Customer Reviews

Christmas

5 star:		(4)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I wanted something low-keyed and beautiful for my family's Christmas gathering. I knew the usual clutch of Christmas "schmaltz" would show up -- you know, everything from "It's An N'Sync Christmas" to "Bing Crosby's White Christmas" -- and I knew I'd need some relief. Well, this Aaberg CD was it! Absolutely gentle yet provocative music. If you love the piano this will suit your sensibilities any time of the year, whenever you want to set a contemplative or relaxed mood. The Christmas theme comes through subtly in a few places, but on the whole this CD is not one to be played only in December.

I was surprised to learn that pianist Philip Aaberg was doing a Christmas album. He was one of the regulars on Windham Hill's "Winter Solstice" tours and albums, but his artistic integrity never allows him to do anything overtly commercial, as Christmas albums so often are. I never should have given this a thought, as "Christmas" is "Aaberg the Artist" through and through. A consummate pianist, Aaberg's signature style with lots of open spaces shines in this collection of five original pieces and six arrangements of traditional carols. On his website, Aaberg says, "This isn't a party album. Play this after your guests have gone home, all the presents have been opened, and you want to get `straight to the actual' as poet Richard Hugo says." Deeply introspective, but full of emotional warmth, this collection will appeal to the more musically experienced who aren't looking for a sing-along album of holiday tunes. Aaberg's own "Montana Sleighride" is the liveliest of the pieces, depicting the fun and excitement of a ride in the snow at night as well as the cool brilliance of snow reflecting the light of the moon and stars. "God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen" is given a decidedly untraditional treatment that is full of Aaberg's personal touches, making it his own. "What Child Is This?" is given a loving, gentle lullaby-feel, as is "Away In a Manger". Aaberg's "The Gift" has been a favorite of mine since it appeared in his book of piano solos several years ago, so it's great to have the recording now, too!

Philip Aaberg has been one of my favorite artists for many years, and this CD continues his tradition of excellence and artistry at the piano. Highly recommended!

Firstly, a caveat. I hate Christmas music. I love Christmas, I am a Christian, but I hate Christmas music. I made a promise to myself to never ever purchase a holiday album; I love to sing carols and play them in church, but other than that, the commercial people can keep their schmaltz. However, I know what Phillip Aaberg is capable of, and when I saw this album, I decided to give him the benefit of the doubt.

I am so glad that I did. He re-interprets the old carols, and writes some wonderful new ones, they are so vibrant and full of life that you will see Christmas in a new light. This album can be played at any time of the year, and I know of no other holiday album that can do that. If you love good music and hate Xmas music, this CD is for you. Trust me.

exceptional playing and recording, I had only one Phil Aaberg CD until this order. I really like it.

Philip Aaberg puts his stamp of unique styling to the various tunes on the recording - some better known than others, but his style is very recognizable.

This recording is a treat for fans who appreciate more contemplative music. The style consists of a blend of classical/impressionism/new-age/jazz/minimalism. If any style predominates on this recording it is the classical one.

What is very noticeable, also, are the spaces in the phrasing - the sound of notes played are allowed to diminish to the point of entering into a period of silence. Some of the music is very very slow-paced. Not a bad thing, but as a listener, you must slow down your desire to have the music rush by you from one note to the next. Only in "Mountain Sleighride," and "I Saw Three Ships," does that occur. Both of these pieces are given very inventive stylings.

Many of the other pieces allow your mind to slow down, relax, and immerse itself into the moment, as PA's music creates interesting vistas for you to rest in. PA uses the piano to create different textures and colors.

It's hard to describe this recording, other than it is like one you cannot imagine unless you have heard the music of PA.

I recommend this recording for PA fans and for people who have more sophisticated taste in musical treatment of traditional songs. This recording can be enjoyed at times other than at Christmas. (I was motivated to re-listen to my copy of this recording after listening to a syndicated radio program featuring "ambient/new age" music for the holidays. I found myself enjoying this as much as the first time and was reminded why I bought it in the first place.)