Just in Time for Christmas

Nancy LaMott | Format: Audio CD

Product Details

• Audio CD (October 31, 1994)
• Original Release Date: October 31, 1994
• Number of Discs: 1
• Label: Midder Music
• ASIN: B000005AAX
• Also Available in: Audio Cassette  |  MP3 Download
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (26 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #37,111 in Music (See Top 100 in Music)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

13 of 13 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Sparkling Christmas album by cabaret singer extraordinaire., December 18, 2004

By 

Mary Whipple (New England) - See all my reviews
(TOP 50 REVIEWER)    (COMMUNITY FORUM 04)    (HALL OF FAME REVIEWER)   

This review is from: Just in Time for Christmas (Audio CD)

In this 1994 recording Nancy Lamott puts her unique stamp on familiar Christmas fare, along with some newer songs. Her cabaret approach is showcased by her arranger and accompanist on piano, Chris Marlowe, who keeps the accompaniment simple, allowing Nancy's voice to capture the moods and vitality of the season without the distraction of big orchestrations. Ranging from softly sweet to full-out, Nancy Lamott is "on" here, communicating the spirit and messages of these songs in her own style.

In "Some Children See Him," the simple piano accompaniment, in the same range as Nancy's voice, blends with it and feels like a duet, with her voice sounding as clear as the piano itself. The lovely "(Christmas) Stay With Me" once again keeps the background piano simple, while a muted trumpet answers Nancy's bluesy lyrics and starts a dialogue, ending in a stirring trumpet solo by Glenn Drewes.

Not all songs are simple, however. "Baby, It's Cold Outside" features a walking bass and a lively duet with Michael Feinstein, as Nancy and Michael, delightfully at cross-purposes in this song, argue whether he will stay with her or go home. "Just in Time for Christmas," one of the most memorable songs on the album, is a love song, with Nancy announcing "You brought me the greatest gift of all," a message which grows in volume and orchestration until she is singing full-out at the conclusion. In "All Those Christmas Cliches" the singer, sadly jaded by holiday decoration and tradition, now wants it all--the tree, the wreath on the front door, the plywood reindeer, sentimental cards, kids, and laughter--a poignant reminder that for Nancy these dreams did not come true.

As always, her powerful voice remains totally under control, ranging from the softest whisper to some full-out belting. Her diction and phrasing give the album a sense of immediacy--as if she is singing to each listener personally--and though many songs are sweetly sung, Nancy is simultaneously tough and strong--never demure or coy. According to the press, difficulties between the Lamott family and Midder Music, her recording company, have now been resolved, and up to ten new albums of never released material should start being available by the summer of 2005. Mary Whipple

9 of 9 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Brings you Christmas cheer 12 months a year, February 20, 1999

By A Customer

This review is from: Just in Time for Christmas (Audio CD)

I was once chastised for listening to this CD in AUGUST....but I couldn't help myself! Nancy's voice is as wonderful as always, and Christopher Marlowe's arrangements outstanding (no surprise there, either!) "I'll Be Home for Christmas" is stunning in its simplicty - no one has sung, or will sing, it better. Two other favorites are the title track and "All Those Christmas Cliches." Although we just celebrated Christmas 1998, I must urge anyone interested to BUY this now, as sales of all Nancy's CDs are being halted due to legal battles with the estate. Don't miss this one!

9 of 9 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Still the Best, December 13, 2003

By 

Rusty Kransky "Rusty Kransky" (Greenport, NY United States) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Just in Time for Christmas (Audio CD)

This is still my favorite Christmas recording ever made. Nancy LaMott's voice, the terrific Chris Marlowe arrangements, and the song choice are all wonderful. "I'll Be Home For Christmas" has never been sung more effectively, "Just in Time For Christmas" and "All those Christmas Cliches" are touching and lovely. Unusual choices like "A Child is Born" and "Earth and Sky" reflect Nancy's originality and humanity perfectly. If you like Christmas music, this CD is essential for your collection. You'll find yourself listening to it repeatedly!