Very Special Xmas
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (25 October, 1990)
list price: $18.98
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Editorial Review

When was the last time you heard collard greens being sung about in a Christmas song? Probably never, unless you're a Run DMC fan, or were wise enough to hop on the Very Special Christmas tip. The rappers' contribution to this benefit collection is probably the highlight, although traditional songs covered by now-traditional artists like the Pretenders ("Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas") provide the majority of the material here. Eurythmics turn in a suitably chilly "Winter Wonderland," Stevie Nicks sings a beautifully haunting "Silent Night," and Whitney Houston proves again that she's every woman with "Do You Hear What I Hear"--that is, every woman with a voice strong enough to do the song justice. "Santa Baby," Madonna's contribution, isn't as sultry as it could be, but there's more fun thanks to hell-on-heels, the Pointer Sisters and Bon Jovi. --Steve Gdula ... Read more

Reviews (34)

Best X-mas Album Ever
I bought this on tape when it was released in 1987, and loved it.I played it for everyone, from great-grandma to my younger brother and his rap loving friends and they all thought it was a great album.There is a good mix of old and new songs, and it seems like they picked the perfect singers for all the songs.

Don't expect the other albums in the series to be just as good.I bought "A Very Special X-Mas 2", which I think was released in 1989 or 1990 and I was hugely disappointed.Not as half as good as the first one.

I recently bought it on CD, so I could rip the songs and listen to them on the computer & my MP3 player, and it's just as enjoyable as ever.

the best of the series
To me, the first time is always the best.In this series of Christmas charity albums I mean.However, I am horrified at the other reviewers who repeatedly state that the best tracks on the album are Madonna's version of Santa Baby (please - Eartha Kitt where are you), and Stevie Nicks' Silent Night (sung like she is going to fall asleep - and I like Stevie Nicks). Whitney Houston is alright but come on - The Pretenders' version of Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas, Sting's Gabriels Message and Alison Moyet's Coventry Carol are by far the best tracks on the album (in my humble opinion of course).

This IS a Very Special Christmas CD!
This is a very enjoyable CD, with something for everyone, whether you like rock, pop, or rap. Highlights include Christmas (Baby Please Come Home) by U2, which sounds just like a 'regular' U2 song; Do You Hear What I Hear by Whitney Houston, The Coventry Carol by Alison Moyet, a little known song by a regrettably little known singer, the rocking I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus by John Mellencamp, with the added kick of his young daughter singing at the end, and a haunting version of Silent Night by Stevie Nicks (although it's annoying that she changes the words to make it slightly less religious, after all the song IS about the night Jesus was born)! But the two absolute best songs are Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas by the Pretenders and Gabriel's Message by Sting- these songs are beautifully performed and are probably the best versions of the songs I've ever heard. The only song I really dislike and always skip is Merry Christmas Baby by Bruce Springsteen. ... Read more

Asin: B000002GFJ
Subjects:  1. Christmas / Chanukkah    2. Pop    3. V/a Compilations   

Ho Ho Ho
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (28 October, 1997)
list price: $11.98
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Editorial Review

This is the campy holiday disc of the decade (if not the past 40 years) from 1997. Everybody's favorite sugar plum fairy delivers a batch of standards and salty originals as only RuPaul can. Some of these holiday covers are done so tongue-in-cheek (i.e., "I Saw Daddy Kissing Santa Claus") you expect to find an oral surgeon listed on the album credits. Still Ho Ho Ho (isn't that an allusion to an old Eddie Murphy line on Saturday Night Live?) really is fun fun fun, especially RuPaul's hilarious sendup of Eartha Kit's "Santa Baby," preceded by "All I Want for Christmas." Here the combined wish lists are slightly changed to reflect RuPaul's pronounced proclivities: cash, plastic surgery (a nice tummy tuck and some other anatomical manipulations, too), cash, and, of course, a big diamond rock. When it's all said and done, this is one Christmas sweet tart who wants "the total package, honey. TP." Ho doesn't come with one, but a PG rating here should suffice. --Martin Keller ... Read more

Reviews (19)

Another tired snow queen
Girl, don't even waste your money on this heffa, with her fake ol' blonde wig.Miss RuPaul obviously wants to be a white woman and loves to chase after these white boys.I ain't havin' it!Get me a REAL drag queen from New York a la "Paris is Burning!!!"Big-time THUMBS DOWN on this CD.

Merry RuPaul
Ho Ho Ho is probably one of the only Christmas albums that will bring in the spirit and manage to make you laugh out loud at the same time.This comic look at Christmas, with songs such as "Rupaul The Red-Nosed Reindeer" and "I Saw Daddy Kissing Santa Clause," includes dance beats that are incorporated with jingles and the result is a danceable Christmas.Get this one.

"RuPaul the rednosed drag queen"
I bought this album back in 1998 as a joke gift.An album by RuPaul entitled "Ho Ho Ho" seemed like a sure laugh riot to me.I ended up liking it so much that I kept it for myself and have played it every Christmas since.RuPaul definitely puts an alternative stamp of some classic Christmas favorites.From "I saw daddy kissing Santa Claus" to "RuPaul the rednosed drag queen" to "All I want for Christmas is some liposuction" to a soulful rendition of "Mr. Grinch" this album looks at Christmas from a point of view of a unique lifestyle.The interaction with friends during the songs is also fun, especially on "Hard Candy Christmas" and "All I Want for Christmas." The album also offers a more serious (and a little disturbing) darker look at the holidays on "Christmas Nite."The last track is a repetitive techno dance track for New Year's. For a Christmas album out of the ordinary, I recommend Ho Ho Ho. ... Read more

Asin: B00000345I
Subjects:  1. Christmas    2. Christmas / Chanukkah    3. Club/Dance    4. Euro-Dance    5. Hi-NRG    6. Holiday    7. House    8. Pop   

Pytor Illych Tchaikovsky: The Nutcracker - Complete Ballet
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (20 October, 1998)
list price: $16.98 -- our price: $13.99
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Editorial Review

Although Gergiev is highly experienced in the theater, and he is leading an opera-ballet orchestra, this is definitely a concert Nutcracker. Tempos are brisk, textures streamlined, and dancers might have a good deal of difficulty keeping up with the music. For us home listeners, though, this is a superb way to hear Tchaikovsky's complete score and to remind ourselves of how much good music isn't included in the familiar suite. Gergiev justifies his reputation as an interpreter and as an orchestra leader, getting amazingly precise playing from the ensemble. Best of all, Philips has somehow crammed more than 81 minutes of superb sound onto this disc, making it a remarkable bargain. Very highly recommended! --Leslie Gerber ... Read more

Reviews (53)

Unpolished performance
I am an avid fan of the Tchaikovsky ballets and seem to have collected a few recordings of all three.I can generally find something new or interesting about each of my recordings, but I have to say that Gergiev with the Kirov Orchestra has brought very little to the table (despite the Penguin Guide's rave review).

I will not complain about the fast tempos, as I understand Gergiev's rationale for presenting the ballet as a symphonic work (and it IS nice to have this entire ballet on one disc).However, my major gripe is the quality of this performance.The Kirov Orchestra generally produces fine recordings (see, e.g., Gergiev's "Sleeping Beauty"), but here there are many problems.The brass section sounds quite unstable throughout the ballet--the trumpets miss notes in the "Battle Scene" and the lower brass section often lags behind the woodwinds and strings.The strings sound a bit frantic in the fast sections, and they do not always play with the precision that the Kirov strings are known for. Finally, the woodwind solo playing is unimpressive (although I wouldn't say "bad").

