2 comments about Christmas Carols & Motets.

1. This disc came as something of a surprise to me. The Tallis Scholars are justly famous for making Renaissance music, familiar and otherwise, known through concerts and recordings. As a devotee of their work, I did a double-take when I first saw the cover of this disc. Surely they weren't offering all those old but admittedly overdone chestnuts that we see in new recordings year in and year out?

   Actually, they weren't. Peter Phillips and ten of his singers have chosen a programme that reflects Christmas as the people of the Renaissance (and Early Baroque) might have seen it: simple chants, piquantly harmonised; Marian motets, and carols from the European mainland that have survived to this day, albeit greatly altered by other musical cultures. What emerges is thus wonderfully different than most other Christmas records: it is 'Christmassy' but not in the way we are used to.

   On the whole, although about 54 minutes long, the disc is therefore very enjoyable. The Tallis Scholars hallmark sound quality is there, taut and powerful yet sensitive and appropriate for the music. Phillips has prepared many of the pieces himself using various authentic sources, and as I have said it is a delectable feast of musical gems: amongst the early works, "Angelus ad virginem" and "There is no Rose" are the most immediately arresting, whilst of the four "Ave Maria" motets, Victoria's setting is particularly rapt and works well on the ear whether you listen at Christmastide or not. Finally, there are some delightful arrangements of well-known European carols, sung in German: "Es ist ein Ros entsprungen" will be known to many as "A great and mighty wonder." The last track, "Zion hort die Wachter singen," is presented with the harmonies of both Michael Praetorius and J. S. Bach, bringing the programme to a wonderful close.

   Although a lot of these works are repetitive (they are, after all, not much different than the hymns sung at Christmas in this day and age), Phillips does his best to maintain interest by deploying the singers in various ways; hence there are solo verses and passages for solo quartets in addition to the use of different soloists for each verse.

   In short, this is a genuinely worthwhile record to get hold of if Christmas lists are looming and ideas are none as to what will make an original and unusual present. Warmly recommended!




2. 'Christmas Carols and Motets' by The Tallis Scholars' is a superior album of unfamiliar Christmas music. It is deeper and more artistic than the more modern 'Christmas Day in the Morning' by The Cambridge Singers'.
   
   The pieces are in Latin, English, or German, with many of the Latin pices done in polyphony with up to seven voices. It may be due to it's Christmas subject, but I found most of these pieces a lot more enjoyable than the average Medieval hit parade recordings done by, for example Anonymous 4.
   
   The only thing I missed on this recording is that for a CD of non-copywrited material, it was rather short. Give Me MORE!
   
   Otherwise, first rate.

3 comments about Heavenly Peace.

1. A few seconds into my initial listening to its first track, "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen," I sensed that Heavenly Peace was not going to be a typical Christmas album, and as the rest of the album unfolded, that first impression became ever more deliciously validated. The multi-layered vocals on the song, in their interplay with the violin solo, alert listeners that they are in for some groundbreaking music, period, let alone a singular contribution to the seasonal literature.

   As the album continues to cast its spell, one quickly develops an appreciation for all the unique ways that Koldenhoven informs the holiday musical legacy, making new even the most familiar tunes and, simultaneously, the wonder of the Christmas story. Even more remarkable than her crystal-clear five-octave instrument (from below second alto to up, up, and away) is the fact that she manages to exploit its full range without showy, gimmick-laden histrionics.

   Several original compositions, including the wordless "Angels' Pastorale," add depth to the listening experience, and the sensitive lyrics (especially on "Joseph's Question") are worthy of the delicate settings that cradle them. Even the best-known tunes are so imaginatively delivered that one may be more tempted to wonder where one has heard the song before than to (attempt to) sing along. "Silent Night," packaged a bit like The Manhattan Transfer's version, comes the closest to sounding like something I can use as a basis of comparison, although if you're a Sarah Brightman fan, this collection will surely appeal to you, as it mines similarly etheric stylistic territory. It even closes with Koldenhoven's heartfelt (and superior) take on one of Brightman's signature tunes, "Pie Jesu" from Andrew Lloyd Webber's Requiem.

   Although hers isn't a household name, you may know the artist for her work with Yanni (she sang "Aria" on his Live at the Acropolis video and his In the Mirror CD), 2+2 (a jazz group with whom she earned three Grammy nominations and one award), or Inner Voices. The latter all-female quartet's 1990 Christmas Harmony is one of those very few holiday releases that have made my playlist every year since its release. I know that Heavenly Peace will join that special group of discs next year, and every year from then on.




2. The tonal quality of Darlene's voice is simply superb. Both rich and delicate. I would estimate at least a four octave range of superb, stylish aural splendor. Her talent goes well beyond just being a superb singer. She also arranged many of the "Heavenly Peace" songs, and produced this CD. Do I have a favorite song? Not really, they are all great for listening. But if I have to select a favorite, it would be "Emmanuel" ... a pure, ethereal song of magical beauty. I play this song over and over and over. The CD is my Christmas morning music while opening gifts. Highly recommended.



