Lovely contemplative solo piano takes on two dozen , mostly, holiday standards. Ffrench is described as a "Classical Soul superstar' but this album leans more on the classical/jazz/easy listening side of things, a la George Winston. An excellent album.
Voctive - It Feels Like Christmas
I was all in on the acapella boom of a number of years ago that birthed the monster that is Pentatonix but after awhile I fell off the bandwagon, and out side of classic acts like The King’s Singers and Chanticleer, I don’t have a lot of it in my seasonal listening rotation.
Voctive’s new album of Christmas tunes might change that slightly. Its good old fashioned vocal harmonies, nothing genre shattering and sometimes that can be a good thing.
Chris Issak - Everybody Knows It’s Christmas (Deluxe)
One of my faves from last year adds four “new” tracks.
Maddie and Tae - We Need Christmas
This one isn’t Deluxe, but Extended (does that mean we might still get a deluxe! Oh Joy!)I thought it was okay back in 2020 and the new additions are as decent and workmanlike as the rest.
Forest Blakk - Wake Up (It’s Christmas Time)
Solid 4 track mini-album (maxi-single?)
Jon Pardi - Merry Christmas From Jon Pardi
My favorite country Christmas album of the season so far, if only because it actually wants to be a country album. Plus he does a cover of All I Want for Christmas is You that doesn’t make e feel like raming candy canes in my ears.
Lola Kirke - Hard Candy Christmas
Hard Candy Christmas is becoming a tough one to cover, there are already a few really good ones and of course the original is a classic. Kirke does a nice job here but doesn’t really make the song her own. If you don’t already have a handful of go-to covers of HCC you could do worse.
Excellent jazz Christmas album from pianist Sands. Absolutely going into this year's rotation.
David Foster & Katherine McPhee - Christmas Songs
Expanded from last years mini-album. Excellent tracks crafted by an expert producer and a remarkable singer.
Julie Benko & Mykal Kilgore - (I Never Had a ) Christmas with You
Nice soul tinged duet. I liked this one quite a bit.
Tyler Shaw - Christmas All Over Again
Perfectly good cover of Tom Petty’s holiday hit.
Lisa Biales - At Christmas
Solid Blues rock number.
Dami Im - Santa Claus is Coming to Town
Decent jazzy take. Part of the genre I think of as Hallmark Movie opening credit songs.
Jess Moskaluke - Counting Down Christmas
Okay pop/country track.
Justine Blazer - Joy
Uneven album veering between teenybopper girl pop, and various shades of country. The closer the songs lean towards country the better. There’s only one song here that I thought was half decent, and judging by the name I would have assumed I’d hate it, and that’s “Kitty Kat Christmas”
Christmas Isn’t Christmas - Michael Bolton + Mickey Guyton
I’m a fan, to some extent of both Bolton and Guyton but this generic bit of fluff, while inoffensive, won’t be finding its way into my rotation this year.
Manger Throne - Phil Wickham
Fairly standard Worship anthem. If you’re into it , you’re into it.
Rock the Christmas Cheer! - The Bongos
Generic tunes from artists who’ve done better work in the past seems to be the theme today. This time it’s generic indie/powerpop from critical darlings of a certain age, The Bongos.
I wanted this to be so much better.
Snow Day - Caitlyn Smith
Nice gently swinging, holiday romantic number, b/w a solid, mostly, sparsely acoustic, take on O Holy Night.
Worth revisiting.
Home For Christmas - Colton Dixon
So, Colton decided to release a song with a title that will remind people of another song and then covers that more famous version of the similarly titled song. Interesting choice.
The cover’s better than the original and the originals OK, for a modern pop tune.
There’s also a contemplative cover of Let it Snow.
Minstrels - A Winter Union
Right up my alley, this slice of festive folk sits comfortably alongside holiday tracks from the likes of Blackmore’s Night, Loreena McKennitt, Kate Rusby and Jethro Tull.
River - Chloe Flower
When I heard the first overly familiar piano tinkles my heart sank. Oh, no, I thought, yet another cover of River like almost every other cover of River. Fortunately it opened up into a more expansive Classical Crossover thing. I’m not adding it to any playlists but it’s fine.
It's that time of year again so here's the first of this years round-ups of new Christmassy releases...
Christmas - Cher
This one was never going to rate high with me, I haven’t really been a fan of Cher’s output since the early 80’s. Guests include the Cyndi Lauper, Stevie Wonder and Michael Bublé.
A Cher Christmas album from 30 to 50 years ago would have been awesome, but this does nothing for me. That said, if you’re a fan you’ll probably love it.
The Greatest Christmas Hits - Pentatonix
If Pentatonix had the restraint to keep their Christmas releases down to one every six or seven years or so, I’d probably feel a lot less disdain for them.
This release combines 23 of their “Holiday Classics” with 8 more new tunes. Which is which? Don’t know, don’t care. I can take the odd Pentatonix track on the radio or playing in a store while I Christmas shop but I can’t imagine putting myself through 31 straight songs.
