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Track Listings
| 1. Santa Claus Is Coming to Town (Intro) |
| 2. Oh Santa! |
| 3. O Little Town of Bethlehem / Little Drummer Boy Medley |
| 4. Christmas Time Is in the Air Again |
| 5. The First Noel / Born is the King (Interlude) |
| 6. When Christmas Comes |
| 7. Here Comes Santa Claus (Right Down Santa Claus Lane) / Housetop Celebration |
| 8. Charlie Brown Christmas |
| 9. O Come All Ye Faithful/ Hallelujah Chorus Ft. Patricia Carey |
| 10. O Holy Night Đ Live From WPC in South Central |
| 11. One Child |
| 12. All I Want for Christmas Is You -- Extra Festive |
| 13. Auld Lang Syne - The New Year's Anthem |
Editorial Reviews
2010 holiday release from the interna-tional superstar , her second career album of holiday tunes. Highlighting the album is a brand new recording of Mariah's all-time standard, "All I Want For Christmas Is You." In addition to traditional yuletide fare - "The First Noel," "Little Drummer Boy," "O Little Town of Bethlehem," "O Come All Ye Faithful" and more - the album also contains four original songs composed by Mariah, including the new single, "Oh Santa," and many more surprises for the fans. Producers on the new album include American Idol's Randy Jackson, multi-platinum hit-making producer Jermaine Dupri, James Poyser (acclaimed producer for Aretha Franklin, The Roots, Lauryn Hill and more), and five-time Oscar nominee and Grammy/Tony/Emmy award winning composer Marc Shaiman.
Customer Reviews
Most Helpful Customer Reviews
55 of 60 people found the following review helpful
By Rudy Palma
Format:Audio CD
Mariah Carey's "Merry Christmas II You" is as soothing - and ideally suited - for the season as a warm, restorative cup of cocoa. It is cool, classy and uncalculated, confidently delivering holiday cheer.
Carey's 1994 "Merry Christmas" collection - which yielded "All I Want For Christmas Is You," perhaps the biggest hit of her career - was sprinkled generously with formal elegance and vocal bombast, although in welcome doses. "Merry Christmas II You" is not Carey's attempt to recapture that same formula but rather to offer a more festive, relaxed counterpart that complements the first album well. She no longer has anything to prove, so she can afford subtlety.
Lead single "Oh Santa!" is a cute pop record that - quite transparently - revisits the theme of "All I Want for Christmas Is You." With its rhythmic handclapping and vibrant background vocal work it strikes a resemblance to Outkast's "Hey Ya!" It is endearing, extroverted and giddy-sweet, though it jars a bit with the languid, milky sweet soul that characterizes most of the album.
On the likes of "The First Noel/Born Is the King (Interlude)" and "O Little Town of Bethlehem" Carey is blissfully understated. She sings the songs with grace, sweetness and maternal warmth rather than the youthful exuberance that colored 1994's "Merry Christmas," unleashing those signature high notes only at climactic moments. Those who listen for vocal acrobatics will not find a surplus of them - rather, just the right amount. She also makes interesting song choices - such as "Christmas Time Is Here (Charlie Brown Christmas)" - which suit this style.
"Christmas Time Is in the Air Again" is so slinky, precious and delicate that it only begins to call attention to itself after a few spins, but it is an exceptional track - another fine original that, like "All I Want for Christmas Is You," shows Carey's gift for timelessness as a writer. It is romantic, elegant and soul-stirring enough to arouse emotions without breaking the yuletide mood. "One Child" is another cornerstone original - a serious moment worthy of working its way into church hymn books. It is dignified, restrained, sincere and devout, with a lovely children's choir.
Carey's mother Patricia provides operatic vocals on "O Come All Ye Faithful/Hallelujah," which will surprise those listeners previously unaware that her mother's career as an opera singer gave rise to Carey's talent. The elder Carey sounds wonderful, and the blending of both their voices not only invokes sweet sound but the warmth of family.
The live rendition of "O Holy Night" is only partially live; some portions (generally, the most vocally challenging) of it are lifted right from the 1994 recording, while other moments are clearly live. It is fine listening, but it is also baffling. The updated version of "All I Want for Christmas Is You" is almost indistinguishable from the original - good news for those torn between which of Carey's Christmas albums to purchase.
"Merry Christmas II You" is a fine testament to Carey's enduring talent and generation-defining voice. The prospect of a recession-informed Christmas - one where fewer presents will be beneath the tree - is a very real one this season, but the presence of this album on the stereo will go a long way to putting smiles on faces, rejuvenating spirits and underscoring the real meaning of Christmas.