Having said all that, there are some great moments in this recording worth mentioning.The Overture is fresh and simple, and Gergiev succeeds in bringing passion to "The Christmas Tree" Scene (Act I, Scene 8) without making it syrupy.Also, the recording engineers succeeded admirably in making the sound crystal clear (perhaps making the orchestra's imprecision that much more evident).

I do appreciate Gergiev's attempt at making this an energetic one-disc performance, and there is much passion and excitement throughout.But most of that is ruined for me by the orchestra's lack of technical accuracy and discipline.The Nutcracker may sound whimsical at times, but it is a difficult ballet to perform well.And when you buy a recording, you hear all the mistakes every single time you listen to it.I just don't think there is much of an excuse for such an unpolished performance to get by on a recording.

I cannot recommend this recording in light of the many other fantastic ones out there.Try, for example Sir Charles Mackerras/London Symphony Orchestra (my personal favorite) or Charles Dutoit/Montreal Symphony Orchestra.Mackerras's orchestra plays with vigor and unfaltering accuracy, and Dutoit's warm, romantic sound is quite pleasing to the ear.

Utterly Bombastic and Unbalanced!
For me, Gergiev is the most trusted name in Russian music.When I am searching for a new recording and I come across one with his name on it my search ends.Being that Tchaikovsky's three ballets are some of my favorite pieces in Russian music, I was excited about this recording, but it disappoints more than it thrills.

I was excited about the faster tempos because it gives a new twist on an all too familiar piece.Scene 12 (the dances) on this recording is simply astounding, particularily the "Trepak (Russiane Dance)"Breathtaking is an understatment.However, when the wretchedness of some of the movements appears, it completely ruins the effect of this recording.No where is it more evident than in Scene 8 "In the Pine Forest" (In the Christmas Tree on this recording) and the end of the "Pas de deux", which are my two favorite moments in 'The Nutcracker'.The problem here is the trumpet playing.The trumpet is the voice that is supposed to rise above all and be most promenient.The problem here is it is unbalanced - the trumpet complete overpowers the rest of the orchestra to the point where they can hardly be heard.The biggest issue here is the tone quality of the trumpet player.It is simply wretched, wavering, and downright ugly.It's brutality ruins two of the most beautiful moments in this piece. Compare it with Previn's beautiful reading with the London Symphony Orchestra and you will see exactly what I'm talking about.

This recording is brilliant and glorious at moments, but when it calls for beauty, it doesn't deliver.Get the Previn boxed set which includes all three ballets at a bargin price.However, you shouldn't be without Gergiev's recording of 'The Sleeping Beauty', because he hit a home run there.

Very good
I find this recording to be a very good choice. The performance of the ballet is wonderful, and complete. Gergiev really did a nice job here, and the sound quality is very good. I do not think any parts of this recording go too slow, but I will agree with some of the past reviewers in saying that it is maybe a little rushed in some places (I only noticed this in the Russian Dance, not really anywhere else). However, this is sometimes even hailed as a definitive recording of the ballet, and is very enjoyable. Highly recommended. ... Read more

Asin: B00000A1GL
Subjects:  1. Ballet    2. Christmas / Chanukkah    3. Classical   

David Foster's the Christmas Album
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (19 October, 1993)
list price: $18.98
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Reviews (22)

Christmas Songs Like You've NEVER Heard Them Before
When you consider the fact that the man who virtually defined pop music culture, as we know it today, worked up a contemporary Christmas album, what you get is an extraordinary blend of traditional sounds with pop flare, mind blowing arrangements, and precise, almost perfect, musical integrity.I offer you : David Foster The Christmas Album.

The Breakdown :

>> Track 1 - Carol Of The Bells (Instrumental) <<
An absolutely amazing rendition.Short, sweet, and oh so powerful.Considering that this piece (with the exception of the horns) is done entirely on keyboards, the Magical Mr. Foster puts his almighty thumbprint on this album and sets the pace for what's to come.

>> Track 2 - Blue Christmas (Vocals: Wynonna) <<
Bluesy rendition with a rich "piano bar" atmosphere.The orchestra makes all the difference.

>> Track 3 - The First Noel (Vocals: BeBe & CeCe Winans) <<
A Two parter.Nice violin work with a soft, angelic, vocal beginning (you can definitely pick up on the "Fosterization" of the music).Magically becomes a light, solid, jazz riff that is Foster all the way.

>> Track 4 - It's the Most Wonderful Time Of The Year (Vocals: Johnny Mathis) <<
Upbeat fanfare.Energizing. Very busy orchestration perfectly suited for this happy, happy song.Mathis is the only one that could have done this.....perfect choice!

>> Track 5 - Grown Up Christmas List (Vocals: Natalie Cole) <<
A Foster original.Much better than the Amy Grant version.Foster's bass work in this song makes it.

>> Track 6 - O Holy Night (Vocals: Michael Crawford) <<
Can the "Phantom Of The Opera" sing "Oh Holy Night"?Answer: "Oh YES!!!"Show stopping vocal performance with what is probably the most POWERFUL orchestration and music on the entire album (or any other album for that matter).The backing boys choir will raise the hair on the back of your neck (guaranteed).

>> Track 7 - Go Tell It On The Mountain/Mary Had A Baby (Vocals: Vanessa Williams) <<
The preacher's wife would love this one.Most people can't pat their head and rub their tummy at the same time, and likewise, most people can't sit down and listen to THIS song at the same time.Starts with a nice southern vocal rendition of Mary Had A Baby, the literally explodes into a foot stompin', hand clappin' full blown gospel rich Go Tell It On The Mountain.Excellent piano work!!!

>> Track 8 - Ill be Home For Christmas (Vocals: Peabo Bryson & Roberta Flack) <<
Very nice contemporary jazz version of the song (one of my favorites on the album).Boz Scaggs would be proud of this one.The electric bass work by the wonderfully talented Nathan East makes this juicy track worth playing over and over again.

>> Track 9 - Mary's Boy Child (Vocals: Tom Jones)
No Las Vegas Here.Mr. Jones rips a very good and powerful performance on this somewhat obscure and little known Christmas song.But hey, with Foster behind the wheel, you can't go wrong.

>> Track 10 - The Christmas Song (Vocal: Celine Dion) <<
Oh Celine, Celine.....what can I say.Absolutely beautiful.Makes you want to roast chestnuts on an open fire.Again, a swaying, piano bar feel with a composite orchestration thrown in for spice.If this song doesn't put you in the Christmas "mood", nothing will.

>> Track 11 - Away In A Manger (Vocals: Tammy Wynette) <<
After hearing this, you won't think of this song as a mere "children's" tune any more.Tammy's country vocal "twang" mixes beautifully with an angelic orchestration that will leave a pleasant smile on your face and a warm feeling in your soul.The narrative part of the song is mood altering.Excellent.

>> Track 12 - White Christmas (Vocals: All Of The Above)
Music Master Jeremy Lobbock teams with Foster to put the exclamation point on this album.Nice. Jazzy.Total Foster evident here.The transitions are perfect, progressions absolute.Gotta love it.

Hey, buy this album.Put it on.Decorate the tree.Light a fire in the fireplace.Drink Egg-Nog.Have a wonderful Christmas!!

