Home for Christmas
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (06 October, 1992)
list price: $18.98
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

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   

Aaron Neville's Soulful Christmas
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (05 October, 1993)
list price: $18.98
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Logic would dictate that if Aaron Neville can't make it a soulful Christmas, nobody can. Neville's one of the only mere mortals who can actually deliver on the old saw about having a voice so sweet he could sing the phone book. Problem is that Neville, who is notorious for making the wrong career choices, probably would sing the phone book if someone signed the check. Consequently, even though he includes the typical standards on Soulful Christmas, they still ring true with his magical voice. "Such a Night" and "Louisiana Christmas Day," however, stand out with soul and are required additions to any funky holiday party mix. --Michael Ruby ... Read more

Reviews (20)

The Best Christmas Album
Aaron Neville's Soulful Christmas is a must have.He has the voice of an angel; I've never heard anyone do Christmas better than Aaron.

This cd is christmas for me.
Hands down, this is the best christmas album available.Classics (like Christmas Song, Silent Night, etc) mixed with Neville's own take on christmas (Louisiana Christmas Day, Such a Night) make an incredible cd.It is not really christmas until this cd is playing in the backgroud and you're sipping eggnog with your family.

Great Christmas CD
Some of the best Christmas standards sung by the man with the voice of an angel.Can't be beat and I've listened to just about all the Christmas music around. ... Read more

Asin: B000002G1V
Subjects:  1. Christmas    2. Christmas / Chanukkah    3. Holiday    4. New Orleans R&B    5. Pop    6. Pop-Soul    7. Soul   

The Edge of Christmas
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (15 August, 1995)
list price: $3.98 -- our price: $3.98
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

A middle-of-the-road rock and pop assortment, The Edge of Christmas repackages chestnuts such as Bing and Bowie crooning "Peace on Earth/Little Drummer Boy" and Dave Edmunds's version of Chuck Berry's classic "Run Run Rudolph." In between there are marginal readings of "Please Come Home for Christmas" from Pat Benatar, "Winter Wonderland" by the Cocteau Twins, and Queen's "Thank God It's Christmas." The real treasures are the Pretenders' "2,000 Miles," a wistful, tender lament about being away from loved ones during the holidays, and the Waitresses' zesty minor classic "Christmas Wrapping." The scruffiest gem is the Pogues' "Fairytale in New York," with animated vocals traded by Shane MacGowan and Irish folk-rocker Kirsty MacColl. Listening to it is like watching a vitriolic pageant with crooked bells on. --Martin Keller ... Read more

Reviews (13)

a winner - trust me
a good christmas cd to me has either 1) new songs with off-beat lyrics or 2) traditional songs updated, say, with a rock tempo.this cd delivers both.every cut has something going for it.the eerie first cut by 'queen,' which i had never heard before, had me hooked. the production quality of this album is superb.it will make good use of latest technology in speakers and headphones.you are gonna love this one!

good antidote for boring Christmas music
If I have to live in a world where John Tesh and Barbra Streisand have dueling Christmas CDs then this CD makes life bearable. Great songs, only one I grit my teeth through is Kate Bush (sorry, but I am the one person who didn't like her in the 80's and still don't, so there). My favorite is the Queen song and the Pogues are great too. How can you not like a song that starts off in the drunk tank on Christmas Eve?

Over "The Edge..."
This 43 year old male loves this CD.I actually have worn out (little scratches) my first one from playing it so much and ordered 5 copies to keep as back-ups (in a safe!)in case they ever stop making this CD.It is such a great blend of songs.My favorite HAS to be the David Bowie and Bing Crosby duet.I saw them singing it live on TV a million years ago and the song has haunted me since then.I was so happy to find it on this CD.

A great and unique gift that I listen to all year. ... Read more

Asin: B000001J70
Subjects:  1. Alternative Pop/Rock    2. Christmas    3. Christmas / Chanukkah    4. College Rock    5. Hard Rock    6. Holiday    7. New Wave    8. Pop   

Rock & Roll Christmas [PSM]
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (23 September, 1997)
list price: $9.98
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Reviews (11)

A small but decent collection of Christmas rock songs
"Rock N' Roll Christmas" is not a bad little collection given the asking price for these eleven songs.As soon as you look over the play list you realize that these are almost all original songs, with The Moody Blues simple version "What Child Is This?" and Elvin Bishop's cover of "Silent Night" as the exceptions.For me the one must have track is "I Believe in Father Christmas" by Emerson, Lake & Palmer, which is my all time in this particular crossbred category.But Elton John's "Step into Christmas" is another classic well worth the having, and Jon Bon Jovi's "I Wish Everyday Could Be Like Christmas" is almost as good.Beyond that the question is how much tolerance you have for Christmas songs with a rock beat, because that is what you get from Bob Seger, George Thorogood, Chuck Berry, and most of the rest of this crew.The final endorsement I can give for this collection is that except for the ELP song none of the other ten tracks duplicates what I already have in my Christmas music library, which I would have said was rather difficult to do.There is a second volume following this one, but the original is at least a full star better.

OUT OF THE ORDINARY CHRISTMAS COLLECTION !
This CD is great to purchase as an "add-on" to your XMAS collection.

You'll find the track "Father Christmas" from the progressive rock act ELP. That track played on most TOP 40 radio stations during the mid 1970s. Also included on this collection is the uptempto ELTON JOHN classic "STEP INTO CHRISTMAS" (another favorite with top 40 radio in the mid 1970s).

If you want a XMAS collection to play that will cut into the classics from previous years, I suggest that you try this CD.