Carey's 1994 "Merry Christmas" collection - which yielded "All I Want For Christmas Is You," perhaps the biggest hit of her career - was sprinkled generously with formal elegance and vocal bombast, although in welcome doses. "Merry Christmas II You" is not Carey's attempt to recapture that same formula but rather to offer a more festive, relaxed counterpart that complements the first album well. She no longer has anything to prove, so she can afford subtlety.
Lead single "Oh Santa!" is a cute pop record that - quite transparently - revisits the theme of "All I Want for Christmas Is You." With its rhythmic handclapping and vibrant background vocal work it strikes a resemblance to Outkast's "Hey Ya!" It is endearing, extroverted and giddy-sweet, though it jars a bit with the languid, milky sweet soul that characterizes most of the album.
On the likes of "The First Noel/Born Is the King (Interlude)" and "O Little Town of Bethlehem" Carey is blissfully understated. She sings the songs with grace, sweetness and maternal warmth rather than the youthful exuberance that colored 1994's "Merry Christmas," unleashing those signature high notes only at climactic moments. Those who listen for vocal acrobatics will not find a surplus of them - rather, just the right amount. She also makes interesting song choices - such as "Christmas Time Is Here (Charlie Brown Christmas)" - which suit this style.
"Christmas Time Is in the Air Again" is so slinky, precious and delicate that it only begins to call attention to itself after a few spins, but it is an exceptional track - another fine original that, like "All I Want for Christmas Is You," shows Carey's gift for timelessness as a writer. It is romantic, elegant and soul-stirring enough to arouse emotions without breaking the yuletide mood. "One Child" is another cornerstone original - a serious moment worthy of working its way into church hymn books. It is dignified, restrained, sincere and devout, with a lovely children's choir.
Carey's mother Patricia provides operatic vocals on "O Come All Ye Faithful/Hallelujah," which will surprise those listeners previously unaware that her mother's career as an opera singer gave rise to Carey's talent. The elder Carey sounds wonderful, and the blending of both their voices not only invokes sweet sound but the warmth of family.
The live rendition of "O Holy Night" is only partially live; some portions (generally, the most vocally challenging) of it are lifted right from the 1994 recording, while other moments are clearly live. It is fine listening, but it is also baffling. The updated version of "All I Want for Christmas Is You" is almost indistinguishable from the original - good news for those torn between which of Carey's Christmas albums to purchase.
"Merry Christmas II You" is a fine testament to Carey's enduring talent and generation-defining voice. The prospect of a recession-informed Christmas - one where fewer presents will be beneath the tree - is a very real one this season, but the presence of this album on the stereo will go a long way to putting smiles on faces, rejuvenating spirits and underscoring the real meaning of Christmas.
37 of 45 people found the following review helpful
By Fady Mansour
Format:Audio CD|Amazon Verified Purchase
There's something for everyone on this album -everyone who loves Christmas and Carey's voice- and yet neither the quality or cohesiveness of the work are compromised.
A thrilling experience, Merry Christmas II You evokes fond memories of wintertimes; and where there's none, it proves to be very inspirational. To quote from the original 'Christmas Time Is in The Air Again' "Mr. Grinch simply can't resist/Warming up when he looks our way".
While Mariah Carey's first holiday album 'Merry Christmas' gave us the adored gem of a song 'All I Want For Christmas Is You', it was mainly a record that focused on the young artist and showcasing her talents. Far less self-conscious, 'Merry Christmas II You' puts YOU, the listener, center-stage. Here's a track-to-track analysis as to how it achieves that:
Santa Claus Is Coming to Town: A half-minute intro with NO VOCALS, it will warm your way to this sonic ride with bells and a timeless Christmas melody.
Oh Santa!: The album vocal opener is a festive fusion of Christmas bells, claps and background vocals over which Mariah's lyrics and voice race with the exuberance that often fills our hearts when we realize the holiday is fast approaching.
O Little Town of Bethlehem/Little Drummer Boy Medley: The first traditional song shares with its predecessor the magical sounds and sonic twinkles, gradually braking the rapid pace to the beat of the classic drum and vocal soaring of Mariah.
Christmas Time Is in The Air Again: The pace is slow and warm now, giving more room for a song that is more about content than distracting production. The lyrics and delivery of the those are evocative and heart-warming. Snuggle up with hot chocolate for full enjoyment.
The First Noel/Born Is The King: Another solid medley that takes its time, as Mariah Carey's signature melismatic unwrap the word 'Noel', sounding it out over and over again until the ambiance of the song becomes that of transcendental bliss. Twenty seconds after the 3 minute mark, the same treatment is given to 'Born Is The King' for a magical ending.
