December

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With his GQ looks and warm, seductive brass tone, trumpet player Chris Botti has what it takes to command attention. This lovely recording will appeal to deeper jazz fans as much as to easy-listening and fusion aficionados. From brooding and bubbling arrangements of holiday standards to the original, radio-perfect ballad "Perfect Day" (featuring the talented horn man on vocals), Botti and his various ensembles deliver 13 tracks of comfort and joy, plus a taste of fleeting, seasonal melancholy that recalls Chet Baker. The more somber moods are brightened, however, by such merry fare as the Brazilian arrangement of "Santa Claus Is Coming to Town" and the swinging "Winter Wonderland." You probably won't hear a more romantic (or ironic) version of "O Little Town of Bethlehem," and when was the last time a Leonard Cohen tune ("Hallelujah") appeared on any Christmas disc? December is tasty throughout and highly recommended. --Martin Keller

December,Chris Botti,Sony,Christmas,Christmas / Chanukkah,Christmas Music,Contemporary Jazz,Crossover Jazz,Holiday,Instrumental Pop,Pop,Smooth Jazz,Xmas Vocal

Average customer rating: Love Her Miss Independent, Miss Self-Sufficient, Miss Keep Your Distance Never Again Flawed, but real - and important Waste of money

My December Kelly Clarkson Manufacturer: RCA Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music General | Adult Contemporary | Pop | Styles | Music General | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music Adult Alternative | Pop | Styles | Music Similar Items: Lost Highway It Won't Be Soon Before Long Wild Hope Daughtry The Best Damn Thing [CLEAN] ASIN: B000QFAJ7S Release Date: 2007-06-26

Tracks:

1. Never Again
2. One Minute
3. Hole
4. Sober
5. Don't Waste Your Time
6. Judas
7. Haunted
8. Be Still
9. Maybe
10. How I Feel
11. Yeah
12. Can I Have A Kiss
13. Irvine

Amazon.com

Judging by the themes of anger and betrayal that dominate Kelly Clarkson's third disc, My December, perhaps 'Jagged Little Idol' would have been a more telling title. According to interviews, the massively successful artist wanted more creative control with her music going forward; as a result, unlike her previous CDs, Clarkson contributes as a songwriter on every track. The final product is not nearly as catchy as Breakaway, but is far more introspective and honest. My December's overall sound brings a harder musical style than fans might expect, with acerbic lyrics to match; the disc's first single "Never Again"--a dark rock song slamming her ex-boyfriend--is certainly a tip-off. The compelling chorus of "Hole" finds Clarkson singing "There's a hole/inside of me/it's so damn cold/slowly killing me" over a melody that is far more Tool than top-40. "Haunted" and "Judas" are wrought-over tracks that veer into Evanescence territory, while the wonderfully sparse "Maybe" is a highlight within which Clarkson's pleading voice is perfectly showcased. My December's final listed track, "Irvine" (prior to the hidden bluesy acoustic ballad "Chivas") sounds far more Cat Power-meets-Corinne Bailey Rae than Clarkson, but it is certainly one of the most captivating songs on the disc, and serves as yet another reminder of just how versatile her voice is. Fans of her previous radio-friendly releases may well be divided on her new direction, but it appears to be the path Clarkson is likely to continue to travel. --Denise Sheppard

More from Kelly Clarkson

Breakaway

Thankful

Since U Been Gone

Customer Reviews:

Love Her.......2007-07-19

I love this CD - I loved Never Again the first time I heard it on American idol, but it took me a few times through to like the CD in total, but if you listen, it tells a story of her pain and healing. My boyfriend thinks she is just male bashing, but I don't agree at all. It is like her singing is her therapy. Anyhow, I love it. Her singing moves me because it is coming from her heart and you can tell!

Miss Independent, Miss Self-Sufficient, Miss Keep Your Distance.......2007-07-19

For some reason, Kelly Clarkson's great album "My December" has taken some observers by surprise. But have some already forgotten that her first single from "Thankful" was called MISS INDEPENDENT? Apparently so. But for those with short-term memory, let me remind you:

"Miss independent / Miss Self-sufficient / Miss keep your distance / Miss unafraid / Miss out of my way / Miss don't let a man interfere / Miss on her own / Miss almost grown / Miss never let a man help her off her throne"

This song was originally a Christina Aguilera throwaway, but in retrospect we can see that it fits Clarkson like a glove. In fact, we all should have seem "My December" coming from a mile away. Kelly Clarkson refused to let her vision be put on a shelf in a backroom somewhere and that should come as no surprise. Not only is "My December" her BEST album to date, but it's also her most self-assured and confident. The puppet masters have been left in the dust and what we're left with is nothing short of fabulous. It's honest, organic, and doesn't sound like it came out of the latest Idol convention. Thank goodness.