It's About Time!
This is the Christmas album I've been waiting for!Finally, an album that isn't every Christmas standard being done by a rock group.These are (almost all) original songs, penned by some of the best in the business.I think "I Believe in Father Christmas" is good enough to be called a new standard.Give us more!After all, Jethro Tull released at least 4 Christmas songs.How long do we need to wait to get a "Vol. 2?" ... Read more

Asin: B000001DQE
Sales Rank: 124867
Subjects:  1. Christmas    2. Christmas / Chanukkah    3. Pop    4. Rock & Roll   

Bon Temps Noel: Swamp Beat Christmas
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (10 October, 2000)
list price: $14.98 -- our price: $14.98
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Reviews (1)

com"YULE"ation Cleric : Jambalaya Jamboree Jingles
I was a click`n through the holiday catalog late one night looking for Yultide Treasure and this recording caught my eye and ear. With the liner cover ya` can sense the contents are slightly askew of the tradtionalist approach , yet the track listing suggested further appraisement.I linked to where clips of this band played and received the hook. First listen, hunch turned out true, some great ear candy here. Throughout this recording there is this swamp beat undertone that picks your spirit up and floats the cares away.Upon a few go rounds you can discern that the band and all special guests had crafted a great jamboree testimonial to aid in seasonal celebrating.With eight instrumental tracks I think you`ll find plenty of time for your mind's reasoning to become uncomplicated by the Delta's simple yet intoxicating charm.Merrily Mix~ 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10 and 11 ~ no bahhumbugs here~ Post Script:With this band heralding from the West Coast the analogy of a Creedence Clearwater Revival Christmas seems best. For the Sundogs a five star rating would certainly been bagged if they had found room for at least one more track.***buyit*saveit*shareit*giveit*donateit*** ... Read more

Asin: B00001XDPD
Sales Rank: 301738
Subjects:  1. Christmas    2. Christmas / Chanukkah    3. Holiday    4. Pop   

Good News
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (07 December, 2000)
list price: $16.98 -- our price: $14.99
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Kathy Mattea's lovely, strong vocals, coupled with uplifting arrangements, make Good News an especially rich and deep spiritual testament. "There's a New Kid in Town" is the highpoint of this 1993 outing, but "Christ Child's Lullaby" and the title track really showcase the soulful and smart Mattea. In time, this might prove to be a seasonal country classic. --Martin Keller ... Read more

Reviews (45)

Good News
Kathy does an excellent job on Mary Did You Know?. I just saw her in concert and on the encore she sang this song and it is even more wonderful in person!! This is an excellent compact disc to add to your collection of Christmas music.

The CD for the Reason for the season
No fluffy Christmas covers here. Until I purchased this CD, as a gift for my parents, I never realized how fantastic a singer Kathy Mattea is. So, now I have the CD for myself too.
The arrangements on this album are fabulous, the songs wonderful and you can tell by the way she sings the songs that Ms. Mattea is an extremely spiritual person.
If you believe that Jesus is the reason for the season, do yourself a favor, buy this CD.
"Mary, Did You Know" is my favorite track and explains everything.
Merry Christmas!!!!!

Simply the best Christmas CD
I've owned this CD a very long time. I originally purchased it the year it came out and fell in love with the whole album. Each song is uniquely beautiful and well done. This album rarely leaves my stereo during the holidays. My personal favorite is "Brightest and Best". I love the arrangement. I HIGHLY recommend this one. ... Read more

Asin: B000001E1A
Subjects:  1. Christmas / Chanukkah    2. Contemporary Country    3. Country-Folk    4. Country-Pop    5. Pop   

Merry Christmas...Have a Nice Life!
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (27 October, 1998)
list price: $9.98
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Cyndi Lauper has reinvented herself once again, penning a handful of original Christmas carols and cornball ditties with writing partner Jan Pulsford and recording them at home while her infant son Declyn slept. (The almost-year-old Decyln can be heard jabbering and gurgling on "New Year's Baby [First Lullaby]".) The antic Lauper who first revealed that "Girls Just Want to Have Fun" in 1983 is still in evidence, spiking the season with her endearing comic voice and calypso time signatures on such standouts as "Christmas Conga" and the bawdy "Minnie and Santa." But the standards "Three Ships" and "Silent Night" really shine, revealing a depth and emotion that was in evidence on Lauper's tender "Time After Time." --Jaan Uhelszki ... Read more

Reviews (31)

Have a Creole, Cajun, Celtic and Coptic Christmas....
When Cyndi Lauper's MERRY CHRISTMAS...HAVE A NICE LIFE was first released back in '98, I remember reading some capsule review in some popular magazine or other (maybe PEOPLE?) to the effect that it was surprisingly good, better than it "had a right to be," in fact.Huh?Is that a compliment?

I imagine the reviewer thought he was being pretty darn generous to a performer, whom he no doubt recalled as being basically a novelty act from the early MTV days.What's frustrating about reviews like this is that they seldom reference any previous recording other than SHE'S SO UNUSUAL (or, if you're lucky, TRUE COLORS).Cyndi's 90s work(HAT FULL OF STARS and SISTERS OF AVALON) had demonstrated a maturing talent (not that the "immature" stuff was bad--far from it).It's just that, had anybody been bothering to listen, they would have known that she was an artist to be taken seriously and a force to be reckoned with.

Unfortunately, too many had written her off prematurely.And by 1998, her record company was pretty much ready to show her the door.She had one record left on her contract with SONY (who hadn't been offering much in the way of support anyway).Cyndi had gone out touring in '97, opening for Tina Turner, and giving it her all while visibly pregnant...and the record company could scarcely be bothered to promote her excellent SISTERS OF AVALON.A Christmas album seemed like a handy way to meet the terms of the contract and for artist and record company to bid each other adieu.