One of my favs
I used to work for a music store ... a while ago. And when this CD came out I put it on for in store Christmas music, and never took it off. I had to buy it for myself and it's about the only CD I play at Christmas time.
The mix of artists and the pick of songs are perfect.

Five stars on the first song, one to three on the rest
The only reason we have this CD, I'm afraid to admit, is because of the first track. I think most of the value in this CD are in the big names such as Tammy Wynette and Celine Dion listed for some of the songs. If you are a fan of some of these names, then good, you'll probably enjoy this CD. For those of you who, like me, don't have a clue who some of these folks are, most of the rest of the songs are only of marginal quality.

Track 1 (2:54): This track is so absolutely, mind-blowingly good that it was worth buying this whole CD just for it. A fabulous rendition of the Carol of the Bells, its grandeur and splendor are unequaled by any other song I've ever heard! David Foster has come up with the ultimate version of the Carol of the Bells, and I say that even with Mannheim Steamroller's music in mind. If you like half the tracks on this CD but aren't sure, let me be the first to tell you, this track makes it all worth it. It's the perfect grand beginning to kick of a season of Christmas music.

Track 2 (3:42): Famed country singer (and now DUI-charged) Wynonna Judd sings on Blue Christmas. It's not bad, if you like Wynonna.

Track 3 (6:04): I think this due usually sing love songs and stuff, but their version of The First Noel isn't bad, at least not at first. It kinda breaks into more modern sounds and percussion. If you like these folks, you'll probably like the song. It's definitely the longest song on the CD.

Track 4 (2:24): I'm going to shock you by saying I've only heard a handful of songs by Johnny Mathis, although I hear he's sort of THE traditional singer for Christmas. He sings the song pretty well, I'd say.

Track 5 (3:37): Almost everyone (including me, wow) knows who Nat King Cole is. This song is sung by his daughter, and probably the second best on the CD. It's a very pretty song sung about desiring peace and love for all mankind. I have one teensy little problem with this song, namely, the two lyrics of the chorus that cannot be reconciled. In the "Grown-up Christmas list", Natalie Cole sings of her wish that "wars would never start and ... right would always win." How can Right win if it cannot fight Wrong? A small thing, perhaps, but one that folks would do good to remember. The song is still pretty, and I like it.

Track 6 (5:05): My favorite Christmas song, and it's done pretty well. In my opinion, most artists who can remain true to the tune of the original song will sound good, solely because of how good the song is, and this guy Michael Crawford does it very well.

Track 7 (5:46): This song is sung in a negro spiritual traditional style. If you like it, you'll probably like this. I say the song is only marginal.

Track 8 (4:08): I'll be Home for Christmas by Peabo Bryson and Roberta Flack
It's not bad. I don't these people either, but they sing an okay version of the song.

Track 9 (4:28): Go ahead and gasp, because I've never heard of Tom Jones either. However, I'd say his rendition of this somewhat obscure and unused song. I like it.

Track 10 (4:13): Yes, I have heard of this singer, she sang in that movie about that big boat, right? I don't know, all I can say is she does an okay job on the Christmas Song. No special beauty or grandeur about it.

Track 11 (3:35): Sung by Tammy Wynette, the way it's sung rather sounds like a soft country song. That's the only way I can compare it. Once again, it's not that bad, but nothing super special.

Track 12 (4:02): All artists combine to sing White Christmas for us. For the last time, it's only an okay version. ... Read more

Asin: B000001Y5V
Sales Rank: 74800
Subjects:  1. Adult Contemporary    2. Christmas    3. Christmas / Chanukkah    4. Film Music    5. Holiday    6. Orchestral Pop    7. Pop   

In the Christmas Mood, Vol. 1
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (20 September, 1991)
list price: $5.98 -- our price: $5.98
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Reviews (4)

Puts me in the Christmas mood
I'm not a swing or Glen Miller afficionodo, but I really enjoy this cd.The songs have on old time feel, but one that works for me because of it's swing/big band roots.I was suprised to find a few tracks with vocals, but they don't detract fornm the overall feel of the cd and actually provide a nice mix to the set.The final song, "In The Christmas Mood" is an original which nicely sums up the entire project.I use this and it's sister albums (In The Christmas Mood II and The Glen Miller Nuctcracker) as background music at partes and it never fails to get people festive and dancing around the room.My only complaint would be that running at 40:41, it seems the party ends too soon.But I guess that's more of a compliment than a complaint isn't it?

Glenn Miller Orchestra Earns Their Wings
This CD album became volume 1 of a 3-volume box set.It was recorded by the "Glenn Miller Orchestra" which inherited the authentic "Glenn Miller" style of arrangement, orchestration, dynamics and vocal style.The Orchestra obviously had a lot of fun doing it using "standard" Christmas melodies.(They reveal in the signature "In the Christmas Mood" number that they still have a hankering for the Andrews sisters.)

Glenn Miller himself, who had been promoted to a major in the Army, died in a plane accident during World War II on the way to entertaining the troops in Europe but not before he imprinted his own style on his own band during the ongoing "Big Band" era.

"In the Christmas Mood", inspired by the GM band's most well-known and well-known work, "In the Mood", but drawing on the entire GM repertoire is therefore part tribute, part nostagia and pure entertainment.You will enjoy this CD and the other two in the box set - share it with your kids, your friends, your associates during Christmas parties and all during the season.

I have explored the GM websites and read the history. My father played GM and Tommy Dorsey when I was but a toddler.

After you buy "In the Christmas Mood, vol. 1" then go to the other two (warning:go for the box set now - you will want it later after you try this one).

Lame Pseudo "Swing"
Like the rest of these limp "Glenn Miller" albums recorded 40 years after he died this is a lame take on "swing" music.It's well recorded but nothing like anything he did when he was alive.Call it "Glenn Miller lite", or swing without syncopation.Similar to a Lawrence Welk approach to "swing music" albeit more lively.Either way, a misrepresentation of swing music.Pretty dreadful if you are a true swing fan, but lots of folks seem to enjoy this watered down pablum. ... Read more

Asin: B000001VOL
Sales Rank: 128260
Subjects:  1. Big Band    2. Christmas    3. Christmas / Chanukkah    4. Holiday    5. Leader    6. Pop    7. Sweet Bands    8. Swing   

Count Your Blessings
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (07 October, 2003)
list price: $18.98 -- our price: $18.98
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Reviews (4)

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

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

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

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

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

Asin: B0000AYLI5
Sales Rank: 69299
Subjects:  1. Christmas / Chanukkah    2. Nostalgia    3. Pop    4. Show Tunes   

A Christmas Carol (Reissue)
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (01 November, 1992)
list price: $19.95 -- our price: $13.57
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Features

• Abridged

Reviews (28)

Fantastic Reading
Stewart does an amazing job reading the story. It must be an incredible one-man show. He does all the voices and the sound effects. For example, he just says "ding" for the ringing of the clock as it strikes the top of the hour, but in the way Patrick Stewart does it he pulls you into Scrooge's nervous anticipation of the striking of the final bell. Using different intonations and voices, Stewart draws you into the story. His enthusiam for the story is infectious. His voice is mesmerizing. I can not recommend this audio book enough.