As always I’ll add the disclaimer that this is just my personal opinion and if you like this stuff then that’s awesome and I’m honestly happy for you, I'm just not a fan.
Dear Santa - One Republic
Decent pop tune, nothing groundbreaking. Honestly, if I hadn’t known this was from a massively popular and well established group I might have thought it was a better than average Hallmark Movie title track by some relatively unknown performer. There’s also a piano version of the song that’s pretty good.
Not bad and definitely the best thing I’ve heard today.
Like a Child - Blessing Offor
Well that didn’t last long. Sorry One Republic, this three track single from Blessing Offor , especially "Like a Child", has risen to the top of today’s chart. The only blemish is the egregious use of autotune in Little Drummer Boy, it’s time producers let that affectation go. Offor even manages to make a decent job of covering "Wonderful Christmastime”
Everything You Want - Matt Rogers + Muna
Not a Christmas song, just a mediocre pop song that references Christmas.
A Classic Christmas - Gavin DeGraw
Decent collection of a half dozen holiday standards. You won’t want to throw out your old LPs but as neo-crooners go this is pretty good.
Let it Snow - Various Bocellis
Single from forthcoming Deluxe version of last years' family affair. Meh.
We Wish You the Merriest - Seth MacFarlane + Liz Gilles
Brian from Family Guy releases a solid holiday track. Nice arrangement , nice vocals, can’t complain (and I do love to complain!).
Christmas Time is Here - Johnny Mathis
I’ve saved the best for last. An expanded version of the E.P. the legend released last year. Sure he’s not the singer was , umm, 50+ years ago but ⅔ Johnny Mathis is twice as good as the vast majority of releases you’ll listen to this year. Kristin Chenoweth guests on "Santa Claus is Coming to Town".
Christmas with the Tabernacle Choir featuring Kristin Chenoweth (2019)
One in a long running series of annual Christmas specials. Each year a different celebrity is brought in to host and perform with the Tabernacle Choir and Orchestra, and for the 2018 Christmas concert series, the special guest was the effervescent Kristin Chenoweth. The highlights of these shows were then released as this special in 2019.
As expected, this is a fairly polished, tastefully middle brow production complete with the usual dashes of seasonal storytelling and large-scale dance numbers. Your overall enjoyment of this particular special will probably depend on how big a fan you are of Kristin Chenoweth's whimsical nature and idiosyncratic charm, as her quirky personality is on full display here. The live audience surely loves her, which adds a nice energy to the proceedings and leads to some captivating performances.
Setlist for the special:
Hark the Herald Angels Sing
Gift of Christmas, Everywhere
We Need a Little Christmas (Performed by Kristin Chenoweth)
O Holy Night (Performed by Kristin Chenoweth)
For unto Us a Child Is Born, from Messiah
Mary Did You Know? (Performed by Kristin Chenoweth)
C'mon, Ring Those Bells (Performed by Kristin Chenoweth)
Somewhere in My Memory, from Home Alone
Angels Among Us (Performed by Kristin Chenoweth)
Fill the World with Love from Goodbye Mr. Chips
What Child is This? (Performed by Kristin Chenoweth)
Angels from the Realms of Glory (Performed by Kristin Chenoweth)
An episode of Music and the Spoken Wordfeaturing a few of the performances from the special can be found on YouTube
Overall, it's a Christmas delight enlivened by the adorkably charming Kristin Chenoweth.
Christmas At Concordia | Gather Us In, O Child of Peace (2016)
The description on the PBS webpage for this special reads as thus...
"Concordia College of Minnesota re-imagines the Christmas message with new music embracing peace and reconciliation under the artistic leadership of composer and conductor René Clausen. "
...which did give me pause as I'm not usually a fan of the results of anytime Christmas gets "re-imagined". Fortunately we aren't subjected to a drill rap version of the Messiah or a death metal Jingle Bells instead it's just a lovely straight forward choral concert. Not the most dynamic special you'll ever see, but this is the sort of show you'll be listening to rather than sitting glued to your seat in rapt attention
This 2016 special one of many produced at the school, is available online Here
(Here's the first in a new series spotlighting my favorite Christmas flicks. The funny thing is, I love The Shop Around the Corner so much i actually skipped watching it last year. I've found annual viewings of some holiday favorites makes them a bit too familiar. An overindulgence in A Christmas Story has actually ruined the movie for me in recent years, so I try to show a bit more restraint and skip a year or two on some of my faves.)
The holiday season is filled with cherished traditions, including gathering with loved ones, exchanging gifts, and watching heartwarming movies. One such film that encapsulates the spirit of Christmas and has stood the test of time is the 1940 classic, "The Shop Around the Corner." Directed by Ernst Lubitsch and starring James Stewart and Margaret Sullavan, this enchanting romantic comedy has captivated audiences for decades. "
"The Shop Around the Corner" is set in Budapest and revolves around a charming little gift shop. Alfred Kralik (played by James Stewart) and Klara Novak (played by Margaret Sullavan) are employees at the shop who initially clash with each other. Unbeknownst to both, they are anonymous pen pals who have developed a deep bond through their heartfelt correspondence. As the story unfolds, the film beautifully captures the essence of love, friendship, and the magic of the holiday season.
