by bill biss
The Complete Christmas Recordings Andy Williams Andy Williams is synonymous with the sounds of
the season. As a singer extraordinaire, his holiday albums have become the festive fare for many a household during Christmastime. As both a tribute to the performer who died last year and a solid re- minder that his voice will always be a traditional part of this time of year, there is The Complete Christmas Recordings. 42 perennial classics make up the two- CD set, as Williams truly earned the nickname of “Mr. Christmas.” Available now.
Let It Snow: A Holiday Collection Jewel After over a decade, Jewel heads into the vault of
Wrapped in Red Kelly Clarkson Pop and country music’s independent gal Kelly
Clarkson is bringing her own strong vocal qualities to the sounds of Christmas with her very first holiday release Wrapped in Red. “Underneath the Tree” is a Motown-inspired and “upbeat but feeling blue” styled song written by Clarkson and producer Greg Kurstin. It’s one of two new songs added to this collection of 14 Christmas classics. Clarkson is also joined by Reba McEntire and Trisha Yearwood for “Silent Night.” Available now.
A Mary Christmas Mary J. Blige Mary J. Blige returns to the “child” within and
the spiritual and magical qualities of Christmas with A Mary Christmas. The perennial favorites are presented with both lush orchestrations and a vibrant R&B groove. Blige’s voice beautifully delivers a relaxed and inspired set… whether it’s setting the tone with the jazz-flavored “This Christmas” or add- ing a solemn majesty to “Little Drummer Boy.” A Mary Christmas truly evokes the spirit of Christmas on all counts. Available now.
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holiday music once more for her second collection of Christmas music,Let It Snow: A Holiday Collection. The result this time around presents her natural flair and distinctive vocal qualities, wrapped in a selection of upbeat material that captures the essence and the spirit of the season. No holiday hysterics here, just straightforward and beautiful renditions of beloved classics. Available now.
Dr. Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical Broadway Cast Recording A beloved Christmas television classic How The
Grinch Stole Christmas! successfully adapted into a hit Broadway production is now available as a world- premiere recording. Patrick Paige, who originated the title role in New York, is showcased on this Broad- way Masterworks release with John Cullum vocal- izing as “Old Max” the narrator. Those who delight in pure theatrical fun can take this home to add to their holiday selections of spirited music. Available now.
The Fitzgerald Family Christmas The dynamics of an Irish-American family living in
Boston are severely tested when the family patriarch returns unexpectedly during the holidays after a long absence. Actor Edwards Burns plays“Garry,”the son and functioning head of this household of seven adult children, all coming to terms with their father’s return and the effects on the family. The film is a well-done alternative to saccharine holiday viewing. Available now.
Despicable Me 2 A marvelously entertaining sequel, Despicable Me
2 brings “Gru” (Steve Carell) and the hilarious antics of the Minions back. Filled with a fast-paced plot, delightful animation and a non-stop scenario of gags created for pure laughter, DM2 is the perfect choice for “children” of all ages. Bonus features include a batch of three new “mini” movies starring the Minions, cast interviews and commentary by the directors. Available December 10.
The Family Chaos ensues as a former mob leader and his family
are relocated to France under the witness protection program. Robert DeNiro, the former mafioso and Michelle Pfeiffer, as his wife, discover that old habits die hard and even their two teenage kids have picked up the “family” ways. The Family is a solid mix of dark humor, action and ultimately suspense. Available December 17.
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