It's so good that it gives me gooseflesh...
As a huge fan of Patrick Stewart in his various movies, I was curious of this audio-performance. And I wasn't disappointed. His rich voice and his stage-trained intonation give his performance such a superb quality that I can actually SEE the small fire, SMELL the food in the kitchen and SHIVER in the cold, while the ghost takes Scrooge to the various stations of his life. All is so very authentic that it gives me shivers and gooseflesh is crawling up my arms while listening...Get your copy if you like Dickens. To me it is the best performance ever.

A masterwork
Quite possibly the best performance of Dickens' story ever captured on recorded media. And I really don't hand out praise like that. Ever.

This is "A Christmas Carol" in its purest form, unimpeded by special effects, costumes, and familar faces. It is a classic story rendered as a fireside tale that whisks the listener to 19th century England as quickly as a dried leaf may be blown down a wintry sidewalk. In this jaded age of technology and media saturation, it is a nearly mystical experience to nuzzle in a blanket, sip your hot cocoa, close your eyes, and be enthralled by the ancient art of storytelling.

Stewart is absolutely astonishing in the breadth and depth of his performance.While gleefully spinning a tale, he enriches it further by plying his acting skills to their zenith. Each character stands unique and fully formed, even if they have only a single line. And the freshness this restores to this admittedly overfamiliar story is heartwarming in itself.

Listening to this reading has become a tradition in our household. I cheerfully recommend making it one in yours as well! ... Read more

Isbn: 0671793829
Sales Rank: 305374
Subjects:  1. Audio - Literature / Classics    2. Audio Adult: Books On Tape    3. Classics    4. Fiction / Classics   

Once Upon a Xmas
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (25 October, 1990)
list price: $11.98
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Editorial Review

Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers, two of country's most loved (or least liked, depending on how you look at them) stars join forces for a Christmas album that is surprisingly fluff free. There are the usual suspects here--a cozy "Winter Wonderland," a somber "Silent Night"--plus some touching curiosities, like "The Greatest Gift of All" and the title track. Of course there are the required romantic numbers since this is a duet album, but they're not as gratuitous as one might fear. Dolly does a fine job of keeping the yee-haw factor to a minimum, and Kenny doesn't try to compete with her on the singer-as-storyteller front. All in all their voices complement each other quite well, and the arrangements are first rate. Here's one holiday collection that might win a few converts. --Steve Gdula ... Read more

Reviews (52)

You can not lose with Dolly
I have the original CD version of all 10 songs and I have to say that it is great. There are some old ones and some other ones that Dolly wrote. While I think it is a shame that in the new CD version that took out Kenny's solo songs it is still a great album fro christmas lovers and Dolly lovers alike.

Dolly has a real gift for song writing and that is why the songs on here are unforgetable.

Great Christmas Album
This Album will forever be my favorite Christmas CD.If you are a fan of country music or any music in general for that matter, you can't go wrong with these two legends.This music transcends the generations and will be a treasure for years to come.

One of the Essential Christmas Albums
What a wonderful album to own.
I remember literally wearing this album out as a younger person.We owned it on LP and I always looked forward to listening to it.
It is perfect listening for cooking Christmas goodies, decorating the tree or even wrapping presents.Every song is great.All you will need to accompany this CD is your tree ready to decorate, a lit fire, and your favorite Christmas beverage. ... Read more

Asin: B000002X2E
Subjects:  1. Christmas / Chanukkah    2. Pop   

Disney Presents a Family Christmas
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (09 December, 2003)
list price: $16.99 -- our price: $16.99
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Features

• Import

Reviews (10)

similar to the one I had as a child, but not identical
I ordered this CD after reading the other reviews, hoping this CD would be identical to my Disney tape I listened to a decade ago as a child.While some songs are identical (such as 12 days of Christmas) with the Disney "crew" singing (Goofy, Donald, Mickey), some of the other songs are NOT the same as I remember."Frosty the snowman" doesn't have Goofy singing, nor does "Jingle Bells".I wonder why some of the songs are as I remember them, whereas others are missing the Disney gang.I'm disappointed, as I was hoping for the CD version of my Disney tape.Not a bad CD altogether, but it really isn't the same without Goofy and Mickey singing on all of the tracks.

Christmas Memories
I grew up listening to an LP titled Disney: Merry Christmas Carols (copyright of 1980) every Christmas Eve.This CD has 9 of the 12 songs that were on that particular LP.The Twelve Days of Christmas is sung by all the Disney characters such as Mickey, Goofy, Donald and Clarabelle.Most of the songs are sung by Larry Groce and/or the chorus.I am so pleased to find this CD and am glad that Disney put most of those songs on CD.I hope my son will enjoy listening to it as much as I did as a child.The only reason I give it 4 stars is that it is missing 3 songs from that LP.

Wonderful Childhood Memories
I am so thrilled that I FINALLY found this cd. I have looked EVERYWHERE!! When I was a child we had this on a record LP and I remember my brother and cousins, along with myself, would sit around the house and listen to this and sing to the top of our lungs. LOL (Of course our parents would be like *calm it down just abit kids*) we'd laugh and keep right on singing. Talk about memories!!I am 27yrs old now and I feel like that little kid all over again.:) I suggest that anyone with children buy this.You'll never regret it!Thank you so much Amazon for carrying this.It's truly a real treasure. ... Read more

Asin: B00002ZZXD
Sales Rank: 95761
Subjects:  1. Christmas    2. Christmas / Chanukkah    3. Pop    4. Sing-Along    5. V/a Compilations   

The Jackson 5 Christmas Album
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (09 August, 2000)
list price: $6.98 -- our price: $6.98
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Editorial Review

Christmastime is a time when families get together and sing a few old favorites to raise some seasonal cheer. That's exactly the spirit you'll hear on the Jackson family's holiday gathering--albeit with a few more eye-popping performances than in most home get-togethers. Michael, Jermaine, Tito, and their sibs flash energy and enthusiasm aplenty on old-time faves such as "Up on the Housetop" and "I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus." And even when they take things down a notch for ballads like "Christmas Won't Be the Same" and "Give Love on Christmas Day," the affection and tenderness shine through in the way they can only at a true family celebration. --David Sprague ... Read more

Reviews (21)

Best Christmas Album Ever!!!
I've listened to this Christmas album since I was a little kid.Never fails to cheer up the holidays.A real classic and my most favorite Christmas album ever.J5's Christmas songs and Elvis's Christmas songs are the best.

CLASSIC CHRISTMAS MUSIC FROM THE FIRST FAMILY OF SOUL
i loved the J5 as a kid & i still love this.i just bought it this year because i haven't heard it since i was probably in grade school. like David Allan Grier says, you can't go freestyling the holidays, it's a family affair...well, it doesn't get any more family than the Jacksons.the vibe is there regardless of their family history, so reviewer "willows340" doesn't know what they're talkin' about.enjoy some real holiday soul with the Jacksons!

