocal styles, ranging from the angelic "When a Child is Born", to the triumphant climax of songs like "Joy to the World". She also performs a truly astonishing rendition of "Ding Dong Merrily On High", and a touching version of "Gabriel's Message" - with only a harp as backup.

"dream a dream" is by far the best work Charlotte has recorded so far. If you buy one Christmas CD in the next ten years, this should be the one. Thank you, Charlotte!

A world class performance, Charlotte at her very best!!
When one thinks of Charlotte Church one also thinks of the opening lyrics to the ancient and much revered Greensleeves,--"What Child is This?" Who is this young lady? Simply put, Ms Church is the finest teenage soprano in the world and Greensleeves (What Child is This?) is one of the songs included on her latest album, "Dream a Dream", released on October 21, 2000 by Sony Classical and soon to be certified Gold perhaps breaking all previous sales records. "Dream a Dream" is the astonishing follow up to her previous two albums "Voice of an Angel" now certified double Platinum by Sony Classical and the self titled Gold album "Charlotte Church." Truly, the sweetest teenage voice on the planet, it's difficult to believe this young lady is only fourteen.

Ms Church continues her tradition for excellence with this latest release. More than just another Christmas album, "Dream a Dream" is a mixture of the ancient and new, spiritual and contemporary, Pop and traditional. Ms Church's crystalline pure voice accompanied by the London Symphony Orchestra carries one to heavenly heights with the greatest of ease. It's a real delight to listen to this latest work by Ms Church and it will be one I'll be listening to long after the passing of the Season of Christ.

My favorite's on the album include these moments: Rhodri Davies' harp accompaniment on the beautiful Ave Maria is one of the finest ever heard, this pairing of harp and voice is nothing short of one of the finest moments in music history. Charlotte's "child like voice" in O Tannenbaum conjures forth images of Christmas settled and celebrated around the Christmas Tree by millions of children around the world. The only all a cappella song on the album is "Lo! How A Rose E'er Blooming". Dating from the late 1500's it is the most regal of all the spiritual songs on the album. Dream a Dream is Ms Church's first step into the season of Pop and is superlatively performed. What else are we going to see from this very versatile young lady in the way of Pop? The full orchestral backup of "O Come, All Ye Faithful" truly expresses the spirit of the season. "Draw Tua Bethlehem", a Welsh hymn of praise, is expertly carried by Ms Church in Welsh and English and sets one on a journey of hope.

Not only does this album express the measure of the season but it gives us an insight into the sophistication of voice and value of this very beautiful young lady. The album is beyond the land, lore and love of Charlotte's Welsh citizenship, it speaks to millions throughout the world of all languages and cultures.

Charlotte Church at Her Best
This CD was a gift to me a few years ago from my aunt. I was not a huge fan of Charlotte Church up to that point, but this CD changed that. I enjoyed hearing her sing a vast selection of Christmas songs. While her voice has grown and matured since this CD, it is awesome, and highly recommend it to anyone!

Charlotte's vocals, yes. Overbearing symphony, no
The overwhelming thing about Christmas albums featuring the tried and true standards is one, does the artist do a decent interpretation? Two, are there any new songs or other songs of the season that are rare to those of us in the US? Well, Charlotte Church's Dream A Dream fulfills those criteria. Hey, she's got a wonderful voice, her background is classical and religious music and Welsh songs, so there's gotta be something exotic in the mix, right? Right. And with the London Symphony Choir backing her, Charlotte has another ace up her sleeve.

The new song here, a duet with Billy Gilman, is the title track, resplendent with the orchestral arrangements. "Dream A Dream" has the subtitle Elysium, indicating a place of ideal happiness. Between the two artist, it's clear who's the better vocalist, and it's the one who's not from the US.

"Ding Dong Merrily On High" is sung more on the isles, and it's a chirpy number I first heard on Monty Python (don't ask!). After hitting that high note in the gloria of "Gloria, Hosanna in Excelsis!" I momentarily though her name was Gloria, before I remembered it was Charlotte.

In "Winter Wonderland", she sings a first verse I've never before heard whenever I've heard this overplayed on radio or on nauseating mall muzak. Normally, I hear the chorus straight out, so it shows that maybe those Brits and Welsh are more complete in their carol renditions.