Christmas CDs are usually lower budget affairs (I'm told) and as it happened, Cyndi already had a couple of Christmas themed tracks in the can anyway.Actually, "Feels Like Christmas" from HAT FULL OF STARS is really more of a love song than a true holiday song, but it had the Noel thing going on in the title and a nice bounce (one of the more upbeat tracks on what was otherwise Cyndi's most serious record to date)."Early Christmas Morning" had appeared on the Japanese version of SISTERS OF AVALON, so that only meant eight or nine new tracks at the most.

It could have been a knock-off, folks, but Cyndi Lauper's sense of artistry and adventure knows few if any bounds, and musically, HAVE A NICE LIFE (the title obviously being something of a kiss-off to SONY) continues to explore the same musical terrain as the previous two records.Queens born Cyndi comes by her multi-culturalism naturally,You've got a little Zydeco here, a little Island music and her version of "Silent Night" starts off with some Mid-Eastern strains, which only begs the question, why hasn't anybody done anything like this before. But that's the closer, let's go back to the beginning.

It's been said that the best Christmas music is tinged with melancholy, and Cyndi's opener "Home for Christmas Day,"replete with ringing Byrds-like guitar, is something of a rock rewrite of "I'll Be Home For Christmas."(Ever notice how many holiday albums BEGIN with the latter song: Cyndi honors the tradition in her unique way by starting off with her own updated, similary themed carol.)Then it's off to Cajun-inflected "Early Christmas Morning" and Cajun-Caribbean mix on "Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree (a wink and a nod to Brenda Lee--a singer she was often compared to back in the day). The fun continues with "Christmas Conga" and the winning, slightly ribald novelty "Minnie and Santa."Gradually, though, the all the spirited fun begins to give way to a more serious, solemn and (dare we say it?) spiritual mood.

Two songs in row celebrating Cyndi's recent motherhood?Why not? It might be a little much for some artists, but for one as open hearted and honest as Cyndi Lauper, it works.I've had a few "Well, I dunno about this moments" with Cyndi's ballads before (including classics like "Time After Time" and "True Colors"), but they always win me over eventually."New Year's Baby (First Lullabye)" and "December Child" are no different, delicate songs that avoid slipping into the precious by dint of Cyndi's sheer conviction.

After starting out on such a sunny, tropical note, the album ends on an appropriately winterlike note with the Celtic flavored "In the Bleak Midwinter" and a relatively stark reading of "Silent Night."From the festive to the hauntingly fragile...Cyndi Lauper sums up the season. Definitely, not a knock-off.

Fast forward to 2003-2004, Cyndi's back with SONY (at least for now), doing the standards thing (but definitely doing them her way), and now the record company has now come out with a remastered version of this album.I haven't heard the new version yet, but it did actually seem as though this yuletide offering, delightful as it is, could have used some brightening (of sound and spirit).Looks like everyone may just be having a nice life after all.

The Best Christmas CD in Years
All the credit should go to that vastly underrated performer with the crystal clear pipes- Cyndi Lauper. Most of the songs on this CD are written by Cyndi, including the already classic rocker "Home On Christmas Day," the beautiful "December Child," and the reggae charged "Christmas Conga." I even put this CD in my player throughout the entire year, whether it's Christmas or not, it's that good. While most of my other Christmas albums have been collecting dust, Cyndi Lauper's is on constant play. You have to check this one out.

So mad at myself!
This excellent cd was released in 1998 and I'm just now getting around to buying it in 2004. After just a few listens I know all the songs and can't wait to hear them again.

1. Home on Christmas Day - vintage 80's Cyndi pop song. Sweet with a bit of an edge. Catchy chorus.
2. Early Christmas Morning - Catchy song with a children's chorus.
3. Rockin Around the Christmas Tree - You know this one. Done in a fun style.
4. Christmas Conga - goofy fun, lots of humor.
5. Minnie and Santa - Bawdy little sea shanty with a great sense of humor.
6. Feels Like Christmas - This was previously released on another album, great any time of the year.
7. Three Ships - Here's where the tone changes. Really interesting take on a song you don't hear much on pop Christmas albums.
8. New Year's Baby (First Lullaby)- This is so touching and beautiful - the lyrics seem odd at first and then you get caught up in the moment of her singing to her new baby, and get to hear him gurgling in the background. Just a gorgeous song about the passage of time.
9. December Child - Lovely spiritual song, telling her newborn son about another baby whose birth is celebrated in December.
10. In the Bleak Midwinter - Haunting, beautiful.
11. Silent Night - Beautiful rendition.

There is such a range of emotion in these 11 songs from this multi-faceted performer, but the album as a whole flows beautifully. Do yourself a favor and don't let any more time pass before you get it for yourself.
... Read more

Asin: B00000DFU2
Subjects:  1. Christmas    2. Christmas / Chanukkah    3. New Wave    4. Pop    5. Pop/Rock   

Bullseye Blues Xmas
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (03 October, 1995)
list price: $16.98
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Reviews (1)

com"YULE"ation Cleric :SeasonalStraightShooting
Bha-dha-bing Bullseye ~ A quiver filled with the sharp contemporary seasonal Blues ,a good ideal of "how to" for a label com"YULE"ation. I really like how each release flies from a different sub-genera of the Blues, variety is good .The com"YULE"ation coodinator did the job with a fine shooting order, the movement between style,tempo,and spirit is with aim toward truth. The inclusion of six new tracks, yeah some are a "new" variation of familar seasonal hits so what, show the progression of originality Blue`s fans have come to expect.Take an arrow with tracks 1,2,3,4,8,9,and 10 , while 5,6,7,and 11 the point maybe slightly blunted. Post Script~ Real Good that could have been Real Great if the quiver held at least one more.Perhaps with the shaft of an instrumental,or additional tracks with more feminine angelic vocalization to aid in seasonal balance.***buyit*saveit*shareit*giveit*donateit*** ... Read more