Kill me now....
In our office we have a "variety" of piped-in Christmas music playing and one of them that plays waay too often is Michael Jackson singing "Santa Claus is Coming to Town".Everyone wants to shoot themselves in the head listening to that screeching, hopped-up crap.I might have thought this was OK back in 8th grade when this came out.Now, give me lovely, peaceful, SANE music NOT sung by a pedophile.Please! ... Read more

Asin: B000001AEZ
Subjects:  1. Christmas    2. Christmas / Chanukkah    3. Disco    4. Holiday    5. Motown    6. Philly Soul    7. Pop    8. Pop-Soul    9. Soul    10. Urban   

Christmas Stays the Same
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (24 October, 2000)
list price: $9.98 -- our price: $9.98
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Editorial Review

Following the 1999 success of her CD single of "The Christmas Song," Linda Eder delivers a full-length holiday album that will please her fans for years to come. No surprise that the program includes a hard swinger ("Here Comes Santa Claus/Santa Claus Is Coming to Town") and a gorgeous Judy Garland cover ("Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas"), but "Do You Hear What I Hear?" and "O Holy Night" sizzle with a gospel choir, and she adds a lovely descant to "Silent Night." Her "Christmas Song" performance is reprised here, and a medley combines the very familiar "I'll Be Home for Christmas" and "Let It Snow" with the too seldom heard "Silver and Gold." And of course no Eder album would be complete without songs from husband Frank Wildhorn. In addition to the pleasant title track and "The Bells of St. Paul," "Christmas Through a Child's Eyes" features a lyric by Eder herself, written for their young son. --David Horiuchi ... Read more

Reviews (68)

Beautiful!
BUY THIS! It is wonderful! Every song on this c.d is beautifully arranged and delivered. I love "O Come O Come Emmanuel/What Child Is This". She does a high legato thing while the Broadway Gospel Choir sings O Come O Come Emmanuel and then she goes straight into What Child Is This.Every thing is wonderful! Buy it!

She's just GREAT!
Yes, LeeAnn from CA - "Do you hear what I hear" with the African beat is wonderful.Plus, I defy anyone to listen to Linda sing "Ava Maria" or "O Holy Night" without getting goose-bumps! W - O - W !!!

Linda Eder's voice is a wonder, so anything she sings is bound to be fabulous. I'm hoping for another Christmas album from this fantastic artist, with more creative arrangements similiar to "Do you hear what I hear" to truly showcase the glorious voice & talent of this lady.

Christmas Stays the Same
I purchased this CD because I heard the song "Do you hear what I hear" and loved it.The African beat was a very nice change.Unfortuantely none of the other music on the CD is as original as that song.Her music is beautiful but I was expecting something much better. ... Read more

Asin: B00004YNGO
Subjects:  1. Adult Contemporary    2. Christmas    3. Christmas / Chanukkah    4. Holiday    5. Pop   

Ella Wishes You a Swinging Christmas
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (11 July, 1989)
list price: $10.98
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Editorial Review

It'd be hard to imagine a happier wish than the one this jazz vocal legend wishes her listeners on this urbane-yet-homey collection of holiday favorites. The First Lady of Song recorded these tunes in 1960, at the peak of her interpretive powers. As such, she puts her singular stamp on everything from a sultry vamp like "What Are You Doing New Year's Eve" to the sweet and cozy "The Christmas Song." Even potentially shopworn standards like "Santa Claus Is Comin' to Town" sound fresher when they're coming from Ella Fitzgerald. --David Sprague ... Read more

Reviews (29)

Ella does really swing
Incredibly swinging big band, brilliant arrangements and Ella's smooth, perfectionate singing makes this album surely one of the best Christmas albums ever. You can just enjoy the jazz, the Christmas songs, Ella's grooove or everything together, it works!

not necessarily a must-have
I hate to disagree with so many reviewers, but I definitely don't think this collection is worth owning.I am a huge Ella fan, and own almost all of the songbooks, but this collection doesn't seem to capture the magic of Ella's voice the way some of those other albums do.I bought it, thinking no Ella album could be disappointing, but I was unfortunately wrong.The recordings seem tossed off and don't allow her voice to be fully appreciated.I admit that I generally prefer Ella's ballads to the more up-tempo jazz numbers, so I may simply be biased against this collection.But I find that Christmas songs by Bing Crosby and Burl Ives work better and are more universally loved because the songs compliment their voices more.

If you must own everything Ella ever recorded, by all means, buy this album.But for the more casual Ella fan, I think that Ella's talents are wasted on most of these songs, so I recommend that you invest in one of her songbooks and a copy of "A Charlie Brown Christmas" instead.

One of the Best Holiday CDs Ever
Most years I kick myself because I forget to get out my Christmas CDs and listen to them.This year I remembered and ended up overdosing on Xmas music.Just when I thought I couldn't stand another Xmas song, I put on this CD again.It's such a great and fresh CD that I can listen to it over and over again, even after I'm burned out on Xmas music.It just has such a terrific, swinging, urbane sound.When she sings, "Hang your head down Rudy," in "Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer," I get tingles.It's the only Ella CD I have, but it makes me want to get more of her music.Highly recommended for people looking for jazzy Holiday music. ... Read more

Asin: B0000046YM
Subjects:  1. Ballads    2. Bop    3. Christmas    4. Christmas / Chanukkah    5. Holiday    6. Pop    7. Standards    8. Swing    9. Traditional Pop    10. Vocal Jazz   

Crock O Xmas
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (02 September, 1997)
list price: $11.98
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Editorial Review

Nobody celebrates the holidays quite like this lovably disgusting television duo--which is probably a good thing. But when one too many feel-good family stories makes you want to run up to Aunt Gertie and ask her to pull your finger, save yourself the embarrassment and sidle up to this steaming Crock o' Christmas. The silly spirit is so contagious that you might just end up wanting to join Ren & Stimpy as they "Fleck the Walls," or take part in the little-known winter holiday of "Yak Shaving Day." At the very least, when the folks insist on caroling around the Yule log, you can amuse yourself by belting out your very own rendition of "The Twelve Days of Yaksmas," which is destined to become a family favorite. --David Sprague ... Read more

Reviews (7)

Learn how to celebrate Yaksmas!
If you liked the show then it's almost impossible not to enjoy this CD just as much!You see, it seems Ren & Stimpy don't celebrate Christmas, but rather Yaksmas.It's basically a warped version of Christmas and this CD goes into great detail of the story, traditions and joys of the holiday.From shaven yaks and cat hairballs to rubber nipple jokes, the songs are every bit as hilarious and off the wall as you remember the show.Some being spoofs of traditional carols and others original to this CD.But what really sets this apart from other comedy Christmas CD's (besides Ren & Stimpy themselves) are the clever interstitials between some of the songs.They make it feel like a 'lost episode' of Ren & Stimpy and give the set a sort-of story line.

BTW, this isn't just for kids.I was introduced to this CD by my 35 year old uncle.

if you love ren and stimpy, you have to have this!
i love ren and stimpy!i have been looking for ren and stimpy cd's,and thanks to amazon.com i did!i have you eediot (good by the way).i have been looking for radiodaze'and know i found it here!i just finished orderingcrock o' christmas , and i can't wait to get it!my next cd is going to beradio daze! well,i guess i have to say thanx amazon!!!bye!

if you love ren and stimpy, you have to have this!
i love ren and stimpy!i have been looking for ren and stimpy cd's,and thanks to amazon.com i did!i have you eediot (good by the way).i have been looking for radiodaze'and know i found it here!i just finished orderingcrock o' christmas , and i can't wait to get it!my next cd is going to beradio daze! well,i guess i have to say thanx amazon!!!bye! ... Read more

Asin: B00000344R
Subjects:  1. Christmas / Chanukkah    2. Pop   

Home for Christmas
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (06 October, 1992)
list price: $18.98
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Editorial Review