The London Symphony Chorus does wonders on "O Come O Ye Faithful," with Charlotte coming in on the second verse. They sing together in the third one, and the fourth verse, the symphony chimes in, a bit on the bombastic side, I might add, but that's compensated by Charlotte hitting that high note like there's no tomorrow. The symphonic excess is absent in "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing", making a classic X-mas song resplendent, also replicated in their rendition of Handel's "Joy To The World." The songs involving the chorus rank as my favourites here.

"The Coventry Carol" is clearly from the other side of the Atlantic and it's a welcome change from the usual material. It tells how to save Jesus throughout Herod's orders.

The Welsh song she does is "Draw Tua Bethlehem", Welsh for "Far Over Bethelem." She sings the verses in both Welsh and English, and her voice really rings out here. One of the better songs here, and for once, the Symphony is at the right level.

"Lo, How A Rose e'er Blooming," a more religious song, was originally written by Michael Praetorius, the German choral music composer of the seventeenth century. The chorus features the chorus in the first verse

Of the other standards, "The Christmas Song", "Joy To The World", and "Gabriel's Message" is done tastefully. Charlotte's voice is at its usual glory, coming as it does after her self-titled album, but the symphony can be a bit overbearing at times. How much do I appreciate this? Considering that this is the only serious X-mas album I have left in my collection, go figure. However, I would've changed the album cover for something better.

Easily my favorite Christmas album
Dream a Dream is hands-down my favorite Christmas album. Released in 2000, this was only Charlotte Church's third album, but the young soprano's angelic voice was already perfectly suited for invoking the most beautiful strains of season's tidings and awakening the Christmas spirit in even the most unrepentant of Ebenezer Scrooges. Mixing traditional hymns with a few modern classics, Charlotte Church has made herself, in the form of this album, an essential part of my holiday preparations year in and year out.

The album opens with Dream a Dream (Elysium), Charlotte's duet with young Billy Gilman; granted, this is not exactly a Christmas song, but it is a beautiful, soul-stirring piece of music I can't keep myself from playing over and over again. It is a wonderful introduction to the eighteen songs to follow. Among the tracks are several secular songs that all will recognize. Charlotte's unmatched professional musical styling imparts a refreshingly new spin on Winter Wonderland and The Christmas Song. The more serious When a Child Is Born, a song I was unfamiliar with, and The Little Drummer Boy, along with the joyful Ding Dong! Merrily on High stand somewhere between secular and religious pieces, providing an easy transition to the spiritual songs Charlotte was seemingly born to sing.

One comes to feel as if one knows certain hymns such as Joy to the World, O Come, All Ye Faithful, and Hark! The Herald Angels Sing from singing them in church every December, but no one I have heard has ever imbued these songs with the power and splendor that pours out of Charlotte's soul. The final verse and chorus of each of these hymns is simply amazing, with Charlotte gracefully lilting over notes far too high for most talented sopranos. The same can be said of O Holy Night; to me, this is the quintessential Christmas hymn, and only a rare few have the voice to sing the song the way it was meant to be sung. Of course, Charlotte's voice loses none of its power and beauty in songs written in a less vocally challenging register. Songs such as Mary's Boy Child, What Child Is This? (Greensleeves), God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen, and Silent Night reflect a somberly respectful quality, and Charlotte more than does these songs justice. She brings equal amounts of passion, warmth, and respect to each of the songs on this album.

Charlotte also provided me with a wonderful introduction to several songs I had never heard before: The Coventry Carol (Lully Lullay), Draw Tua Bethlehem/Far Over Bethlehem, Gabriel's Message, and Lo! How a Rose E'er Blooming. Draw Tua Bethlehem features both Welsh and English lyrics, and Charlotte's voice is equally beautiful in any language. For me, this entire album is nothing short of perfect. The contributions of the London Symphony Orchestra and Choir as well as the New London Children's Choir should not be overlooked, especially given the fact that several of these songs basically require the backup of heavenly choirs proclaiming the good news, and Julian Smith deserves recognition for his superb arrangements of most of the tracks on the album. With so much talent brought to bear on this project, it is only natural that this CD should find an important place in many a music lover's Christmas traditions. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Nice Cowboy CD
i really like the CD. it has nice instrumentals of many classic cowboy songs. the quality is very good too. the only downfall is that the CD is only about 30 minutes long so it is quite short. but other than that, i recommend it for anyone wanting to hear these nice classic songs.