When Christmas Comes: This Jazzy number introduces horns and picks up the pace. A classic Mariah Carey mid-tempo cut, this song is reminiscent of 'The Emancipation of Mimi', which was in many ways a gift to Carey, her fans, and avid music listeners.
Here Comes Santa Claus (Right Down Santa Claus Lane)/Housetop Celebration: A song done right! Yes, the beat is faster, and the voice more restrained, but that is for a greater overall effect: the chorus and Christmas 'noise' will remind you of Christmas classics you watched on TV.
Charlie Brown Christmas: Thoroughly reimagined, this song carries on with the same feeling of inner joy, warmth and transcendental music. This song paves way to the album's undeniable true gift.
O Come All Ye Faithful/Hallelujah Chorus (feat. Patricia Carey): Significant on so many levels, and powerful beyond comprehension, this song finds Mariah Carey FINALLY introducing her listeners to the voice that molded her. Patricia's operatic voice and Mariah's stratospherically high notes blend and race to deliver THE BEST version of this Christmas classic. Your jaw will drop.
O Holy Night -Live from WPC In South Central Los Angeles: Another grand song, the live version of O Holy Night overflows with Carey's unmatchable vocal runs and high notes. Goose bumps and smiling heart, you will be transported to the middle of a Christmas concert.
One Child: By this song, you realize that Mariah Carey has enlisted grand choirs for the last three songs, taking you from one-on-one late-night-by-the-Christmas-tree vocal rides to communal festivities. 'One Child' is a beautiful song with a choir of children that will take you back to those school productions with your parents and/or children.
All I Want For Christmas Is You -Extra Festive: Indeed, this album is 'II You'. Mariah knows that this song is the modern Christmas classic that EVERYONE sings along to: at work, in school, on the way to the market, everywhere! And what better way to make it extra festive than to introduce it with the joyous chorus that we love to sing on the top of our lungs?!!
Auld Lang Syne -The New Year's Anthem: BEST VERSION of the song E.V.E.R.! The big vocals in the intro, the countdown, and the repetition of the chorus over dance music, Mariah's laughs and ad-libs -everything about this song is done to add cheer to your new year eve celebration!
This album overflows with Christmas cheer and transcendental festive moments. It will make your Christmas that much merrier. A great gift and a solid work.
A thrilling experience, Merry Christmas II You evokes fond memories of wintertimes; and where there's none, it proves to be very inspirational. To quote from the original 'Christmas Time Is in The Air Again' "Mr. Grinch simply can't resist/Warming up when he looks our way".
While Mariah Carey's first holiday album 'Merry Christmas' gave us the adored gem of a song 'All I Want For Christmas Is You', it was mainly a record that focused on the young artist and showcasing her talents. Far less self-conscious, 'Merry Christmas II You' puts YOU, the listener, center-stage. Here's a track-to-track analysis as to how it achieves that:
Santa Claus Is Coming to Town: A half-minute intro with NO VOCALS, it will warm your way to this sonic ride with bells and a timeless Christmas melody.
Oh Santa!: The album vocal opener is a festive fusion of Christmas bells, claps and background vocals over which Mariah's lyrics and voice race with the exuberance that often fills our hearts when we realize the holiday is fast approaching.
O Little Town of Bethlehem/Little Drummer Boy Medley: The first traditional song shares with its predecessor the magical sounds and sonic twinkles, gradually braking the rapid pace to the beat of the classic drum and vocal soaring of Mariah.
Christmas Time Is in The Air Again: The pace is slow and warm now, giving more room for a song that is more about content than distracting production. The lyrics and delivery of the those are evocative and heart-warming. Snuggle up with hot chocolate for full enjoyment.
The First Noel/Born Is The King: Another solid medley that takes its time, as Mariah Carey's signature melismatic unwrap the word 'Noel', sounding it out over and over again until the ambiance of the song becomes that of transcendental bliss. Twenty seconds after the 3 minute mark, the same treatment is given to 'Born Is The King' for a magical ending.
When Christmas Comes: This Jazzy number introduces horns and picks up the pace. A classic Mariah Carey mid-tempo cut, this song is reminiscent of 'The Emancipation of Mimi', which was in many ways a gift to Carey, her fans, and avid music listeners.
Here Comes Santa Claus (Right Down Santa Claus Lane)/Housetop Celebration: A song done right! Yes, the beat is faster, and the voice more restrained, but that is for a greater overall effect: the chorus and Christmas 'noise' will remind you of Christmas classics you watched on TV.