"Breakaway" was an excellent album for Kelly Clarkson, but "My December" is far superior in every sense. The music is more sophisticated, the lyrics are more personal, and finally I can actually relate to this one so much more. With respect to this album being less catchy, I would disagree. I think "My December" has far more energy than its predecessor. Songs like "One Minute," "How I Feel," "Don't Waste Your Time," "Maybe," "Can I have A Kiss," "Yeah," "Never Again" are easy to get along with. This album is more heavy-handed, but it's peppier. My favorite song on the album is "Hole" and it's her most Rock track that she's recorded. But it's sensational. Overall, Kelly's new album is a more mature version of "Breakaway" but not a huge departure.

If you liked "Breakaway" then I would give "My December" a chance. You don't want to miss out on her best record thus far.

Never Again.......2007-07-19

I don't own the album, but if Never Again is a preview of what is to become of Kelly Clarkson and her music, I say go girl -- it's a bit edgier than her other music. The song kind of reminds me of something along the lines of Pat Benatar -- and we all loved Pat Benatar!

You go Kelly!

Flawed, but real - and important.......2007-07-19

When I saw Clive Davis talk about Art as the selling of millions of units of product on the final American Idol show (6th season), I found him crass, vulgar and offensive, but I didn't actually realize that he was implicitly snubbing Kelly Clarkson. In retrospect, it's evident to us all. And in response to that kind of struggle - artist vs mogul - I'm far from alone, I suspect, in finding myself coming down strongly on the side of the artist. I may not have bought this album otherwise -maybe I'd have had my daughter burn me a few songs from it - but I sure bought it under these circumstances.

That having been said, there is something missing on My December - seasoned songwriting. There are few hooks and none to match something of the caliber of Breakaway. The melodies are a bit repetitious and don't have that crafted grace that the best pop has - even edgy stuff of this character. Nevertheless, My December has an abundance of sincerity, honesty and integrity. It was obviously an important part of Kelly Clarkson's artistic journey and it needed to be made. Some of the tracks are achingly sweet, though always wistful, poignant or downright depressing. Sober and Irvine are standouts. Her incredible voice does occasionally veer toward being shrill but more often delivers raw emotional power and authority. She clearly felt this music deeply and so does this listener. I'm surprised that Mr. Davis, in all his years of so-called experience, hasn't yet learned that allowing the artist to be true to her vision will ultimately serve her growth, maturity, and yes, Clive, ultimately even her earning potential. Kelly Clarkson is only 25; There's a lot more to the story yet to be written.

Waste of money.......2007-07-18

I have a great deal of respect for Kelly Clarkson her voice is amazing. However, this cd is Kelly at her worst. I found it interesting that many comments state that Kelly has matured on this cd this could not be farther from the truth. The lyrics are at times whinney, bitter, and down right nasty. Aspects which do not automatically prove maturity. Do not buy this cd it is a waste of money!!! I'm sorry I did.

Average customer rating: Twenty Years later... Still Excellent! a must have for a musical library George Winston's December Love this CD Multi-mood music

December, Piano Solos: 20th Anniversary Edition George Winston Manufacturer: RCA Victor ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Jazz | Styles | Music General | New Age | Styles | Music Solo Instrumental | New Age | Styles | Music General | Adult Contemporary | Pop | Styles | Music Adult Alternative | Pop | Styles | Music General Christmas | Holiday | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music General | Jazz | Indie Music | Stores | Music General | New Age | Indie Music | Stores | Music Adult Contemporary | Pop | Indie Music | Stores | Music General Christmas | Holiday Music | Special Features | Music Similar Items: Autumn (Windham Hill 20th Anniversary Edition) Winter into Spring Montana: A Love Story Forest Linus & Lucy: The Music Of Vince Guaraldi ASIN: B00005NNDO Release Date: 2001-10-16

Tracks:

1. Thanksgiving
2. Jesus, Jesus, Rest Your Head
3. Joy
4. Prelude
5. Carol Of The Bells
6. Night-Part One: Snow
7. Night-Part Two: Midnight
8. Night-Part Three: Minstrels
9. Variations On The Kanon By Pachelbel
10. The Holly And The Ivy
11. Some Children See Him
12. Peace
13. A Christmas Song
14. Sleep Baby Mine

Amazon.com essential recording

December holds the distinction of single-handedly putting Windham Hill on the map and being the new age album most likely to find its way into music collections of all ilk. In spite of being relentlessly overplayed during the holidays, the solo piano recording has aged quite well. Winston shapes holiday war-horses and original compositions into a captivating contemporary statement. His spare, understated style captures the feel of the dark season, employing ample resonance to evoke a reflective spaciousness. The album's straightforward simplicity conveys both the celebration and quietude that characterize the best of the Yuletide spirit. --Richard Price

Amazon.com

A quintessential example of George Winston's "folk piano" style, December speaks to the spirit of the season. Mixing traditional carols, a couple of classical works, and his own originals, Winston drops notes with icy clarity into a winter silence, rippling through "Carol of Bells" and coaxing dark, introspective moods from his own suite, "Night." The pianist's liner notes are also a trip as he cites the numerous sources for his music. Who would've thought that the gentle melodies of "Peace" were inspired by the soundtrack to TV's The Outer Limits? This 20th anniversary edition, which includes two bonus tracks, is a vast sonic improvement over previous releases. --John Diliberto

Customer Reviews:

Twenty Years later... Still Excellent!.......2007-05-28

December, Piano Solos: 20th Anniversary Edition, by George Winston is about as close to perfect as you can get. Winston phenomenal interpretations and originals form a masterpeice. Classified as a Holiday album, I agree with many of the other reviewers that this is an album to enjoy all through the year. Although each selection here is very good, Variations On The Kanon By Pachelbel is simply a wonderful piece. I did have the pleasure of seeing George Winston in concert and I would receommend that any fan try to experience the music live with introductions by the pianist.

An outstanding 5 star CD.

a must have for a musical library.......2007-03-26

this cd album is extremely moving and has value because of the evocative power of some of the pieces it contains.

George Winston's December.......2007-03-09

I have a copy of the vinyl since it was released. Though I love the quality of the vinyl, I want to bring December with me wherever I go. The two additional cuts in the anniversary issue are lovely, but I would have been equally happy with the original.

Love this CD.......2007-03-08

Perfect for the holidays (but I listen to it all year)! Anything by George Winston is fabulous.

Multi-mood music.......2007-01-29

I love this CD! The best part about this music is that I can listen to it regardles of what mood I'm in and the music fits perfectly. The Sheet music for "Variations of the Kanon by Pachelbel" is a great bonus.

Average customer rating: December's Children has too much filler Their best early release in the US Not an SACD Not the Best, but pretty important Stupendously Fantastic

December's Children (And Everybody's) The Rolling Stones , and Rolling Stones Manufacturer: Abkco ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Blues Rock | Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music General | Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Music Hard Rock | Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Music British Invasion | Classic Rock | Styles | Music Supergroups | Classic Rock | Styles | Music General | Classic Rock | Styles | Music $9.99 and Under | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Pop | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Classic Rock | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Rock | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Alternative Rock | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music All Blowout Music | Blowout Music | Stores | Music $9.99 and Under | Prices | Blowout Music | Stores | Music More Titles at Least 25% Off | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Out Of Our Heads England's Newest Hitmakers 12 X 5 The Rolling Stones Now! Flowers ASIN: B00006AW2R Release Date: 2002-09-03

Tracks:

1. She Said Yeah
2. Talking About You
3. You Better Move On
4. Look What You've Done
5. The Singer Not the Song
6. Route 66
7. Get off of My Cloud
8. I'm Free
9. As Tears Go By
10. Gotta Get Away
11. Blue Turns to Grey
12. I'm Movin' On

Amazon.com essential recording

Before this 1965 blues-rock masterpiece, the Stones were the best of the many British bands living out their Muddy Waters dress-up fantasies. They continue giving new life to old songs, such as Arthur Alexander's soul tearjerker "You Better Move On" and the Nat King Cole standard "Route 66," but there are several exciting new developments. Keith Richards and Mick Jagger discover their songwriting talents, coming up with the enduring "Get Off My Cloud" and "As Tears Go By" as well as the underappreciated "I'm Free." And drummer Charlie Watts focuses the swing-jazz fills that have defined the Stones as much as the writing, voices, and guitars. --Steve Knopper