Asin: B0000004BQ
Sales Rank: 214127
Subjects:  1. Christmas / Chanukkah    2. Pop    3. V/a Compilations   

A Very Special Christmas 3
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (07 October, 1997)
list price: $18.98 -- our price: $14.99
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

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   

Christmas the Season of Love
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (25 August, 1998)
list price: $17.98 -- our price: $17.98
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Reviews (11)

Excellent
4HIM's exquisite harmonies make The Season of Love a must-have Christmas album. 4HIM breathes new life into Christmas classics and contribute new originals that are destined to become classics. Up-tempo renditions of numbers such as "Do You Hear What I Hear" may initially seem strange to those used to a more traditional sound, but 4HIM's innovation brings a freshness to oft-rendered favorites. They effectively capture the warm spirit of Christmas without ever seeming cliched. The biggest highlight of the disc is the closer, "Strange Way to Save the World", a rumination on Christ's birth from Joseph's viewpoint that drives home the true meaning of the "season of love."

Our Family's Favorite Christmas Album
My title says it all.We get this album out on Thanksgiving while we're putting up our million trees and listen to it throughout the season.We've lost the cd in our move and are now back for another.4 Him's incredible harmonies are so highlighted here in this album it just really feels like "Christmas" when you listen to it.I wasn't sure about "Do You Hear What I Hear" since it's one of my favorites and they do an upbeat version, but I really like it now and find myself singing it throughout the year.Make sure this one is in your collection of Christmas albums.I'm sure it will become a family favorite.

Heartwarming Modern Classic
There's something about the holidays, Christmas in particular, that makes many of us just a little misty eyed.Whether it's the cookies, the gifts, the time with family and friends, or the music, something about it tugs at the heartstrings and makes us take notice. 4Him in their only Christmas album has done just that.Combining secular and sacred, old and new, they have created an offering that can appeal to all the various facets of our holiday experience.As with any album, some songs are better than others, and the preference for each should be left to the individual. However, the mix is quite well done, and the update of updated arrangements of several Christmas favorites will leave you wanting more.It's an all around good album, one you defiantly don't want to miss. ... Read more

Asin: B0000005DD
Sales Rank: 171033
Subjects:  1. CCM    2. Christmas    3. Christmas / Chanukkah    4. Classical    5. Contemporary Gospel    6. Holiday   

Just Say Noel
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (29 October, 1996)
list price: $10.98
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Good cheer is in limited supply among alt-rockers, but Just Say Noel is a small, charming garland with a couple of solidly terrific originals: Beck's long, loony "The Little Drum Machine Boy" takes a few well-known lines and spirals off into a groovy stream of consciousness, and Elastica's "Gloria" is one of their finest rockers. There are some unexpected cover choices, too: the Roots do De La Soul's grim "Millie Pulled a Pistol on Santa," and Sonic Youth dig up Martin Mull's "Santa Doesn't Cop Out on Dope."Beyond that, the disc is split between warm renditions of well-known numbers and overproduced goop, but Ted Hawkins's deep, wrenching solo version of "Amazing Grace" shouldn't be missed. --Douglas Wolk ... Read more

Reviews (4)

com"YULE"ation Cleric :JustSayOhhh~Welll
Like the indispensable fruitcake this com"YULE"ation of late 9o`s alt-minstrels will remain fresh long after the Tannebaum turns brown. Modern-millennial-mirth-makers may even refer to these recordings as time-honored classics for many have such originalty. As it stands now, this disc is anchored by the Top Ten cross-genra track "Thanks for Christmas" from XTC, which also receives multiple inclusion elsewhere. But by no means is that the only starlight, as these songs grow on ya. If the listener enjoys a smorgasbord of stylings they`ll thrill with this discovery under the tree. Merrily Mix tracks 1,2,4,5,6,8,9,10,11,and 12. Post Script: I would like to thank the elfxecutive producers for "LAYing YOUR HANDS ON ME" by packaging songs from so many labels that benfit~ "A camera in the Right Hands at the Right Time at the Right Place can be more powerful than tanks and guns. Let the truth do the fighting." - Peter Gabriel. Posted Script: While riding this seasonal sleigh I`ve noted that paid rock critics and rock industry mucky-mucks tend to lack sincerity more so than thier contemporaries. In a true new millennium there would be more than just a handful of offerings each year.***buyit*saveit*sharemost*giveit*donateit***

Get only if you are a Beck fanatic
The Xmas tunes on this compilation are weak.The Beck tune is cool, but the other tunes are passable.