Charlie Brown Christmas: Thoroughly reimagined, this song carries on with the same feeling of inner joy, warmth and transcendental music. This song paves way to the album's undeniable true gift.
O Come All Ye Faithful/Hallelujah Chorus (feat. Patricia Carey): Significant on so many levels, and powerful beyond comprehension, this song finds Mariah Carey FINALLY introducing her listeners to the voice that molded her. Patricia's operatic voice and Mariah's stratospherically high notes blend and race to deliver THE BEST version of this Christmas classic. Your jaw will drop.
O Holy Night -Live from WPC In South Central Los Angeles: Another grand song, the live version of O Holy Night overflows with Carey's unmatchable vocal runs and high notes. Goose bumps and smiling heart, you will be transported to the middle of a Christmas concert.
One Child: By this song, you realize that Mariah Carey has enlisted grand choirs for the last three songs, taking you from one-on-one late-night-by-the-Christmas-tree vocal rides to communal festivities. 'One Child' is a beautiful song with a choir of children that will take you back to those school productions with your parents and/or children.
All I Want For Christmas Is You -Extra Festive: Indeed, this album is 'II You'. Mariah knows that this song is the modern Christmas classic that EVERYONE sings along to: at work, in school, on the way to the market, everywhere! And what better way to make it extra festive than to introduce it with the joyous chorus that we love to sing on the top of our lungs?!!
Auld Lang Syne -The New Year's Anthem: BEST VERSION of the song E.V.E.R.! The big vocals in the intro, the countdown, and the repetition of the chorus over dance music, Mariah's laughs and ad-libs -everything about this song is done to add cheer to your new year eve celebration!
This album overflows with Christmas cheer and transcendental festive moments. It will make your Christmas that much merrier. A great gift and a solid work.
9 of 9 people found the following review helpful
By Cool Beans
Format:MP3 Music
This album is great for old and new fans of Mariah. It's got everything from traditional standards to originals that Mariah co-wrote. Plus, she still has an amazing voice. :) You can dance to some of the songs on here like "Oh Santa" and "Auld Lang Syne." Strongly recommend!
Most Recent Customer Reviews
5.0 out of 5 stars
XMAS Album the Best
I like her music and I was blown away from this album songs. She is a great singer and I love her "Oh Santa" song letter -bring my baby home as my wish for this Christmas... Read more
Published 1 month ago by T. Underwood
4.0 out of 5 stars
I perffer "Merry Christmas I"
Don't get me wrong, I love this record, Mariah will always be number one as far as I'm concerned. You know she is a great vocalist, songwriter, and many, many things I can keep on... Read more
Published 2 months ago by belen_t.
5.0 out of 5 stars
Festive Christmas Album
This is a great Christmas album. Mariah has an amazing voice and I listen to this album every year to help get me into the Christmas spirit. Works every time!
Published 2 months ago by Michael Permann
5.0 out of 5 stars
Great CD
I bought this as a stocking stuffer for my fiance and she love this CD. She was glad to add this to her music collection.
Published 3 months ago by jkenn
2.0 out of 5 stars
Not even close to as good as the 1st!
I was really excited when I saw this in the MP3 store! I have owned the first album (Merry Christmas) since I can remember and LOVE it! Read more
Published 3 months ago by Christopher A Gill
3.0 out of 5 stars
All I wanted for Christmas!
Basically bought the cd for the "All I Want for Christmas is You", love that song. Some of the other songs are a little to pop for me, but it's definitely an upbeat... Read more
Published 4 months ago by Josephine V Miller
4.0 out of 5 stars
Mariah Xmas return
good cd but a few repeats and the new years song?. but how can anything she do be wrong, it cant.
Published 4 months ago by dmsearor3
5.0 out of 5 stars
MARIAH CAREY is Christmas
5 stars for this album..
my personal favourites: Oh Santa, One Child, When Christmas Comes, Auld Lang Syne (The New Year's Anthem)
my personal favourites: Oh Santa, One Child, When Christmas Comes, Auld Lang Syne (The New Year's Anthem)
Published 4 months ago by Joel J. Wilson
5.0 out of 5 stars
Merry Christmas II You
This is a great Mariah Christmas CD. I enjoyed listening to it during the holidays. It will be a part of my 2013 Christmas collection also. I recommend this item.
Published 4 months ago by Rubbob
5.0 out of 5 stars
Fabulous Christmas Album
If you love Christmas and Mariah Carey, you will adore this album. Besides the festive, beautifully sung music, you get some lovely Christmas cards you can actually use, a lovely... Read more
Published 4 months ago by E. Lotcpeich
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