Amazon.com

Dig how even a tossed-together cash-in by the Stones' U.S. label--the group's third American album of 1965--ends up smoking like all but their very best. They invent thrash with the opener, "She Said Yeah" (a Specialty Records obscurity penned, under a pseudonym, by Sonny Bono!) before laying down a leering "Talkin' 'Bout You," a frenetic "I'm Movin' On" and their most consistent, varied list of originals yet. Dig, too, how even "As Tears Go By" sounds like a sneer in the midst of "Get Off of My Cloud," "Gotta Get Away," "I'm Free" and the dourly off-key "Blue Turns to Grey." --Rickey Wright

Album Description

This Super Audio Compact Disc (SACD) recording offers high-resolution sound and is playable on both standard CD players and SACD-compatible devices.

Album Description

Full Title - December's Children (& Everybody's). Remastered reissue of 1965 album, suitable for standard & 'Super Audio' CD players. Digipak. Abkco. 2002.

Customer Reviews:

December's Children has too much filler.......2007-03-16

This is perhaps the weakest album in the Rolling Stones 60's catalog. But don't blame the band, this is the record companies fault. Sure there are some great tunes here like She Said Yeah, Get off of My Cloud, As Tears Go By and some decent tunes like You Better Move On and I'm Free. But there's just too much weak material, songs like Talking About You, Look What You've Done, The Singer Not the Song, Gotta Get Away and Blue Turns to Grey feel flat. Then the live renditions of Route 66 and I'm Movin' On are alright, but feel like fun filler.


December's Children (And Everybody's) ~ The Rolling Stones: 2 1/2 stars

Their best early release in the US.......2007-02-02

Even though it's a US compilation of British leftovers that weren't on the previous US albums. No matter, this record plays as the Stones best and strongest pre-aftermath album.

Not an SACD.......2007-01-31

I bought this because it is listed as an SACD.
What I was sent is a DSD disc. It does not register as an SACD on my player. It sounds miserable.
What gives, has the SACD been replaced by this other format?
It's one of my favorite Stones albums. I am not pleased.

Not the Best, but pretty important.......2007-01-16

December's Children comes off as a rather uneven document of the Stones' song-writing prowess and a scattershotrock record in its own right. Nonetheless, their identity as a band distinct from the British invasion clones really emerges on these tracks.

Stupendously Fantastic.......2006-06-13

This is an absolute stunner of a record. The bad boys of Rock and Roll really go to town with Chuck Berry's "Talkin' About You," and Bobby Troup's "Route 66." The latter being one of the two live songs on the record. The timeless "As Tears Go By," written by Mick and Keith along with group manage Andrew Oldham," has got to be one of the signature songs of a generation. According to my folks, it was the Boomer's big make out song. Hey, I've made out to it too, the song really is timeless. The other Mick and Keith songs that I really like are "Blue Turns to Grey" and "Get off My Cloud." Brian's slide guitar on the live version of "I'm Moving On" is stupendous, in fact the whole record is stupendously fantastic.

Average customer rating: It's all led up to this Too Good For Corporate American Radio Holy Glam Rock! Maria McKee Saves Rock N Roll Maria does it again...and again...and again...and again A Sheer Sonic Delight

Late December Maria McKee Manufacturer: Cooking Vinyl ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Alt-Country & Americana | Country | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Country Rock | Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Adult Alternative | Pop | Styles | Music Similar Items: Live Acoustic Tour 2006 Scarred Palms & Runes, Tarot & Tea: A Michael Penn Collection Peddlin' Dreams Breakfast in Bed ASIN: B000MRA88A Release Date: 2007-04-24

Tracks:

1. Late December
2. No Other Way To Love You
3. A Good Heart
4. Power On, Little Star
5. Too Many Heroes
6. Destine
7. My First Night Without You
8. Scene Of The Affair
9. Cat In The Wall
10. One Eye On The Sky (One ON The Grave)
11. Bannow
12. Straving Pretty