Much better than it sounds
Better than it has any right to be, this collection of unusual Xmas songs by Beck, Sonic Youth, Xtc and others puts the SPECIAL CHRISTMAS cd's for Special Olypmics to shame. Be forewarned, though--you need a sense of humorto appreciate these sometimes twisted Christmas songs. ... Read more

Asin: B000000OW1
Subjects:  1. 90's    2. Adult Alternative Pop/Rock    3. Alternative Pop/Rock    4. Christmas    5. Christmas / Chanukkah    6. College Rock    7. Experimental Rock    8. Hip-Hop    9. Indie Rock    10. Jazz-Rap    11. Pop    12. Pop Underground    13. Singer/Songwriter   

Billboard Rock N Roll Christmas
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (20 September, 1994)
list price: $9.98 -- our price: $9.98
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Reviews (6)

Thank God
I'm not sure how these particular songs came to be chosen for this CD.The Billboard CD series supposedly features the highest charting songs, based on the Billboard music charts.Well, most of the songs on this particular CD didn't make the Billboard charts at all!Only the Billy Squire, Beach Boys, Canned Heat and Cheech & Chong tracks actually charted.They really should have included Bruce Springsteen's "Santa Claus is Comin' to Town" and John Lennon's "Happy Xmas (War is Over)", but they probably were unable to license those particular songs.But to be fair, Billboard didn't have Christmas charts every year, so many of the songs here probably would have charted if Billboard published Christmas charts during the years the songs came out.Regardless of all that, this is a good collection of rock and roll Christmas songs.Not perfect, by any means, but still a solid collection.

A nice Christmas rock album, even with the comedy tracks
There is much to commend "Billboard Rock N Roll Christmas," starting with the opening track of Queen's "Thank God It's Christmas."Billy Squier's "Christmas is the Time to Say 'I Love You'" and George Thorogood & the Destroyer's "Rock and Roll Christmas" certainly get the place hopping.But then we have Weird Al Yankovic's "Christmas at Ground Zero."Now, I love Weird Al and I know all the words to this song, but it is just out of place in this collection (and I have expressed similar concerns on other Christmas collections when a novelty song is thrown into the mix).Then we are back on track with Foghart and some old chestnuts that have been roasting on the fire for a long time with offerings from the Kinks, the Beach Boys, and Canned Heat. Then we have Cheech & Chong's "Santa Claus and His Old Lady" routine.At least coming at the end of the album it is not as much of a distraction, but I find it impossible to believe Billboard could not have come up with a couple of other choice rock 'n' roll Christmas songs without the comedy.Those caveats aside, this is a solid little Christmas rock collection that should easily add five songs worth having to your music library, not to mention a classic Cheech & Chong routine.

Many Christmas chestnuts from the 60s 70s 80s
A wonderful and varied collection of Yuletide cheer from our friends at Rhino. From The Beach Boys to Canned Heat to Billy Squier, this includes quite a variety of styles to go under the banner "rock and roll". George Thorogood's "Rock and Roll Christmas" is one of the very best Christmas songs of the past couple of decades and The Kinks' "Father Christmas" still sounds great after a quarter century. It should be noted that on this disc, the Foghat track is longer than it is on the "Christmas With Eddie G" disc and this version is far superior. Also worth mentioning is the superb sequencing of the disc. Were the Queen track anywhere else, it would drop the mood level considerably. But it makes a great opener. ... Read more

Asin: B0000033DT
Sales Rank: 97562
Subjects:  1. 70's    2. 80's    3. Album Rock    4. Arena Rock    5. Blues-Rock    6. Boogie Rock    7. Christmas    8. Christmas / Chanukkah    9. Hard Rock    10. Holiday    11. Pop    12. Pop/Rock    13. Rock & Roll   

Holidays in Dementia
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (24 October, 1995)
list price: $17.98
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Dr. Demento is an archivist elf of the first order. Testament to his timeworn ways is this collection of fractured holidays tunes and his earlier The Greatest Christmas Novelty CD of All Time. The good Doc showcases 17 tunes here, although the collection could do without nearly a quarter of those, including Joseph Spence's oddity "Santa Claus is Coming to Town" and the Waitresses' "Christmas Wrapping." The latter is a pop-rap tune that sounds pretty tame in the cracked company of the inimitable Bob Rivers ("The Twelve Pains of Christmas"), Spike Jones (sending up New Year's resolutions), and Father Guido Sarducci ("Santa's Lament"). Then there's James &Kling's perverse "A Terrorist Christmas," as well as a couple of loopy Hanukkah tunes, one a rap number by Doc Mo She and the other from Gefilte Joe & the Fish. --Martin Keller ... Read more

Reviews (7)

Funny, but not for smaller kids
The songs are fun, especially if you are really tired of the traditional Xmas songs.Many of the pieces are not for elementary-age kids.

As always a wonderful trip to dementia
Life just wouldn't be the same without Dr. Demento and listening to Holiday in Dementia provides the Christmas touch. And yes I love the old stand-bys but when you need a smile Dr. D is ready with one of his funny albums.

com"YULE"ation Cleric : BoffoPackage .
Longtime sonic cleric compiles another seasonal offering filled with ha ha gems from attracted artists and performers jump`in upon the Holiday Parody Hit Parade's biggest bandwagon. With the leg work done for ya, rest back and have some fun with these delightful soundings from the 6o`s , 7o`s , 8o`s and early 9o`s. For a YULEtide Treasure Seeker or those in The Know this here disc is a keeper, as many a merry tune make their only mass market release. A word of caution - the continuation of cherishable grin cracking and\or belly laughs from year to year may vanish if an over "ear" indulgence is applied.~~Merrily Mix~~ 4# , 5# , 6#1\2 , 7# , 10@1\2 , 15# , and 17@ ~~Post Script: Liner notes are informative and forethoughtfully describe many a tune`s odessy from obscurity, kinda what we`ve come to expect from the Doctor. ... Read more

Asin: B0000033NK
Subjects:  1. Christmas / Chanukkah    2. Comedy Rock    3. Halloween    4. Musical Comedy    5. Nostalgia    6. Novelty    7. Pop    8. Pop/Rock   

The Last Month of the Year [Collector's Choice]
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (10 October, 2000)
list price: $15.98 -- our price: $14.99
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Reviews (24)

Takes Me Back to Simpler Times...
In my family, this was the definitive 'Christmas Album', even more so than the Firestone records..From the first notes, you can envision early-60's "Fraternity Row" before Kennedy's death in those waning times when things were still uncomplicated, where you could actually focus on Christmas and the spirit that came in the weeks before it.