Amy Grant's Home for Christmas showcases her mellifluent vocal chops in a variety of settings and succeeds mightily. There's a sophisticated touch of Streisand in Grant's clear and bright timbre, but there's also a young tenderness and innocence there, as well, that captures peoples' hearts. Grant puts a batch of standards, more recent works by Carly Simon and David Foster, and her own songs through big but tasty orchestral swells, rock & roll reveries, acoustic pieces, and mild pop surroundings. Most surprising are Grant's two contributions (cowritten with Chris Eaton and Robert Marshal, respectively,) "Breath of Heaven/Mary's Song" and the powerful and humbling "Emmanuel, God with Us." Exquisitely produced and arranged, Home for Christmas is a highly rewarding mainstream Christmas masterpiece without flaw or pretense. --Martin Keller ... Read more

Reviews (51)

Some of my favorites....
This is a great collection of tunes but its Amy Grant and her
musical varitey that carry this Christmas classic way past most
of the sad bunch that pull up to musical Christmas traugh each
year. This one along with Vince Gill's classic "Let there be
peace on earth" and many of his second collection as well should
be in everyones collection. Its kinda funny how the two have gotten together and married and now create their own special
Christmas shows, like minds. I find this Amy Grant Christmas collection, HOME FOR CHRISTMAS
my favorite of the 3 she's put out but you can pick out many cuts
off of each to make a really outstanding burn. Home for Christmas can be played start to finish, its that good.

A holiday classic!
Listen to any radio station that plays continuous Christmas music around the holiday season, and you're bound to hear a song by Amy Grant at least once during the broadcast day.To be expected, since she's now released three Christmas albums.But on this, her second Christmas effort, released in 1992 on the heels of the multi-platinum pop breakthrough HEART IN MOTION, she pulls it off especially well.It's completely devoid of the "fluffy" pop stuff for which she's been reviled.The album features plenty of the usual burnt-to-a-crisp Christmas standards, including "Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas," "Winter Wonderland" and "O Come All Ye Faithful," but Amy puts her stamp on each of these to make them special."Winter Wonderland" features a nice, jazzy arrangement, and "O Come..." is highlighted by a strong vocal performance from Amy and a boy's choir in the background.Amy also covers David Foster and Natalie Cole's "Grown-Up Christmas List," which has since been recorded by everyone and his mother, and her version remains my favorite (there was also an accompanying video).(Sorry, Kelly Clarkson; this song is best handled by a non-"diva" singer.) There are also faithful remakes of Andy Williams' "It's The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year" and Carly Simon's "The Night Before Christmas" (which, being a Carly fan also, I definitely enjoyed).The real standouts on "Home For Christmas," though, are the originals."Emmanuel, God With Us" is haunting.Of course, "Breath Of Heaven (Mary's Song)" is the real classic.It's an account of how the Virgin Mary must have felt knowing that she was about to give birth to the Savior of the world.To this day, I can't listen to it without getting misty.It has deservedly since become a standard and has been recorded by several other artists, including Broadway star Barbara Cook and most recently by (oh, puh-leeeze) Jessica Simpson.That song alone is worth the price of this album.If you're looking for a Christmas album with an even mix of the secular and the spiritual and without the glitz, flash and vocal acrobatics of Mariah, Celine and the like, this album is for you.No surprise to me that it's still an airplay favorite at Christmas time these days.

One of my Top 10 Christmas CD's
This CD does everything well - the big orchestral arrangements that are fun and swingy, the hauntingly beautiful religious songs she wrote, the softer acoustic numbers.She doesn't make any bad choices here and there's maximum style with minimal schmaltz.I'd never purchased any of her music before but consider this in my top 10 of Christmas CD's, which is saying a lot because I've collected a ton of Christmas music over the years. ... Read more

Asin: B000002G0K
Subjects:  1. Adult Contemporary    2. CCM    3. Christmas    4. Christmas / Chanukkah    5. Holiday    6. Pop   

Holly & Ivy
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (25 October, 1994)
list price: $9.98
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Reviews (7)

xmas joy
i was givin this cd for pressie and i can say its a classic holly and the ivy and the other tracks are wot xmas is all about please treat urself to this cd honestly u will luv it --jo liverpool

Christmas love
This is my favorite Christmas CD.When I listen to no more blue Christmas's, it makes me think of all the people who don't have someone special to share the holidays with. Just when you are about to feel sad for these people the lyrics exalt when Natalie sings about Christmas getting better now that she has found someone, and no longer has to sign her Christmas cards all alone.

The little boy that Santa forgot reminds you to give to the toy charities during the holiday's.

There is not a bad song on the CD, and although I love the Mariah CD, this one seems to last longer, and truly makes you wonder why Ms. Natalie is not putting out albums every year.

JOY TO THE WORLD!!!
All of the songs are great on this, but Natalie's gospel like "Joy To The World" is the most rousing and uninhibitedly joyful rendition I've heard.I won't say it's the best, because there are several outstanding recordings of the carol, each of which bring out different perspectives.But this one is guaranteed to lift anybody's spirits.

The CD starts on a joyful note, and on the very first cut, you might find yourself singing "Jingle Bells" right along with her.However, she will touch your heart with her soft rendering of "Silent Night" and "The First Noel" among others.Two of the songs are closely identified, of course, with her father:The sentimental "The Little Boy That Santa Claus Forgot" and "The Christmas Song".Both are very beautifully presented here.

This is an essential Christmas CD. ... Read more

Asin: B000002HGK
Sales Rank: 43608
Subjects:  1. Christmas / Chanukkah    2. Pop   

A Christmas Together [Laserlight]
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (01 August, 1996)
list price: $5.98 -- our price: $5.98
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

The Muppets have sung with so many people over the years, from Elton John to Tony Bennett, yet it has always seemed like their performances with John Denver were somehow the perfect match. Christmas Together is a delightful--what else?--sing-along collection of Christmas favorites as performed by Denver and the Muppets ensemble. While the usual suspects have more than their say here--Kermit, Miss Piggy--the standout piece is "Twelve Days of Christmas." What could be better than a Muppet a day? Denver leads the critters through a tender "Silent Night," which comes couched in a medley that closes with a rousing "We Wish You a Merry Christmas." "Deck the Halls" is equally raucous--about as raucous as Muppets can get. Listen for the subtle lyric adaptations and the witty exchanges between Denver and his minstrels. Definitely not just for kids. --Steve Gdula ... Read more

Reviews (135)

A must-have, but missing some of its best
I had an old cassette tape of the original vinyl LP of "A Christmas Together," so I was thrilled to find it available on CD. As much as I love regaining access to this classic collection of Muppets, I was highly disappointed to learn that two of my favourite tracks, "Where the River Meets the Sea," and the touching and beautifully simple recording of Rolf (Jim Henson) and John Denver singing "Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas" are missing from this album. It's particularly sad to lose that track. Still, the rest are well-worth the owning, but I do wish that the studio would re-issue the CD with *all* the songs intact.

A Christmas Together - John Denver and the Muppets
My family and I have had this album for many years and I was so pleased I could finally find it on C.D.I will be purchasing two more so that both our children will have their own to share with their children.It is truly a Christmas tradition in our family.

Missing Songs
This CD is missing songs from the original soundtrack.When you select to hear certain songs from this website, it plays the songs that are missing. For example, "Little Saint Nick" is not on the CD along with some other songs.