Amazon.com

Even in the early days of her solo career, Maria McKee had a penchant for penning dramatic melodies that seemed more conducive to Broadway than to contemporary radio. In fact, the former Lone Justice frontwoman makes reference to criticisms of that theatrical style in between songs on her "Live Acoustic Tour" CD. Pandering to no one, McKee continues to distance herself from her country roots on her sixth studio release, Late December, writing what might be best described as 'pop-ras,' miniature contemporary pseudo-operas sung in open-throated vibrato. "Destine" is a prime example, echoing Queen's "A Night at the Opera" with it's dramatic vocals and grandiose guitar solo. "Scene of the Affair" evokes a similar sensibility, as McKee mournfully sings "Four walls and a bed/best to let the dead rest with the dead." Those who prefer the old Maria will find a handful of songs to satiate their thirsty musical pallet. "My First Night Without You" has a soul/country cross that allows McKee to vocally shine; other notable moments include the gospel-infused ending to the title track and the infectious '60s Motown styling of "No Other Way to Love You." The one song that will likely please fans of both musical camps is McKee's inclusion of "A Good Heart," a track that she wrote at 18 years of age which became a worldwide hit for an Irish artist named Feargal Sharkey. --Denise Sheppard

Customer Reviews:

It's all led up to this.......2007-07-13

If you saw Lone Justice back in the day, you're a Maria Mckee fan. But thought she was always one of the great live performers, and an enormously talented songwriter, the recordings (both LJ and her own) were, by almost all accounts, an eclectic and mixed bag.

But here she is, part Edith Piaf, part Freddie Mercury, blasting through an outrageous set of operatic pop-rock that is about the most startlingly bold CD in recently memory. Hearing it is like when you first heard Jeff Buckley's "Grace": ohmygodohmygod, this person is out of his/her mind, shooting for the stars, and talented enough to pull it off. Wow.

This is the one we've been waiting for. And it's thrilling that in her forties, she is doing, without a doubt, absolutely her barking best work.

The gorgeous space of the opener, "Late December," sets you up. Then she rollicks along with the almost Motownish "No Other Way to Love You" (though the Rob Halford screeches mark it as a song only Mckee could sing). We're all glad to finally have her own studio recording of the classic "A Good Heart." And the next three only get better, with McKee out-Queening Queen on "Destine."

I could go on... every song is excellent, and the flow is dramatic and compelling.

If you're looking for a safe listen in a particular style you like to be able to ignore while you do something else, take a pass. But if you appreciate what can happen when a great songwriter, performer, and student of pop goes completely for broke, check it out.

Too Good For Corporate American Radio.......2007-06-17

Continuing her penchant of putting out great albums (this being her third studio album since returning in 2003 after a seven-year studio hiatus) that are too good for corporate radio, Maria McKee's LATE DECEMBER is another stunning work from one of the finest and most painfully underappreciated (at least by the public) vocalists of the last thirty-plus years.

In contrast with 2005's PEDDLIN' DREAMS (a rustic acoustic folk/country/rock affair that sort of harkened back to her Lone Justice days), LATE DECEMBER harkens back to the power-pop/rock eclecticism of her 2003 comeback HIGH DIVE. Her voice soars on all twelve tracks, written either by her alone or in collaboration with her producer husband Jim Akin, in such a way as to make her perfect for Broadway. But there's the R&B influences as well, on the title track and "No Other Way To Love You." And there is also the kind of cautionary note on "One Eye On The Sky (One On The Grave)", which is faintly reminiscent of HIGH DIVE's "From Our TV Teens To The Tomb."

What this album, and all of those in Maria's canon, dating all the way back to Lone Justice, shows is that she has always had the goods in every facet and has always had a hugely eclectic musical pallet--and, unfortunately, has also been far too good to be accepted on corporate radio in America. This is why it is best to pick up this CD and experience this tremendously gifted and youthful lady who still packs a vocal punch in her early 40s.

Holy Glam Rock! Maria McKee Saves Rock N Roll.......2007-05-09

Holy Glam Rock! Maria McKee saves Rock N Roll single handedly with this glam rock explosion! What an amazing power-pop record. The second song, No Other Way To Love You sums up what Rock has been missing. Life is sweet, indeeed! This album has restored my faith in Rock!

Maria does it again...and again...and again...and again.......2007-04-28

Ahhhhh Maria. Still not doing what everyone expects of you. Why doesn't she play this? Why doesn't she record that? Why doesn't each new record sound like the last one? How do we solve a problem like Maria?

You little diva indeed.

