A Joyful Noise

Jo Dee Messina

Product Details

• Audio CD (October 29, 2002)
• Original Release Date: October 29, 2002
• Number of Discs: 1
• Label: Curb Special Markets
• ASIN: B00006JM1Y
• In-Print Editions: MP3 Download
• Average Customer Review: 4.4 out of 5 stars See all reviews (18 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #128,320 in Music (See Bestsellers in Music)

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com
Just when you resign yourself to the fact that everything's probably been done in the world of holiday albums, a disc like A Joyful Noise comes along. Not that there's exactly anything new about the collection: with the exception of two originals, including the title track, the choices are all classics. But Jo Dee Messina brings a unique charm, warmth, and subtle sexiness to standards like "The Christmas Song" and "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas," attributes that are often missing from yuletide releases. As a vocalist, Messina could teach today's pop divas a thing or two about how to create memorable vocals without resorting to histrionics. Vince Gill shows up to add even more charm on a duet of "Silver Bells." The nifty arrangements certainly count for a lot, and something like the haunting harmonica solo on "Let It Snow!" is truly unique to recordings of that particular song. But in the end, it's Messina's wonderful voice, spirit, and personality that make this the finest Christmas release of 2002. --Bill Holdship

Product Description
Jo Dee recorded this album live in the studio backed by a full orchestra. By doing so, the project took on a new dynamic, with Jo Dee rising to the occasion. The first Christmas album from the multi-Platinum artist. Curb Records. 2002.

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

4 of 4 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Not typical Jo Dee but very nice, August 31, 2003

By	Peter Durward Harris "Pete the music fan" (Leicester England) - See all my reviews (TOP 10 REVIEWER)    (REAL NAME)

Jo Dee built her success on predominately up-tempo songs recorded in a contemporary country style. I therefore expected that any Christmas album would reflect that, but I realized from other reviews that this album is not like that at all. In fact, this is a generally mellow album, with an orchestral backing used sparingly but effectively. The result is an album that bears no relation to the contemporary country scene, but is nevertheless a very enjoyable listening experience - at least to me, though some country fans will inevitably be alienated. While this is different from Jo Dee's other work, it is an easy-listening musical style that I appreciate in a different way.

Jo Dee demonstrates that she can sing with restraint as she works her way through a succession of classic Christmas songs. Only towards the end of the set does she loosen up, but even then she does not use the full power of her voice, which is on her other albums. After all the classics, the album ends with two excellent original songs.

Jo Dee's die-hard fans will accept this change of style as a contrast to her other albums, as will those (like me) with eclectic tastes. If you are looking for a contemporary country Christmas album, this is not it. Likewise, Jo Dee's less committed fans may hesitate. If in doubt, you might be wise to listen to some of it before buying. I thought long and hard before buying this but I'm very glad I did.

4 of 4 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A voice made for caroling..., November 17, 2002

By	K. Stuckey "kateling" (Port Huron, MI USA) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

I know it's still kind of early yet, but Jo Dee's (finally!) holiday CD has got me in the spirit. The only thing more exciting than the CD is her upcoming Christmas tour!

Jo Dee seems to stretch out her voice more than usual and at the same time, it is soft (most noticeable on "I'll Be Home For Christmas"). "Sleigh Ride" is playful and upbeat, and her version of "Let it Snow" is trademark Jo Dee sassy, especially cute on both is the pause...then giggle at the end. Another very cool thing is the children used as background singers on "Winter Wonderland". Slightly more experienced background singers join Jo Dee on "What Child is This" (Kenny Rogers) and "Silver Bells" (Vince Gill)

"Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" gives me chills when I hear it, it is just Jo Dee and a piano - it is very touching in its simplicity. Jo Dee co-wrote "Keep the Faith" in her usual style of rising above hardships - it is the best song on the CD! Also original is the title track, about the hope of the season.

Masterfully produced with always wonderful work by the Nashville String Machine, Jo Dee's holiday CD is heads above the others. Her personal story and the pictures in the liner notes make this truly a must-have!

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars New Twist on Old Classics, November 25, 2002

By	J. Bouvier "Shutterbug" (Northeast) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

Jo Dee Messina has outdone herself once more. Not only did she co-produce this nostalgic collection, she recorded it LIVE in the studio and rises to the occassion in her usual fashion. All of these timeless classics take on a whole new meaning and sound when Jo Dee sings them for us; with feeling and warmth. She's a real pro and proves it to us on this cd. You'll be able to see why people go in droves to see her perform live...it's what she was born to do.