I had lost my original copy of the album long ago, and had purchased a replacement on eBay, but this version on CD is so faithfully recorded...and you hear so many new things you could not pickup on those LP's 40 years ago.

A powerful Christmas album, a yearly tradition worthy to be passed on.

One of my favorite holiday albums, but overpriced now...
I bought everything by the Trio starting in 1959, when I was 15 and discovered folk-style singing. This was a record I played to death every December for 10 or 15 years, until it wore out. I have not purchased the CD because as much as I love the 30-minute program, it is not worth a dollar a song. Perhaps it is a case of my being more interested in bargains than in nostalgia. Some other reviewers are correct in that the tunes are mostly done for quiet beauty rather than for joyful spirit, but still, they are sung well. I still want this, but for about half of what the current market seems to bear. If you can afford it and you like folk-flavored Yule songs, this is a winner, with a couple of songs you probably won't find anywhere else, ever.

Weak
This was a disapointing CD. The song selection was not that good. Original and not often recorded Christmas songs are rare, but they need to be good, these were not. The songs just seemed to droan on and on. None of the snap these guys are known for. The second problem is the way it was recorded. While I am no big fan of Mega Bass Surround sound, this CD sounded like it was recorded in a tin room with tin instruments. It was just so thin I found that I had to crank up the bass and I rarely do that.

If you like Folk Christmas music one of the best one's at Amazon is "Christmas with the New Christy Minstrels: Complete."2 CD's in one case and the first one is absolutely fantastic. Mostly original songs that are good, upbeat, and Christmas sentimental but no droaning on and on. Better recording quality too. Check it out. ... Read more

Asin: B00002JV2C
Sales Rank: 50110
Subjects:  1. Christmas    2. Christmas / Chanukkah    3. Folk-Pop    4. Holiday    5. Pop   

Christmas Island
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (05 October, 1999)
list price: $7.98 -- our price: $7.98
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

It never snows in the Florida Keys, but as every Parrothead knows, Jimmy Buffett was born on Christmas Day 1946. His Caribbean folk tunes have always had a festive air to them, and his Coral Reefer Band tackle these holiday songs in their usual laidback style. Buffett turns out both traditional carols ("Jingle Bells" with a few tropical ad-libs) and his own myth-building originals ("A Sailor's Christmas," "Merry Christmas, Alabama"). This may not be the traditional Christmas fare of chestnuts roasting on an open fire, but for those who enjoy ocean breezes and "wasting away" to this most successful beach bum, Christmas Island is exactly what the cruise director ordered. --Rob O'Connor ... Read more

Reviews (11)

Fun Christmas CD
I've always liked Buffett, but I'm no parrothead. That said, this CD is great! It constantly brings a smile to my face and is great fun to sing along with. I played this at work on Christmas Eve and had people hula dancing to "Christmas Island" and "Mele Kalikimaka". It's also great to listen to in the car as you're stuck in holiday mall traffic.

"Silent Night" and "O Holy Night" have their places at Christmas time, but to really enjoy yourself (and maybe pretend you're in a place where the breeze doesn't freeze your snot) this CD really pulls through.

GOOD CHRISTMAS ALBUM!
Buffett never seems to disappoint! This album is full of good cheer and the spirit of Christmas -- Island style! The standout is his cover of John Lennon's "Happy Xmas (War is Over)," just as haunting and moving as ever! "Ho Ho Ho and a Bottle of Rum" will leave you laughing as Santa takes that long overdue vacation! The rest of the album is solid, cheerful, and different from most Christmas records, but a worthy addition to any Christmas collection! Grade: A-

JIMMY IS THE BEST!
Yes, fellow parrotheads, he's done it again. Another great album by the king Parrot himself... and just in time for the Holidays! The renditions are great and the original songs are even better! My favorite is "Ho Ho Ho and a Bottle of Rhum". This is definitely a must-have Christmas album! ... Read more

Asin: B000002P2Q
Subjects:  1. Christmas    2. Christmas / Chanukkah    3. Country-Rock    4. Holiday    5. Pop    6. Pop/Rock    7. Singer/Songwriter   

The Ultimate Christmas Collection
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (22 September, 1998)
list price: $11.98
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

"Little Saint Nick," the Beach Boys' 1963 classic, is undoubtedly one of pop music's coolest original Christmas songs. Hanson rocked it more recently, and decades later the original still sounds as hot as the California sun on this special combination of previously released and unvaulted alternate takes and never-released material, including a distinctly different arrangement of "Nick" and a fun, loopy ditty called "Santa's Got an Airplane." While many of the songs here are fodder for completists--and will sound uneven to others--it's hard to resist a record that features real rarities and Christmas material from 1964. Dig master Brian Wilson singing solo on "Blue Christmas" from the '64 Christmas Album and his keenly orchestrated "Winter Symphony" (for a 1977 Christmas disc that was never released, much of which is highlighted throughout this CD) with the warm, brassy instrumental bridge, plus a couple of fun public-service announcements and a Christmas-themed interview with the group's eccentric genius. --Martin Keller ... Read more

Reviews (18)