The Greatest Cowboy Songs Ever
By far, the best instrumental of Western songs I have heard. Very well done! Truely does make you feel you are back in the Old West spiritually!

A Straight Foward Cowboy Instrumental
A collection of tunes that will carry you away to the far reaches of the old west. ... Read more

Amazon.com

There's a commercial inevitability to holiday song collections that can tempt music fans to mutter "humbug" under their breath. Yet while this collection (released in conjunction with the Tenors' Christmas Spectacular tour of 2003) is no less market savvy, in the end the trio's earnest, energetic performances earn their fair shair of respect. The trio's Celtic shadings impart considerable warmth to "Fairytale of New York" and other performances, but it's the range of influences they (also in solo and duet turns, all solidly backed by the Czech National Chamber Orchestra) bring to bear elsewhere that adds compelling new dimensions to these holiday favorites. Anthony Kearns' "It Came Upon a Midnight Clear" may be solidly traditional, but Ronan Tynan imparts "I'll Be Home For Christmas" with some deft, jazzy drama while Finbar Wright gives "Mary's Boy Child" an unexpected Carribean spin. Elsewhere, the folk-classical influences behind "We Three Kings," "O Holy Night," and the gospel traditional "How Great Thou Art" span renaissance, baroque, and modern with a grace missing from the on-the-sleeve sentiments of the closing duo of patriotic warhorses--what would the Prince of Peace make of "The Battle Hymn of the Republic," anyway?--Jerry McCulley ... Read more

Reviews (9)

These Three Kings Rule!
This recording is a wonderful addition to any Christmas collection. It has power, charm and just enough reverence! Anthony Kearn's "Lord's Prayer" is magnificent! Finbar Wright's "How Great Thou Art" is awe-inspiring! After four years with the "Irish Tenors" poor Mr. Wright still must endure the ignorance of a few "fans", being constantly compared to John McDermott. Finbar took the "Irish Tenors" to a new level, as acknowledged by both Kearns and Tynan. I wonder how long "Ringo" had to endure being compared to Peter Best? Get over it people!

Another Winner
In their second Christmas album, the three Irish tenors have another very lovely collection of Christmas favorites and a few not so well known. The duets are particularly beautiful and, while I, like other reviewers, would have preferred an all-Christmas album, the American anthems are stirring and well done. My only caveat is the absence of John McDermott, whom I miss. His voice added something less homogenized to the mix and although Finbar Wright has a more operatic tenor voice, I would prefer McDermott if I had my druthers. Nonetheless, this a a grand Christmas album and I recommend it enthusiastically.

strength to strength
Its amazing how this group of jovial character's have developed and matured to such high level of professionalism.
Vocally they are unmatched in this genre.
There new christmas album is a real christmas treat,
They liven up the old warhorses such as o holy night,white christmas we three kings.
What fun they seem to have in fairy tale of new york,
I notice they are signed to a new label Razor and Tie, I like the name,They seem to be doing a fantastic job in getting the product out there to the public with plenty of tv apperances and add campaigns, good job folk's
we three king's{aptly named} is one for the shopping trolley, you can listen to it all year round.
Looking forward to the next one guy's,
sincerely,
John

Pulls at the heartstrings..
This is a lovely CD to put you in the spirit of the holiday season. The Irish Tenors provide a unique take on the old classics and their rich voices will bring your enjoyment to the next level. Unlike some other reviewers, I personally could do without the patriotic songs at the end. I am a proud American who enjoys songs like these. But on my Christmas CDs, I'd prefer to have just Christmas music.