In my opinion, the new album is flippin' brilliant. My favourite so far, I think. Truly. Amazing. No Other Way to Love You may be the most gorgeously perfect pop song she's ever recorded. I am 3 months sober and Power On, Little Star leaves me shaking and in tears. I LOVE Destine - killer hook in it. Would love to see her play it live. And Starving Pretty is rich and full and melodic and...again...Maria breaks my heart. Did I mention Late December? Uhhh, goosebumps. The end of a relationship? The end of a career? The end of a life? But still, the hope of starting over. Maria sees the bleakness but holds onto hope.

This woman is a genius. I cannot believe we have been blessed with five (count 'em, five) Maria albums since 2003. Around year 2000, I seriously wondered if we would ever hear from her again. I believe that LD is a more accomplished, cohesive album than High Dive. The production is stellar and exciting and Maria seems to understand now that, no matter what, her voice needs to stay front and center in the mix. She and Jim have done a remarkable job with this one.

Thank you, Maria, for a lifetime of music and passion and hope.

Life is sweet.

Caution: Rant ahead:
Why? Why? Why does every song/album that Maria records HAVE to be compared to some other sound/singer/genre, blah, blah, blah? Has the world not figured out yet that she is her very own universe, guided by her own insane muse? It's obvious. It's been obvious for a long time. She's not interested in doing the same thing twice. Ever. Let's all get over it. She's never doing an album of Bob Dylan covers. Ain't gonna happen! Record critics are truly out-to-lunch. Thank God for Thom Jurek!

A Sheer Sonic Delight.......2007-04-27

As my wife can attest, I am a mark for all things Maria - and have been since buying that first Lone Justice album back in 1985. Yes, of course, through the years she's evolved, exploring different musical terrains and challenging us fans - as all artists should. As far as this album: it's a sheer sonic delight that echoes the likes of David Bowie, the Drifters, Laura Nyro, Queen, Lou Reed, Bruce Springsteen and many others. Yet, as with all of her albums, the end result is 100-percent Maria: eccentric, heartfelt, theatrical and ... just plain addictive.

The finger-snapping title cut, about love on its last legs - or maybe just the fear of such ("baby, when can we start over?") - conjures NYC in winter with its bed of Nyro-like vocal flourishes and "Walk on the Wild Side"-esque spoken-word interludes. Another favorite: "No Other Way to Love You," which builds from its "On Broadway"-like intro to become ... well, I already used the word "addictive," but I'll use it again. It's a sweeping, hypnotic song about giving one's self over to love in total: "Want to talk about your wild horses/and the strength of 100 men/Attila and all his forces/couldn't keep me away from him ...." You'll feel Maria's sweat flying from the speakers, guaranteed. (Check out the guitar work on it, too.)

Other highlights: her cover of her own "A Good Heart," originally a hit for Feargal Sharkey way back when; the aching "My First Night without You"; the utterly poetic, operatic rocker "One Eye on the Sky (One Eye on the Grave)," in which she demonstrates why she's sometimes called "a punk Edith Piaf"; and the closing "Starving Pretty," in which she sings a song for starving artists everywhere: "lean on me, baby/we're going to make it/we're paperthin/we're gonna win...." The most challenging song, I suppose, is the oddball "Cat in the Wall" - but (as often is the case with Maria) there's a metaphor at play there. In a way, it's a bit like having a cat knead you - it's wonderful even though the tips of its claws dig a bit into the skin.

Of course, having singled out those seven songs, I feel compelled to single out the other five. I won't but, suffice it to say, "Late December" is an album that demands repeated plays; and, as all great albums, gets better with each listen.

Average customer rating: Soothing, moving, delightful! Great sound!! A Welcoming Journey Through the Holiday Season A Jazzy Christmas Album Smooth Jazz

December Chris Botti Manufacturer: Columbia ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Jazz | Styles | Music Vocal Jazz General | Vocal Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music Smooth Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music General | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music Orchestral Pop | Easy Listening | Pop | Styles | Music General Christmas | Holiday | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music Opera & Vocal | Holiday | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music General Christmas | Holiday Music | Special Features | Music Similar Items: When I Fall In Love James Taylor at Christmas To Love Again Chris Botti - Live - With Orchestra & Special Guests The Very Best of Chris Botti ASIN: B000I0QKD8 Release Date: 2006-10-10

Tracks:

1. The Christmas Song
2. Ave Maria
3. Winter Wonderland
4. The First Noel
5. Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!
6. Hallelujah
7. I Really Don't Want Much For Christmas
8. Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas
9. Santa Claus Is Coming To Town
10. Silent Night
11. Little Drummer Boy
12. O Little Town Of Bethlehem
13. I'll Be Home For Christmas

Customer Reviews:

Soothing, moving, delightful!.......2007-06-26

I am not the trumpet enthusiast my husband is, so when I requested this CD to please his palate, I was dubious about how much I would enjoy adding it to the holiday CD rotation. It is fabulous! It feels both fresh and familiar at the same time, soothing, yet festive. Particularly impressive is the beautiful arrangement of Ave Maria. A wonderful, (for the most part) instrumental holiday collection I would recommend to all - no jazz experience required!

