Customer Reviews

The Story of Christmas

5 star:		(6)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

The singing is clear and precise -- and it has to be, because these arrangements are full of innovative and challenging harmonies, especially "The Boar's Head Carol" and "O Come, O Come, Emmanuel." It's all pretty, but it's not wallpaper music; your attention is rewarded, and you will keep noticing new aspects of familiar old tunes. There are also a couple of songs that were new to me: "And Is It True" and "I Believe in Father Christmas." Both have modern, sensitive texts that are worth thinking about (not just more sentimental drivel). The performances are sharp -- one thing I always appreciate about the Swingles is their balance. The melody is always there, and the rest of the (a cappella) accompaniment is perfectly distinguished. The renditions are sometimes bouncy ("We Three Kings") but always elegant.

If you are familiar with this group only from their old "doo be doo" days, know that this album is different. They sing the words. However, I dearly wish someone would have the sense to re-issue (on CD) their doo-be-doo Christmas album of carols from around the world, recorded in the 1970s. It was a stunningly arranged gem, with tons of lovely, less-familiar tunes.

I know I am preaching to the choir of any SS fans who are reading this, but the arrangement of Silent Night on this CD is simply the best I've heard. Each voice of the Octet is not only pitch perfect, but also at the right volume level. It's a joy to listen to, especially on the whole notes realizing that no one voice is dominating.

For those expecting to hear traditional harmonies in this acappella collection of carols and other Christmas songs, this will be a huge disappointment. But for those who like to hear a fresh take on old favorites the Swingles certainly deliver. I particularly enjoyed "Silent Night", a simple melody with harmonies with which Gruber (and purists) might struggle, but so rewarding to more adventurous 21st century ears.

With the Swingle Singers' combination of remarkable vocal agility and virtuosity, peerless blend, and extraordinary arrangements, this recording was bound to be a winner. The "Carol Medley" is truly brilliant, combining six carols - sometimes more than one carol at once - with mind-boggling skill. "White Christmas" is another gem, set to sophisticated harmonies but never overly complicated in a way that could overwhelm this touchingly simple song. "Jingle Bells" is also astonishing, as are several other tracks on this CD. If you're a fan of great ensemble singing and outstanding arrangements, this recording is a must.

How do you 'jazz up' a Christmas hymn while maintaining reverence and respect, thus adding to tradition rather than detracting?

Listen and learn. Great stuff.

I have so many Christmas CDs that I can't listen to them all in one year, but never fail to listen to this one every Christmas. I have given it as a gift many times.

I absolutely love this album .It is a wonderful mix of classic traditional and hip jazz arranging . Buy it and please everyone!