If you hap-happen to be reading this review right now...
This is indeed the "Ultimate" Beach Boys Christmas CD.The first 12 tracks are the entire original Beach Boys Christmas Album.I'm sure most of you are already familiar with this classic album, so I don't need to discuss it in detail.Next we have the awesome single version of "Little Saint Nick".Then there is an alternate mix of "Auld Lang Syne" without Denny's voiceover, which really shows off the boys beautiful a capella singing.Then there's the oddball version of "Little Saint Nick" sung to the backing track of "Drive-In".Next we get the great but rare 1974 single "Child of Winter".In 1977, the Beach Boys recorded a second Christmas album, intending it to be their last album for Warner/Reprise.But Warner rejected the album, and it was never released.Seven of the songs from that album appear here for the first time.They are actually pretty good, for the most part.Interestingly, most of the songs are rewritten versions of songs that they had already started working on, with lyrics rewritten to be about Christmas.The CD closes with two Toys For Tots public service announcements, and a promotional interview that Brian did for the original Christmas album.This is the only Beach Boys Christmas CD you'll ever need.

Just a great album Christmas album, period.
The Beach Boys are one of the all time greats in American rock music.Not only could they jam, but they could sing!In this album, you get a taste of their awesome vocals.These guys could harmonize for a rock band.Check out track #12 and #14, which are a capella, to confirm what I have written.Even people who are not fans of the Beach Boys can enjoy this sweet album with all its catchy Christmas tunes.Happy Holiday's!!

songjamca and my 409
they are very good i hope they6 can came to fl this year i like the bach boys they are a very good songers ok thanks bye. ... Read more

Asin: B000009RVB
Subjects:  1. Christmas    2. Christmas / Chanukkah    3. Holiday    4. Pop    5. Pop/Rock    6. Rock & Roll    7. Surf   

Xmas Island
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (14 April, 1998)
list price: $6.98
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Reviews (14)

The GREATEST Christmas cd of all time!!!
This is truly the ONLY Christmas cd I can listen to all the way thru, over & over again.Think of Bing Crosby singing classic Christmas songs only backed by a hot 1930's style jazz combo, and he sounds like he's had a bit too much eggnog, and you have Leon Redbone, actually he sounds a lot more like the forgotten Crooner Red McKenzie, and his back up groups sound like Chick Bullock's Levee Loungers.Anyhow this is a classic jazz/vaudeville style christmas album.If you've already worn out all your Crosby Christmas cd's, and you'd like something in a similar vein, only a little more peppy and yet even more laid back at the same time, give this a try.Redbone's appealing baritone is a throwback to the forgotten crooners of the 20's(Red McKenzie, Chick Bullock...), and his guitar playing is in the Eddie Lang tradition, his backup groups are generally jazz greats(Joe Venuti, usually makes an appearance on his cd's).On this cd are timeless standards as well as forgotten gems such as Christmas Island.Among the favorites are White Christmas, Frosty the Snowman, and Toyland(a song about a fantasy for a child, a land of toys).This is a TRUE Christmas/Vaudeville/trad jazz/Crosby-esque classic by the amazing Leon Redbone, once you get this you'll also want to explore hsi other cd's like Suger, and others.FUN & eseential music for an intimate romantic Christmas eve, or a swingin Christmas party.10 STARS!!!

Wonderful!
I am a natural christmas music lover but this is my favorite christmas album of all time. I look forward to listening to it each year. I happened across this album one day a few years back and was amazed to realize that this was the artist that my parents used to listen to on vinyl when I was 4 or 5. I had remembered his voice all these years but never knew who he was! I do now though and I am glad to see there is still a good selection of Redbone tunes out there. Get this album-you won't regret it!

Having some fun!
Just listen to Leon and Dr. John on "Frosty The Snowman" and you just know this is going to be fun. With his distinctive voice and with instruments like the dobro and accordian in the background, Leon has prepared a pleasant addition for any Christmas collection. "Try to listen to "There's No Place Like Home For The Holidays" without smiling, if you can, you probably don't like Leon Redbone or Christmas music to begin with. Docked a star for brevity (29:41 is short for an LP!) and the dippy "Toyland" (What is this about anyway?) this CD is a keeper. ... Read more

Asin: B000009TKS
Sales Rank: 214295
Subjects:  1. Christmas / Chanukkah    2. Pop   

Jingle Blues
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (24 August, 1999)
list price: $15.98
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

It's not often you get to hear Mabel Scott wail "Boogie Woogie Santa Claus" and Bessie Smith pour it all out on "At the Christmas Ball" alongside Lightnin' Hopkins's blistering "Santa" or Amos Milburn's classic "Let's Make Christmas Merry, Baby," but that's the mile-wide shape of this good-times, 15-track compilation. Swingin' Louis Jordan is likewise featured on "Santa Claus, Santa Claus," while Kings Albert and B. B., John Lee Hooker, Jimmy Weatherspoon, and Lowell Fulson sharpen their axes for a mess of Christmas blues. Also included are cuts by Anson Funderburgh & the Rockets, Floyd Dixon, and Eddie C. Campbell, whose "Santa's Messin' with the Kid" is as funny as it is rockin'. A fantastic showcase for blues guitar and vocals, this album should please any blues fan in your house. --Martin Keller ... Read more