3. Although parts of this recording are sung in a vocal range that the Modern Listener isn't comfortable with, I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys extreme talent. Listening to this CD is an experience: I was soaring on Pie Jesu. Koldenhaven is the most exciting female singer since discovering Loreena McKennitt.

3 comments about Popular Songs of Christmas & New Year's.

1. But you can't blame the guy. He's got to eat just like the rest of us. Back in 1968 he noticed that Christmas records just sell and sell and sell, so he recorded one ("The New Possibility") and wouldn't you know, it became his best seller - not Blind Joe Death, not Railroad, not The Yellow Princess or any of those other masterpieces. So he put out more Christmas albums over the years (I think I count five) and this is the ickiest one of the lot - can you stand "The Skater's Waltz" or "Do You Hear what I Hear"? The music is mostly duets with Terry Robb, and most mellifluous they are too. And I guess guitarists will like the arrangements. But as a Fahey record, this is for completists.



2. Very under-rated CD. I'm not normally a big fan a Xmas CD's but this one has universal appeal. It's refreshing & unique without being hard to listen to. Here are tunes that I was fairly sick of (I thought), but in this CD they suddenly regained all the magic, warmth, soothing peace, & jaunty cheer, & grace of the Xmas spirit. And it's done with a wonderful easy charm.



3. This is actually a very interesting album, Christmas aspect aside. Fahey, as always, is the master of tunes in standard and waltz time. (I actually believe he could not play a note out of tempo if he wanted to.) His affinity for waltzes is well evidenced here with "The Waltz you saved For Me" standing out as one of his all-time best efforts ever in this genre. Another jewel is his read of "I'll be Home for Christmas", which he transforms from the usually smalzy, maudlin treatment into an almost disturbing lament. This shift of sentiment is pure Fahey. Even when he plays the over commercialized "Chirstmas Time Is Here" he manages to get a little past the unavoidable echoes of the chipmunks to reveal the tune in it's more Germanic influences.

   On the whole I think Fahey gets well beyond the Chistmas genere on this disc, and that may explain its unpopularity. (I picked it up for four dollars recently in a cutout bin) Very under rated. Four bucks well spent.

5 comments about Leontyne Price: Christmas Songs.

1. I have this LP and have been waiting for it to come out in CD because the Mozart "Alleluia" (from the Exsultate Jubilate)is the most beautiful version I've ever heard. Leontyne's voice is like a crytal bell.



2. This contains what must be some of the most beautiful voice music, anywhere, any style - period.

   The Ave Maria (first) and O Holy Night are absolutely transcendental!

   This review is short because nothing else can be said.




3. There's no need to tarry too long in this 'review'. Others have already eloquently lavished praise on this recording. I simply must add my own hosanna to theirs. Without a doubt, the singing of soprano Leontyne Price -"La Splendissima" - is incomparable here. There has never been a soprano with a timbre so incredibly distinctive & beautiful that also infuses her music with a rare humanity and humility. Every Christmas is inauguarated with this recording at my home, and those fortunate enough to receive this CD as a gift from me, are infinitely grateful & astounded by Ms. Price's gifts.(especially those not inclined to Opera singers!)
   Her collaboration here with Maestro Von Karajan is just as rewarding as all of the others including "Carmen", "Tosca", the Verdi "Requiem"(VHS/DVD), and a legendary "Il Trovatore". These (2) musical 'giants' seem to derive inspiration from each other that ignites a passionate response from each as well. Nowhere is this more evident than in their now 'classic' rendition of the Schubert "Ave Maria". Listen to the ethereal, voice-like intro of the orchestral strings that precedes Ms. Price's celestial vocalism. It's magical! The programme is diverse and deeply satisfying for the Season. Miss Price's singing, whether in this rep, singing Spirituals, the recital stage, or Grand Opera, is almost always an inveterately soulful experience. It is no less so here. Celebrate the Season (any Season you like) with "La Splendissima" Leontyne Price singing classical 'Soul' music at Christmas. Get this!!!!!!!!



4. This is one of the recordings that made me fall in love with opera. My father owned a drugstore and I started working at eth store when I was in junior high. He loved Christmas and would always play holiday music once Thanksgiving arrived. He used 8-track tapes that could repeat over and over again. Most of the recordings would be light and airy music that would encourage people to shop, but every now and then he would slip in this Leontyne Price recording, much to the chagrin of the employees. I would often switch to the track that contained Ms. Price singing "Von Himmel Hoch" pretending it was a joke, but secretly I could hardly believe that anyone could create such music. I also loved her singing of Mozart's "Alleluia."
   