We Three Kings
This is an incredible CD, much better than the first Irish Tenors CD, probably because Finbar Wright is a much better singer than McDermott. Personally the highlights of the album for me are the solos and duets by Anthony Kearns. The Lord's Prayer stands out from all the others. On the lighter side is Fairytale of New York. I would definitely recommend this CD for anyone. ... Read more

Amazon.com

The Irish Tenors are an acquired taste that, it seems, nearly everyone has acquired. On Home for Christmas, John McDermott, Anthony Kearns, and Ronan Tynan create a stirring seasonal follow-up to their extremely popular self-titled debut of Irish standards. On this disc, we get some of the best-loved holiday songs performed by the tenors in their trademark, Emerald Isle vocal style. Though the disc boasts a 78-piece orchestra, don't expect big-band arrangements on these tunes; if anything, these are intimate performances, with the tenors front-and-center. Each vocalist gets his own solo turns, but there are plenty of tunes featuring all three: "Joy to the World," "It Came Upon a Midnight Clear," "O Holy Night," The Holy City," "Silent Night," and "Amazing Grace." If you still haven't had your fill of holiday music, check out McDermott's solo Christmas album from 1998, on which the vocalist performs an eclectic mix of standards and lesser-known holiday gems. --Jason Verlinde ... Read more

Reviews (30)

Christmas music has never been so beautifully sung!
I received my copy of "Home for Christmas" and am totally overwhelmed by the beauty and clarity of the voices. Words cannot effectively capture the emotions I am feeling as I listen to this beautiful CD. I couldn't imagine that the Irish Tenors were doing a Christmas album--I was thinking it would be another album of ballads and such. I couldn't imagine that it would be as good as their original album. They have topped their original recording!. Anthony's rendition of "Sweet Little Jesus Boy" brings tears to my eyes. "Suo Gan" by John and the two versions of "Ave Maria" by Ronan and Anthony are indescribable. I recommend this CD to anyone who loves Christmas music and to anyone who loves the Irish Tenors.

The Irish Tenors are the best in my book.
If the Irish Tenors sang the telephone book I would buy it. Their voices are magnificent. I have listened to the Christmas CD about 75 times now and still get goose bumps listening to the songs. Anthony Kearns Ave Maria is my favorite. Silent night is a favorite also, estecially Ronan Tynan singing his part in Irish. It is the BEST Christmas album I have ever heard.

BREATH - TAKING !!!
I have the CD and the tape of this item and I have also seen the Concert twice.TWICE !! The most amazing part of it is when Anthony sings his LITTLE JESUS BOY. When I went to the concert the first time I wasn't really prepared for the effect that song would have on me. On the CD & tape he sings with a Choral Group to back him up. EXCEPT FOR THE FIRST LINES OF THAT SONG !!!!!.

IT IS ONLY HIS VOICE WE HEAR, AND WHAT A VOICE !!! But at the live shows, he does the same thing, but without the music, and the effect it has IS LIKE A PHYSICAL BLOW TO THE SENCES. I think every one in the place just held our breath until he was finished. IT'S THE MOST BEAUTIFUL SOUND THAT EVER CAME FROM THE MOUTH OF ANY SINGER I HAVE EVER HEARD. I play that one number over and over just to hear ANTHONY'S VOICE. I guess by now you know that I think all THE IRISH TENORS are great, but there is always something special about each of them on certain numbers they each sing. I especially like the trio doing AMAZING GRACE. They do it so well together. Just can't wait for the new "STUFF" FROM YOUR #1 FAN. JOAN WAY

Home for Christmas--A Masterpiece
Like millions of others I discovered the Irish Tenors through PBS. I promptly began looking for anything else by these wonderful performers and found this Cd. The music is soul-satisfying as the Christmas music is all sacred (the closest to secular is "Good King Wenceslas"). The arrangements are in turn glorious, tender, and sweet. "Suo Gan" by McDermott, ''Sweet Little Jesus Boy" and "The Wexford Carol" by Kearns are highlights. Of the ensemble pieces, "Silent Night" and "Joy to the World" stand out. But the crowning selection is "The Holy City." We are wearing the album out and it's only May. We'll have to have another copy for Christmas!

