Customer Reviews

Smooth & Soulful Christmas, Vol. 1

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This was another one of my post-Christmas bargains. As the title says, the 12 tracks on this disc are both smooth and soulful--with an emphasis on smooth. Song selections are almost evenly divided between the familiar and the original.

The Pointer Sisters start things upbeat with "Christmas in New York," along with a bouncy version of "Carol of the Bells." Al Jarreau performs two funky originals, including "Peggy Virginia" which he co-wrote. Fourplay provide two jazzy instrumentals--"It Came Upon a Midnight CLear" and "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen." These six tracks are debuting on this holiday release.

The other six tracks, like Take 6's haunting "Away in a Manger" and Anita Baker's gorgeous "Christmas Fantasy," were culled from previous holiday albums. Altogether, this makes for pleasant listening. [Running Time - 51:55] RECOMMENDED

Wow, a Christmas CD that has some new 2007 recordings from R&B legends of the 70's and 80's. Nice package of great singing, arrangements and songs. I bought it for the 2 new songs by the Pointer Sisters - the first studio recordings made since June Pointer passed away, and her niece Issa replaced her. Their version of " CAROL OF THE BELLS " is amazing - very spiritual, and highly intricate with the harmonies & layers of vocals. Plus, they do a new song " CHRISTMAS IN NEW YORK ". For that matter, any fan of the big name artists on this CD will want to have this collection for the new and rare songs that are on it.

Bought this CD on one of those insane, last minute gift searches and ended up keeping it for myself. The CD cover is awful ugly. But the music inside is a delightful surprize. If you have not heard any of these tracks before, trust me, this is good stuff. FourPlay, Anita Baker and strong bass lines played with a Christmas touch. You will thank me 12 times for letting you in on this jewel. My favorites: Anita Baker's "Christmas Fantasy"- listen to her phrasing over that beat; FourPlay's "It came upon a midnight clear"-a very heavy, aggressive piano with percussion and guitar to match; and Donna Summer's "Christmas Spirit"- the chorus is just inspiring. So there, in the end I did make a gift of this CD. Go for it, enjoy and Merry Christmas!