... Read more

Asin: B000001VD4
Subjects:  1. Christmas    2. Christmas / Chanukkah    3. Folk-Rock    4. Holiday    5. Pop    6. Singer/Songwriter    7. Soft Rock   

A Very Special Christmas 3
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (07 October, 1997)
list price: $18.98 -- our price: $18.98
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Editorial Review

Part three of a series of records that benefits the Special Olympics, A Very Special Christmas 3 from 1997 is as excitingly eclectic as its predecessors. Though it features the likes of R&B chart toppers and hip-hoppers Mase, Puff Daddy, and Snoop Doggy Dogg and alt-rockers No Doubt, Smashing Pumpkins, , Blues Traveler, and others, the real standout performances belong to Jonny Lang, with his bawdy, barroom version of "Santa Claus Is Back in Town" and Sting, who delivers a proper reading of that old English carol "I Saw Three Ships." The showstopper, though, is Natalie Merchant's "Children, Go Where I Send Thee" in an arrangement so rich and compelling it may top even the many five-star versions of this African-American hymn that have come before it. --Martin Keller ... Read more

Reviews (30)

Not the strongest in the series
I was very impressed by the first two volumes in the series but this volume, while it has some great tracks, does not match those two although I like this set better now than when I first bought it some years ago.

The highlights for me are I saw three ships (Sting), Blue Christmas (Sheryl Crow), Christmas (Blues traveller), a Gallic version of Silent night (Enya), Santa Claus is back in town (Jonny Lang), Christmas is now drawing near at hand (Steve Winwood) and O holy night (Tracy Chapman). Most of the other tracks are OK but the version of Santa baby included here is definitely not my kind of music. I much prefer Madonna's version, to be found on the first volume in the series, or the original Eartha Kitt version from the fifties.

If you are a big fan of nineties pop and rock music, you may enjoy this more than I do - you may even enjoy it more than I do, as my taste in pop and rock is rooted in an earlier era. Otherwise, you are likely to feel (as I do) that this is not an essential purchase. You can contribute to the Special Olympics by purchasing the first two volumes (also filled mostly with pop and rock music) or the more recent Very special acoustic Christmas (filled with country and bluegrass music), all of which I reviewed long ago.

The best of the bunch, perfectly balanced
The third edition of the "A Very Special Christmas" series is for me the most significant.It's definitely very '90's just as the first version was very '80's, but that shouldn't be interpreted as a negative criticism.True, the first instinct of any contemporary rock/pop music fan is likely going to be "Blues Traveller/Hootie & The Blowfish/Tracy Champman?Who listens to those people anymore?"
...but recording original (or even standard) Christmas songs isn't about being current or cutting edge; it's about "making a joyful noise" and, in this case, raising some money for a particularly good cause.

The highlights are, in order, Sting's "I Saw Three Ships", which can't help but get anyone into a jovial mood (my daughter, age 7, particularly loves it...for her it's the title track for the whole CD), Natalie Merchant's "Children Go Where I Send Thee", brilliantly executed yet a bit tedious to listen to as it is a variation on the "Twelve Days Of Christmas" theme (repititious, repititious, repititious...you get the idea), No Doubt's hyperska cover of "Oi! To The World" (although this did take some time to grow on me...once I was able to deduce Gwen's lyrics -no easy task, they come fast and furious- I was able to enjoy the lighter side of the song), Sheryl Crow's breathy reinterpretation of "Blue Christmas" was particularly sultry...reminds me of Marilyn singing "Happy Birthday" to JFK, Blues Traveler's "Christmas" has to appeal to the inner cynic in everyone (it spoke specifically to me before my daughter was born), and Hootie & the Blowfish, whom I never particularly cared for durng their Huey-Lewis-&-The-News-esque run in the mid-'90's, have in fact done a version of "Christmas Song" sufficient to add extra warmth to any home and hearth.Chris Cornell's absolutely EPIC rendition of "Ave Maria" comes from out of nowhere and was an instant favorite, still is my favorite track off this album, Jonny Lang's version of "Santa Claus Is Back In Town" could never rival Elvis Presley's version (perhaps an unfair standard by which to compare anyone), but for someone hearingthe song for the first time, they are treated to a real potboiler.This guy can sing his @$$ off and can play a bit of guitar as well.And he was SIXTEEN when this was recorded?Not too bad at all, sunny Jim."Christmas Is Now Drawing Near At Hand" is terrific in the hands of Steve Winwood (an odd choice for this compilation; we wasn't exactly riding the crest of his popularity by this time)
...it is a fitting "for shame, ye sinners" approach that he delivers asthough from the pulpit itself.And Tracy Chapman has never sounded better than in her version of "O Holy Night".It's never been my favorite Christmas Carol, but after listening to her sing it it plays in my head for hours afterward.Quite possibly the best song on the entire CD.

Now...the other songs I don't find fault with...I can listen to them without feeling the need to skip through them."Christmas Time" is a lovely original, well-written and arranged, but I've never enjoyed listen to Billy Corgan sing; he may well be alt-rock's version of Bob Dylan in that he can write a song as well as anyone, but listening to that midwestern whingy twang is a discipline unto itself.The Reverend Run All-Stars and friendshave seemed to meld "Santa Baby and "Christmas In Hollis" from the first "A Very Special Christmas" album from 1987 and have made both songs poorer in this effort.Still the more I listen to it, the better it gets."Christmas In The City" by Mary J. Blige is nicely done, it conveys the vibe it seeks well enough and I definitely appreciate its jazzier aspects; it should be the soundtrack to any Christmas special directed by Martin Scorsese.Patti Smith and Enya's respective renditions of "We Three Kings" and "Silent Night" are interesting, but more atmospheric in nature and seem more new age than pop-influenced, and closing theCD with the gothic gloom that Smith gives her song is at best a questionable call.

I still find this to be the most consistent edition of the series, and as such it is the only one I own, even though generationally speaking the original album probably hits closer to home for me.Well-recommended mix of contemporary and classic songs given a current treatment that lasts long beyong the post-grunge/alternative music era from whence it came.Merry Christmas!

Holiday shopping time is here!
This & Edge of Christmas are CDs that are my top picks for modern holiday fare. AVSC3 is best re-ordered, with a few tracks omitted & a few on repeat. Here's my song x song review:

1/Sting: Perky opener, bubby upbeat vocals. Not bad.

2/Pumpkins: Love this great original, on it's way to being a modern day classic. Corgan's nasal voice works well here.

3/Merchant: Mellow, nice tone. Lilting spiritual-like quality.

4/Mase: Ick. Santa Baby=ultimate XMas song for non-singers. There've been better bad versions of this. Skip this mess.

5/No Doubt: I like Gwen & the gang, but half the time I skip this. Kind of a mosh-pit like energy, you really have to be in the mood. Placement on the CD stinks, too.

6/Crow: I usually like her, not so much here with another over-roasted holiday chestnut, nothing new's been added. Wouldn't an original been nicer?

7/Blues Traveler: All you've read about this track is correct. Gorgeous "round" singing, superb lonely lyrics. One of the best.

8/Enya: Not bad, but on the wrong CD.

9/Hootie-Blow: Hooterized version clearly only here due to the popularity of the band at the time. Can you say treacle? Stick to Mel Torme.

10/Cornell: Soundgarden/Audioslave's lead wailer seem like an odd fit? Nope, its a marriage made in heaven. Worth the $ just for this...the man can suuuure sing.