In this delightful film, Alfred and Klara's relationship evolves from animosity to love. As the Christmas season approaches, tensions rise in the shop, and Alfred and Klara's true identities as pen pals are revealed. This revelation tests their budding romance, leading to a climax filled with heartfelt emotions. The film masterfully intertwines humor, drama, and romance, ensuring a captivating viewing experience.
Christmas serves as the backdrop for the story in "The Shop Around the Corner." The holiday season symbolizes hope, unity, and the power of human connection. The film beautifully captures the anticipation and joy that Christmas brings, as characters search for happiness and find solace in unexpected places. The festive atmosphere, adorned with decorations and holiday cheer, adds an extra layer of warmth and enchantment to the narrative.
The characters in "The Shop Around the Corner" are richly developed and endearing. Alfred Kralik, portrayed by James Stewart, is a kind-hearted and thoughtful man with a hidden depth. Margaret Sullavan's Klara Novak is spirited, independent, and searching for love. The supporting cast brings additional charm, including Frank Morgan as the shop owner and Joseph Schildkraut as the arrogant sales clerk. Each character adds their unique flavor to the film, making them relatable and engaging.
At its core, "The Shop Around the Corner" is a love story that emphasizes the power of genuine human connection. The film explores the transformative nature of love and how it can overcome barriers, even in the face of misunderstandings. The blossoming romance between Alfred and Klara is heartwarming, reminding us that love can be found in unexpected places. Their story is a testament to the magic of love and the hope it brings during the holiday season.
Since its release over eight decades ago, "The Shop Around the Corner" has left an indelible mark on cinema. Its timeless themes and memorable characters continue to resonate with audiences of all ages. The film's enduring legacy is a testament to the exceptional storytelling and the universal messages it conveys. "The Shop Around the Corner" remains a beloved Christmas film that brings joy and warmth to viewers around the world.
"The Shop Around the Corner" has had a significant influence on the Christmas film genre. Its portrayal of the holiday spirit, coupled with a captivating narrative, set a precedent for future films to follow. The film's success inspired other filmmakers to explore similar themes of love, hope, and redemption during the holiday season. Its influence can be seen in subsequent classics such as "It's a Wonderful Life" and "Miracle on 34th Street," solidifying its place in the canon of Christmas cinema.
One of the central themes of "The Shop Around the Corner" is hope. The film reminds us that even in the face of adversity, there is always the possibility for redemption and a brighter future. Through its characters' journeys, the film explores the transformative power of second chances, forgiveness, and the belief in the inherent goodness of people. These themes resonate deeply with audiences and make the film a timeless holiday favorite.
The gift shop in "The Shop Around the Corner" serves as a symbol of community, dreams, and aspirations. It represents a microcosm of society, where individuals from different backgrounds come together, striving to find happiness and purpose. The shop acts as a catalyst for personal growth, fostering relationships and providing a sense of belonging. Its significance within the film reinforces the importance of human connections and the shared experiences that make the holiday season so special.
Despite being released in 1940, "The Shop Around the Corner" remains relevant and resonates with audiences of all generations. Its universal themes and relatable characters transcend time, making it a timeless classic. The film's ability to evoke emotions and transport viewers to a bygone era is a testament to its enduring appeal. Whether watched during the holiday season or any time of the year, "The Shop Around the Corner" continues to captivate and enchant.
"The Shop Around the Corner" has left an indelible mark on popular culture. It has inspired adaptations, including the beloved musical "She Loves Me" and the romantic comedy "You've Got Mail." References to the film can be found in books, TV shows, and other movies, highlighting its enduring influence. Its timeless themes and memorable characters continue to inspire and entertain audiences across different mediums.
FAQs
Q1: Is "The Shop Around the Corner" a family-friendly film?
Yes, "The Shop Around the Corner" is a family-friendly film suitable for all ages. Its heartwarming story and gentle humor make it a perfect choice for holiday gatherings.
Q2: Are there any remakes or adaptations of "The Shop Around the Corner"?
Yes, "The Shop Around the Corner" has inspired adaptations such as the musical "She Loves Me" and the romantic comedy "You've Got Mail."
Q3: Where can I watch "The Shop Around the Corner"?
"The Shop Around the Corner" is available on various streaming platforms, and it is often aired on television during the holiday season. Check your local listings or popular streaming services for availability.
Q4: Who directed "The Shop Around the Corner"?
Ernst Lubitsch directed "The Shop Around the Corner." His skillful direction brought the story to life and contributed to the film's enduring charm.
Q5: Is "The Shop Around the Corner" considered a Christmas classic?
Yes, "The Shop Around the Corner" is widely regarded as a Christmas classic due to its heartfelt story, festive atmosphere, and enduring popularity among audiences.
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