Great sound!!.......2007-01-12

This cd is a must if you like holiday music and Chris Botti's sound. Have seen Mr. Botti a couple of times in concert. His music live and on cd are both wonderful. Encourage anyone who enjoys jazz to purchase this cd and others from Mr. Botti. You will be glad you did.

A Welcoming Journey Through the Holiday Season.......2007-01-11

Chris Botti's music for the holiday season delivers with the essence of peace, love and a level of spirituality so welcome at a time when, try as we might, chaos seems to reign in our lives. It's the middle of January and I am still listening to this inspiring CD. BRAVO.

A Jazzy Christmas Album.......2007-01-10

Finally a Christmas album that doesn't make me sick with the syrupy sweet, tired lyrics. I've heard it said that as entertainers achieve fame, they are compelled to do a Christmas album. Please make them stop! Chris Botti has a winner here and is a nice, jazzy take on the standards that is best enjoyed with a nice glass of Shiraz.

Smooth Jazz.......2007-01-03

Botti phrases like an accomplished singer. The melodies are mellow and sound effortless. Relaxing, romantic and beautiful. I've listened to it over and over.

Average customer rating: Wonderful December Lovely but, sadly not the best. Veteran Christmas Rocker Moody Blues Christmas Album - December Loved it.

December The Moody Blues Manufacturer: Polydor / Umgd ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Pop | Styles | Music Soft Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music General | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music Psychedelic Rock | Classic Rock | Styles | Music Album-Oriented Rock (AOR) | Classic Rock | Styles | Music General | Classic Rock | Styles | Music General Christmas | Holiday | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music Opera & Vocal | Holiday | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music General Christmas | Holiday Music | Special Features | Music Similar Items: The Present Strange Times Journey into Amazing Caves: Soundtrack from the IMAX Theatre Film Blue Jays Sur La Mer ASIN: B0000DJYOD Release Date: 2003-10-28

Tracks:

1. Don't Need A Reindeer
2. December Snow
3. In The Quiet Of Christmas Morning (Bach 147)
4. On This Christmas Day
5. Happy Xmas (War Is Over)
6. A Winter's Tale
7. The Spirit Of Christmas
8. Yes I Believe
9. When A Child Is Born
10. White Christmas
11. In The Bleak Midwinter

Amazon.com

It was inevitable that The Moody Blues would produce a Christmas record. Why it took this long is the mystery. The group's classical music underpinnings have always been ripe for the Christmas canon and on December they add to it with their own contributions. "Don't Need A Reindeer" is a remarkably sweet little pop song that proves Justin Hayward can still write what sounds like a hit. A fair amount of orchestration shades the rest of the CD, as the band arranges and adds lyrics to a Bach piece (here called "In the Quiet of Christmas Morning") while also taking on "In the Bleak Midwinter," "When A Child Is Born," "White Christmas," and the John Lennon/Yoko Ono classic, "Happy Xmas (War Is Over)." In the same vein, though less cheerful, John Lodge pens a melancholy meditation on the horrors of the Mideast in 2003. While he's no John Lennon and December is uneven at best, for Moody Blues fans it will be like finding the lost chord.--Martin Keller

Customer Reviews:

Wonderful December.......2007-06-23

I recently got this CD and I must say I am very very happy with it. My dear Moody Blues have still got "it" - in spades. Their lyrics, music and voices are as wonderful as ever. Those fabulous Hayward & Lodge harmonies sound so very good and this CD is just chock full of their blended vocals. 'December' is such a joy to listen to; in fact I am listening to it right now, and it's 90 plus degrees outside on this June day!

I highly recommend this beautiful Moody Blues work. It's great to listen to at Christmas, or at any other time you want to hear these fabulous men make a joyful noise in your ears.