   Now when I listen to Leontyne Price's Christmas album, I no longer pretend to make fun of it. I suppose I have become my father (musically at least) and simply enjoy it. As I listen to it today, I am less impressed with Ms. Price's tremendous vocal gifts, as wonderful as they are, but of her ability to bring out the richness of each work she performs. The simple title of the recording CHRISTMAS SONGS is appropriate because the recording is about the music itself, not the performer. From my point of view this makes the recording unique. I have a number of Christmas recordings in my collection from just about every opera singer imaginable, but I always find that this recording is one of the best vocally because Price obviously loves the music, brings the music to life in her signature style, but allows the recording to be about the music and not the performer. Come to think of it, she did this onstage as well, which may be why she is considered by so many to be a musician rather than a performer and why she was so beloved when she sang and her recordings are still treasured by so many to this day.



5. There are three or four CD's that are required listening in every December. Leontyne Price's makes the list-- with stars. This CD is a reissue from a LP recorded in 1961 and includes many, many great selections: Mendelssohn ("Hark!The Herald Angels Sing"), Schubert ("Ave Maria"), Bach ("Ave Maria" and "Vom Himmel hoch, da komm ich her") and Mozart ("Alleluja"). In addition, "Silent Night," "We Three Kings," "God rest ye merry, Gentlemen" and four other traditional Christmas songs are included. Ms. Price's a capella version of "Sweet li'l Jesus defies description. I'm not sure how to describe what she does on "Angels we have heard on High" except to say that her voice soars and floats as she plays with the melody line. She's obviously having a good time on this one. The two Bach numbers are wonderful, her version of "O Holy Night" is as good as any you'll ever hear, and the closing "Alleluja" is simply magnificent.
   
   I purchased the LP of this "Leontyne Price Christmas Songs" the December that John Lennon was killed. It was a great comfort at such a dark time. It's a great gift for someone you love. I'm always surprised when music lovers have not heard of it. I cannot say enough good things about this CD that deserves more than five stars.

5 comments about Holiday: A Collection of Christmas Classics.

1. An amazing album! Crystal sings all the good Christmas songs on this one. But she takes a little different aproach this time. She sounds a lot like Ella Fitzgerald, giving this fantastic album a great jazz sound. And her three piece backup band does an excellent job. I would buy this album for everyone I knew, if I could afford it.



2. Crystal Lewis is one of those singers who can do no wrong when it comes to trying different styles and being completly artistic in her approach to music. This has been proved right on her last four albums and she still is releasing amazing material. Her new Christmas release "Holiday!" is truly a gift. Crystal posseses a unique and incredibly beautiful voice that I am always amazed by. It took Lewis only three days to record this entire album, and that shows me true musicianship and artistic brilliance. The Lord has really blessed her and the musicians whom she works with. This album is a peice of musical heaven here on earth.



3. Most of us want to relax and feel "Christmasy" when we put on a CD at this time of year. My collection is repleat with over-produced seasonal projects that my wife always turns down. This album is a credit to her brilliant talent and ability offer a project that is at once casual and profound. Enjoy it with the fire on!



4. Most of us want to relax and feel "Christmasy" when we put on a CD at this time of year. My collection is repleat with over-produced seasonal projects that my wife always turns down. This album is a credit to her brilliant talent and ability offer a project that is at once casual and profound. Enjoy it with the fire on!



5. I listened to this CD at her concert and it is so good. If you wan to get in the Christmas mood, this is the CD for you. It is jazzy and fun. I love it. I would recomend it to anyone!

No comments about Navidad a La Mexicana.

1 comments about Christmas with James Galway.

1. The performers include: The Regensburg Cathedral Boys' Choir, the Munich Radio Symphony Orchestra (conducted by John Georgiadis), and the immortal James Galway -- world-famous as "The Man with the Golden Flute". The boys just sing like Angels! Put them all together with a Master Flutist, a full symphony orchestra, and a lot of practice and experience -- and you're BOUND to get a work of art like THIS one!

   Rating it: You mean to tell me that I can only give this work a measly five stars? But that doesn't even BEGIN to describe it! If you want to get into the Christmas spirit -- this album would be a PERFECT place to start.

No comments about Christmas Music for Tranquility.

No comments about The Ultimate Christmas Album, Vol. 2.

3 comments about White Christmas.

1. This was my favorite Christmas LP from childhood and now I will get it on CD. The young Pat Boone has a wonderful voice and "Hark the Herald Angels Sing" always made me feel choked up. Boone sings these Christmas classics in such a way that you want to sing out loud with him.



2. I have a recording of this album produced for the South Korean market, and the quality is very good.
   
   According to allmusic.com, this album was orginally released in 1959. This is a good recording of traditional Christmas and holiday music, interpreted by Pat Boone in a very straightforward manner. Thus, the record is a very good listen. What struck me as interesting is that, in several numbers, Pat Boone sounds somewhat similar to Bing Crosby; their vocal ranges were similar and, for songs without either's trademark vocal embellishments, the interepretations and sounds were similar.



3. This is a wonderful CD reproduction of an album I enjoyed all thru my childhood. One BIG disappointment is that the song, "It Came Upon a Midnight Clear" is NOT on the CD, even though it has a track listing. Whoever dubbed this was asleep! But otherwise it is a great reproduction.