Live From Belfast
I first videotaped the "Live from Belfast" performance on PBS.I don't know how many times I have watched it. Then I bought the CD (as well as the "Live from Dublin" CD and video), thinking it would have a song book, but it didn't. That is the only thing I could wish for. I am delighted to find the "Home for Christmas" CD, as I have been told by two different sources that it is unavailable.As someone else expressed, I am glad Finbar Wright was given a chance, even though I am sorry for the occasion that made it possible. I am of Irish descent, and their songs (and especially their interpretations) touched me deeply. I would also like to see a list of other recordings, especially of Anthony Kearns. Pavarotti and Bocelli are the only tenors I might rank as equals with Anthony for ability, pure beauty of tone, and control. I have tried repeatedly to access their web site, but it is unavailable. ... Read more

Amazon.com

The award for the most original Christmas album for 2000 goes hands down to the three Osborn sisters--Kristyn, Kelsi, and Kassidy--of Shedaisy for their ambitious pop-rock mini-masterpiece Brand New Year. Exemplary rewrites, rearrangements, and rewired standards such as "Jingle Bells," "Deck the Halls," "Sleigh Ride," and others may tug at your holiday heartstrings for a whole other set of reasons. Add a handful of memorable and sometimes mesmerizing originals and rediscovered gems such as "Christmas Children" from the 1969 musical Scrooge and you've got a record that, at times, almost tries too hard to be too innovative, arty, and occasionally even Beatles-inspired (check that dense harmony and musical interplay/production on "Tinseltown" and the breathtaking arrangement of "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing/Carol of the Bells"). Still, this is an immensely gratifying album even with its slight misses: creative, sometimes caustic, playful, and always full of changes that demand your attention. You won't be disappointed; its rewards for those who stay tuned are many (including a ghost track of a stirring a cappella arrangement at the end). Wow! --Martin Keller ... Read more

Reviews (44)

Love it!
I bought this CD without having heard any of the songs because I was so impressed by "The Whole SHeBang" and I was not disappointed! Sure, I enjoy the classic versions of these songs, but how many CD's do you want that all sound the same? The new "SHeDAISY-fyed" versions of the classics are amazing! I absolutely love the "Hark the Herald Angels Sing/Carol of the Bells" medley - they stated they were "intent upon creating a musical journey for the senses" and they succeeded. You'll also find humour like that of "Lucky For You (Tonight, It's Just Me)" on "Twist of the Magi." I predict "Brand New Year (My Revolution)" will be a hit. "What Child Is This" is the most traditional song on the album and their voices are hauntingly beautiful on the track. This album has great energy, wonderful new songs sure to become Christmas traditions and heretofore not-so-well known songs that you'll gladly incorporate into your holidays.

Well I never thought X-Mas would sound so good in September!
Well I never thought Christmas would sound so good in September! I have been listening to the new release from SHeDAISY, and I have to say that I love it. I mean, the CD *must* be excellent coming from three sisters that "At retail had their CD be the only album by a debut country artist in 1999/2000 to achieve Platinum status," meanwhile their 3rd release is currently #2 on the charts.

They have a random array of songs on this album; some classics, some new, and some classics arranged SHeDAISY style. Track 1 is "Deck The Halls." This was released as a single last year and did GREAT on the charts. The success of the single was why they were encouraged to make a Christmas CD. Track 2 is "Santa's Got a Brand New Bag." I love the beginning of this song! Okay, I actually LOVE all of this song. It is very catchy. All the lyrics of this song had me rolling laughing! Example-"I've got his big fat kiss / Right at the top of my list." Track 3 is "That's What I Want For Christmas." Well, since this is a classic, there is nothing much to say here. I mean, it is just another song to show off those beautiful sister harmonies. It's sweet. Track 4 is "Jingle Bells." Okay, let me see, so they "SHeDAISY-FYed" the song. This track is already feeling the effects of the repeat button on my stereo. It is so awesome! I love the way the chorus is arranged. Next is "A Really, Really Merry Scary Intro." You will have to hear that for yourselves. =0) Track 6 is "Tinsel Town. The lyrics are cute. "Can't get the kids to sleep, sugar's got them wired." It is just another fun SHeDAISY song. Track 7 is "Sleigh Ride." This is just a rockin' awesome song! I love it! Track 8 is "What Child Is This." As soon as Kassidy's vocals began my heart just dropped. I mean, I was thrown into a trance. I have HEARD this song many times BEFORE, but with Kassidy's vocals it is just wonderful! I am in love with this song. This *is* my favorite Christmas song on the album. Then when Kelsi and Kristyn's harmonies intertwine in... They just wrap around Kassidy's voice so magically. Track 9 is "Hark The Herald Angels Sing/Carol of Bells." This is a fun song! I love it! dc Talk's Toby McKeehan raps in part of the song. Track 10 is "The Secret Of Christmas." This is another Christmas classic. Track 11 is "Christmas Children." I love the vocals on this song. It is wonderful. Track 12 is "Twist Of The Magi." The Rascal Flatts join them on this hilarious song. All I can say is, "Oh. My. Word. Listen to the lyrics!" I can't even single out any one lyric that I think is funnier than the other. I love the humor of this song. Track 13 is "Brand New Year." What a hit! They have to market this one for a movie, commercial, or SOMETHING! It makes you want to dance! I love it! And I love the "bonus track." =0)