11/Blige: I don't think this fits here-what a letdown after Ave Maria. It would be best on a CD w/more urban or jazzy tracks.

12/Lang: Why? Cuz he was hot at the time. Skip & go right from Chris to Dave.

13/DMB: Oft played original is a new holiday faves. Hushed, reverant vocals, lush lyrics. Bet other artists cover this one...but like the Torme's Christmas Song, the 1st will always be the best.

14/Winwood: This'll sneak up on you. It's become my favorite song of the entire SERIES. Winwood is renowned for his "white soul boy" voice, and no where is it finer than on this glorious old melancholy carol. Heartbreaking. A must own tune.

15/Chapman: Great version of a religious classic; she does it proud.

16/Smith: Odd, & kind of dirgelike. Off placement-I'd not have chosen this for the finale of AVSC3.

Overall, this is a must-own due to superb #s 2,7,10,13,14,& 15; decent #s 1,3,6,16; & tolerable #s 5,8,11,12. Only 4 & 9 are skip at all costs misfires, but better than the average mix. Happy Holidays! ... Read more

Asin: B000002GOJ
Subjects:  1. Adult Alternative    2. Adult Alternative Pop/Rock    3. Adult Contemporary    4. Album Rock    5. Alternative Folk    6. Alternative Pop/Rock    7. American Trad Rock    8. Blue-Eyed Soul    9. Blues-Rock    10. Celtic New Age    11. Christmas    12. Christmas / Chanukkah    13. Club/Dance    14. College Rock    15. Contemporary Celtic    16. Contemporary Folk    17. Contemporary Instrumental    18. East Coast Rap    19. Ethnic Fusion    20. Hip-Hop    21. Holiday    22. Jam Bands    23. Modern Electric Blues    24. Pop    25. Pop-Soul    26. Pop/Rock    27. Post-Grunge    28. Singer/Songwriter    29. Ska-Punk    30. Third Wave Ska Revival    31. Urban    32. V/a Compilations   

These Are Special Times
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (03 November, 1998)
list price: $17.97 -- our price: $17.97
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

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

Reviews (222)

Wonderful Chhristmas CD
I have owned this Celine Dion Christmas CD since it was released for Christmas 1998. I love it and listen to it every year during CHristmas. Her voice is beautiful and I love her version of O' Holy Night, and I love some of her original songs escpecially Christmas Eve. My whole family enjoys this album. Sometimes we even listen to it when it is not Christmas. Celine is great and is a wonderful singer.

Excellent holiday music!
This is one of my personal favorite seasonal CD's. Celine sings these songs with her usual power and emotion, so that anyone can enjoy them. It's a beautiful collection. I find the greatest song on the album to be "Christmas Eve." The rest of it is a fine combination of classic favorites and newer ones that may become classics as well. "Feliz Navidad" is a fun and refreshing track too. Thumbs up to Celine's contribution to holiday music.

A Beautiful Christmas Album
I think Celine Dion's Christmas album is perfect for the times.Oddly, I play it even when it isn't Christmas.Each song is lovely.I'm only saddened by the fact that she went "Las Vegas."But I don't want to get started on that subject.It's Christmas time and I can truly enjoy the season with this beautiful selection by Celine. ... Read more

Asin: B00000DHR0
Subjects:  1. Adult Contemporary    2. Christmas    3. Christmas / Chanukkah    4. Pop    5. Soft Rock   

Christmas In The Stars: Star Wars Christmas Album
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (15 October, 1996)
list price: $11.98
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Reviews (29)

Depends on who you are...
If you're the sort of person who gets told "Lighten Up!" a lot, we'd probably all be better off if you skip this one.

On the other hand, this is a marvelous album for scaring people who desperately need to lighten up.

This Will Make You Question Your Faith
Listen to the "wookiee for christmas" clip....just listen to it....it has made me become an aehteist....because if He did exist, he would not allow such filth to be produced....

Childhood Christmas
I used to play this album on my dad's record player over and over from mid November until Christmas.I still know almost every word by heart and I'm 30 years old!When I saw that it was out on CD I had to have it.I cannot wait to play it for my kids!You don't even have to like Star Wars to enjoy this classic Christmas album. ... Read more

Asin: B0000033VG
Sales Rank: 20311
Subjects:  1. Christmas    2. Christmas / Chanukkah    3. Holiday    4. Pop   

Now That's What I Call Christmas!
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (23 October, 2001)
list price: $19.98 -- our price: $14.99
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

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

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

Reviews (92)

60% Classic Tunes
I must admit, I was skeptical when I saw the "NOW" series was putting out a Christmas collection.But I was pleasantly surprised at the song selection. In fact, just about every song on Disc 1, and the first four songs on Disc 2, qualify as true Christmas pop classics.About the only classic songs missing are "The Chipmunk Song" and Harry Simeone Chorale's "Little Drummer Boy".I can't think of another single Christmas CD that can top Disc 1's collection of classics.But once we hit Michael Bolton on Disc 2, the timeless quality evaporates.Yes, there are some good, more contemporary tunes, but they don't measure up to the long string of Christmas hits preceding them.Maybe time will tell if they acquire the beloved status that "White Christmas" and "Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer" have.I do recommend this collection, though, even if, like me, you end up playing the first disc at lot more than the second.

The Next Great Christmas Classic
The CD is great. The first song You should listen to is Jingle Bell Rock. I recommend You will like it. Even love it. The CD has 2 CDS Featuring Winter Wonderland,Santa Claus Is Comin' To Town,Jingle Bell Rock,Jingle Bells,Deck The Halls and a lot more.This CD is definitely a must-have. Disc 1 is a great compilation of all the classics, while disc 2 features some of the 'newer' talents.

ALSO RECOMMENDED: Mehdi - Christmas Treasures... A True Gem !

Now, it looked promising.
Disc 1 looks fabulous... these are mostly songs I've heard for years or maybe only a couple that I don't mind hearing every year. They do start it off with some of my favorite classics by Nat King Cole, Bing Crosby, & Elvis. I also really like the tracks by the Beach Boys, Carpenters, & David Bowie/Crosby. Disc 1 is definitely for older generations & for those of us (like myself) who prefer the older renditions of Christmas songs.
Disc 2 I'm not so sure about. For the most part, it's been hard to sincerely like "modernized" versions of Christmas songs, particularly ones that have come out in the past 15-20 years. They just usually come out too "poppy" & take the spirit of the song away, but there are a few I do like. Band Aid is an instant like if you love new wave (like I do) & you can't get that addicting synth line out of your head. Except for a few others that might be worth a listen, I wouldn't bother with the 2nd disc at all. I will certainly never waste my $$ with ANYTHING by the talentless britney or n'stink. Couldn't they have put someone else MUCH better that actually has talent?? They just ruined it. Such a shame....

If I could just buy disc 1, I'd be happy, but I wouldn't buy this as a set. I'm better off making mix cds myself, & I think I already did that with most the songs on disc 1. And ya, for whoever was complaining, I don't like "Grandma got run over by a reindeer" song (period) either. I get the humor, but I still don't have to like it.

... Read more

Asin: B00005OLYC
Subjects:  1. Adult Contemporary    2. Ballads    3. Christmas    4. Christmas / Chanukkah    5. Holiday    6. Pop    7. Pop/Rock    8. Rock & Roll    9. Standards    10. Swing    11. Traditional Pop    12. Vocal Jazz    13. Vocal Pop