Reviews (2)

com"YULE"ation Cleric : Spans Seventy Seasons
Compile,compile,compile...taskmaster Elwood must have those little elves up at the North House digging deep to ready these Blue Jingle Jewels to come on down that chimmey.Eleven different record labels serve as source, with seasonal selections starting far back in 1925 and turning thru till 1995.Throughout the jovial journey wandering amongst alumni credited with many a cornerstone Christmas crafting is encouraged. Hopefully you`ll too find some lost YULEtidings to X with certifiable seals of favorability.~~Merrily Mix~ 2% , 3# , 4#1\2 , 5$ , 7$ , 8# , 9#1\2 , 10# , 11$ , 12#1\2 , and 15# ~~ Post Script: The House lost a golden opportunity for further listener enrichment with lame liner notes. ( Elwood I really missed your muse ) Just a wish from me - how bout mixing up a live merry-millennial-mirth-maker batch from all those kitchen-clubs ya got,Pretty Please. ***buyit*saveit*shareit*giveit*donateit to the local library***

Rockin Blues Collection...House of Blues has yet to falter..
This CD is as fun as it is unique.If you love the blues, and are looking for the perfect Christmas album, this is the one.Worth the price of admission for Amos Milburn's "Let's Make Christmas Merry, Baby." This cd is guaranteed to chase away your blues, and brighten your spirits. ... Read more

Asin: B00000AE3L
Subjects:  1. Christmas    2. Christmas / Chanukkah    3. Electric Blues    4. Electric Texas Blues    5. Funk    6. Modern Electric Blues    7. New Orleans R&B    8. Piano Blues    9. Pop    10. R&B    11. Soul-Blues    12. Swing    13. Texas Blues    14. Urban Blues    15. West Coast Blues   

Christmas Caravan
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (06 October, 1998)
list price: $11.98
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Christmas Caravan finds the Zippers showing off not only their command of early jazz styles but also some deep blues roots ("Indian Giver") and an appreciation for cowboy music ("I'm Coming Home for Christmas"). Singer Katherine Whalen shines on a typically saucy rendition of "Winter Weather" and a number that would fit right in on Bummed Out Christmas: "A Johnny Ace Christmas," which memorializes the R&B singer killed in a December 24, 1954, backstage Russian roulette game. --Rickey Wright ... Read more

Reviews (24)

Classic Christmas
I stumbled across this record in a used CD store and what a find it was! This CD is a great collection of tunes which bring back Christmas memories for those of us who are the same age as the guys (and gal) who wrote the song. This has quickly moved to the top of the stack of our Christmas favorites.

A must-have for me
I bought this CD on a whim, and now I can't imagine Christmas without it. It is, hands-down, my favorite holiday CD. I eagerly anticipate Christmas every year because it means I can play this over and over and over again! My husband is a producer, so he's a bit of a music snob, but even he will listen to it.

Squirrel Ride
The Squirrel Nut Zippers offer up a unique Christmas album.They play acoustic instruments mostly in a hot jazz style, although some of the songs veer into traditional country territory. It's nice that 7 of the 10 songs here are Zippers originals, because who needs another version of "White Christmas", really?"A Johnny Ace Christmas" is the best of the originals, it's about the singer who died playing Russian Roulette on Christmas Eve in 1954.There are also three songs here that were not written by the Zippers."Winter Weather" is a nice version of a song that hasn't been recorded too many times."Sleigh Ride" is a swinging instrumental.Which brings us to "Hanging Up My Stockings".This song has a copyright of 1952, but this appears to be the first time it has actually been professionally recorded.I don't know this for certain, but it seems that somebody found an ancient demo of this song from the 50s, and the Zippers became the first group to record it.In fact, the original scratchy songwriter's demo is included as an unlisted bonus track at the end of the album.I would recommend this CD to anybody who is looking for something a little different in Christmas music. ... Read more

Asin: B00000AE4A
Subjects:  1. Alternative Pop/Rock    2. Christmas    3. Christmas / Chanukkah    4. Holiday    5. Pop    6. Retro Swing    7. Swing   

Xmas Album
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (07 October, 1997)
list price: $5.98 -- our price: $5.98
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Reviews (6)

Christmas Party Music
I hosted our company's Christmas party at my house. I picked up a few extra Christmas CD's and this was one of them. It literally brought a smile to my face when it started playing (and this was after an evening of fighting crowds and traffic.) I'm usually a Christmas jazz or Chistmas soul listener. This was my main music during the party and EVERYONE asked whose CD it was.When I said it was the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, I was AMAZED at how many people said they'd seen them in concert. It just gets a party going. Great CD.

Dirt Band Christmas
The nitty gritty dirt band performs many christmas classics such as "we three kings" and "silent night". They provide their own country rendition to these classics especially "Jingle Bells". There are also a few new songs such as "Christmas Dinner" and "one Christmas tree".

Each song is played in the dirt bands own unique style. They bring a freshness to such xmas standards as "We three kings" and "Jingle Bells". 3 1/2 stars.

One of the more traditional country Christmas albums
Given the band's pedigree, you might expect a rocking Christmas album, but this is more of an easy listening traditional country album. There are no steel guitars and only a couple of tracks feature a fiddle, so this should appeal to a wider audience than just country fans.

There is a good mix of familiar and new songs, but the standout track is One Christmas tree, about a couple who have separated or divorced. Their children have to split Christmas between them, but their wish is that everybody could get together again under one Christmas tree. It is a very sad song, but a reflection of the times in which we live.

Colorado Christmas (written by Steve Goodman) is a song they originally recorded in 1983 for a various artists compilation titled A Christmas tradition, but they re-recorded it for this album.

The other original songs (Christmas dinner, This Christmas morning and Love has brought him here) are brilliant. Of the old standards included here, I like We three kings and It came upon the midnight clear best, but that might be because the others have been covered much more frequently. Jingle bells is done as an instrumental.

Overall, this is an excellent Christmas album - one of the best of it's kind. ... Read more

Asin: B000002PJB
Sales Rank: 13249
Subjects:  1. Christmas / Chanukkah    2. Pop