Talk about a perfect display of Osborn harmony. *sigh* This is an excellent CD. For all the SHeINFO you might ever need, head to the official web site at www.shedaisy.com Oh, and don't forget to "Share the SHeLOVE!"

-The Texas Spaz

The Best Christmas CD I own!
SHeDAISY is an awesome group. This CD, which they released after their successful debut and after the success of "Deck the Halls" as a single, is the best Christmas CD I own. The CD is almost completely original, with a few songs remaining in their original form.

1. Deck the Halls (5/5) - This song is easily my favorite. The powerful opening, the great harmonies, it's awesome. An upbeat remake of a classic song.
2. Santa's Got a Brand New Bag (5/5) - A SHeDAISY original, this song proves the writing finesse and arrangement power these girls have.
3. That's What I Want For Christmas (5/5) - A classic song I had never heard before, made a new classic by these guys.
4. Jingle Bells (5/5) - This song is why I bought the CD in the first place! An excellent re-arrangement of a classic.
5. Intro (1/5) - Completely pointless intro
6. Tinseltown (5/5) - Excellent excellent song.
7. Sleigh Ride (4/5) - Great song
8. What Child is This (5/5) - Re-arranged in a way, but intact. Bible verses read sound great and should be in every version, I think
9. Hark!/Carol of the Bells (4/5) - These songs should have been recorded separately! Each would stand well on its own. I give it four mainly because of the blending problems...a little more polish on Carol would've been great.
10. Secret of Christmas (4/5) - A good song
11. Christmas Children (5/5) - This song is AWESOME!
12. Twist of the Magi (2.5/5) - I'm not a fan of Rascal Flatts, but the song itself isn't as good as it could have been.
13. Brand New Year (6/5) - Absolute best Christmas single ever. So much energy packed into 4 minutes. It'll make you replay it over and over.
14. Bonus song (6/5) - Right before track 14, there's this song, which is featured at the beginning of I will on the remix album. This song is beautiful and should've just been a regular track on the album. Great way to close.

All in all, this CD is one that should not be missed. You won't be disappointed.

Already a classic for my family!
I am big fan of SheDaisy as it is so I bought this knowing it was going to be great but even I was amazed at just how great! Now, I will admit, it took me listening to it a few times before I really went crazy for this CD. I bought it last year after the holidays. I listened to it and liked it but put it away for the next year. I usually wait until after Thanksgiving to listen to Christmas music but I couldn't wait this year. I took this CD out to the van the week before Thanksgiving and its been in the CD player ever since. My children (ages 18m to 11yrs) love this CD and we all sing along as head down the road. I am sure we've entertained quite a few with our sing-along car rides. It is so full of energy and it has quickly become a favorite for us all. If you want something different from the 'norm' get this CD, listen to it, really listen to it... get those traditional sounds out of your head and you'll be hooked!

Finally something other than the same old tunes
You may recognize some of the titles, but you've never heard them played/sung this way. It's edgy, clever, well orchestrated, energetic, delightful in every way. I was concerned when I read some of the other reviews panning this CD. I fully expected to hate it when I listened. My mind soon changed after just a few measures into the first song! If your idea of Christmas music is the same ten songs you see on every album (Christmas Song, Jingle Bells, Deck the Halls, Silent Night, etc) sung the same way by different artists, then you won't like this CD. If you're tired of the same old same old, and want something fresh but still Christmasy (not traditional, but holiday-oriented), this it what you've been looking for. Enjoy ... Read more