Lovely but, sadly not the best........2007-05-20

If you own all the other Moodies albums then this is a must. However, if your still building your collection, Strange Times blows this one out of the water. With Ray now gone, there's an empty space in the harmonies and writing

December is avery nice album, and grows on you fast if you don't "get it" at first. 4 stars for the original songs, and is a good snap-shot of the Moodies today.

Still awaiting their next...

Veteran Christmas Rocker.......2007-01-23

Recognizable Moody Blues no matter what the song. With touches of classical (Bach) and vintage (Iving Berlin) Christmas music but with the distinctive Hayward and Lodge touch, as well as their own compositions, this cd evokes pleasant memories of Christmas past while holding out the promise of pleasant listening next December as well.

Moody Blues Christmas Album - December.......2007-01-13

Buy it! This great CD has some old favorites but it's the new songs that really get you. Absolutely one of my most favorite holiday CDs ever.

Loved it........2007-01-04

I've had it for a couple of years and just love it. To me, it is soothing and relaxing.
It brings back memories of the old days and all their LP's from the 70's. There's just something about the sound of Moody Blues that you can't quite describe.
Great!

Average customer rating: Excellent CD Good for any age Absolutely Gorgeous! The Best Piano Solo Album Of All-Time. It's Christmas in July Catkin's reveiw

December George Winston Manufacturer: Windham Hill Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Jazz | Styles | Music General | New Age | Styles | Music Solo Instrumental | New Age | Styles | Music General | Adult Contemporary | Pop | Styles | Music Adult Alternative | Pop | Styles | Music General Christmas | Holiday | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music General | Jazz | Indie Music | Stores | Music General | New Age | Indie Music | Stores | Music Adult Contemporary | Pop | Indie Music | Stores | Music General Christmas | Holiday Music | Special Features | Music Similar Items: Winter into Spring Autumn Summer Forest All The Seasons Of George Winston: Piano Solos ASIN: B000000NFI Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

1. Thanksgiving
2. Jesus, Jesus, Rest Your Head
3. Joy
4. Prelude
5. Carol of the Bells
6. Night: Part One: Snow
7. Night: Part Two: Midnight
8. Night: Part Three: Minstrels
9. Variations On The Kanon By Pachelbel
10. The Holly And The Ivy
11. Some Children See Him
12. Peace

Amazon.com essential recording

December holds the distinction of single-handedly putting Windham Hill on the map and being the new age album most likely to find its way into music collections of all ilk. In spite of being relentlessly overplayed during the holidays, the solo piano recording has aged quite well. Winston shapes holiday war-horses and original compositions into a captivating contemporary statement. His spare, understated style captures the feel of the dark season, employing ample resonance to evoke a reflective spaciousness. The album's straightforward simplicity conveys both the celebration and quietude that characterize the best of the Yuletide spirit. --Richard Price

Customer Reviews:

Excellent CD.......2007-06-11

December by George Winston is about as close to perfect as you can get. Winston's phenomenal interpretations and originals form a masterpeice. Classified as a Holiday album, this is an album to enjoy all through the year. Although each selection here is very good, Variations On The Kanon By Pachelbel is simply a wonderful piece. I did have the pleasure of seeing George Winston in concert and I would receommend that any fan try to experience the music live with introductions by the pianist. I would also recommend December, Piano Solos: 20th Anniversary Edition which is an updated version of this excellent CD.

An outstanding 5 star CD.

Good for any age.......2007-04-09

There is something in this music which has been with ever since I listened to it first time back in 1987. Soundtrack of my life...

Absolutely Gorgeous! The Best Piano Solo Album Of All-Time........2005-12-30

I honestly don't feel it is even the slightest of exaggerations to label this recording as the Greatest Piano Solo Album Of All-Time. Even at nearly a quarter of a century old, it has only become better with age. I was first introduced to "December" at the mature age of 10, and I fell in love with it immediately. My mother would play it at Christmas, time and time again, and oddly enough I never tired of the haunting melodies. In the nearly twenty years since, I've found that while much of the music has a holiday theme, I enjoy listening to the tracks year-round. And in all that time I've found nothing that even comes close to matching the beauty, feeling or power of this exquisite creation. Winston pours such depth and feeling into each compilation that, if you're not careful, you find yourself begin to sway with the melody, much the same fashion as a teenager headbanging to a punk-rock band. But of course this is much more subtle and sophisticated. Truth be told, I credit Winston (and to some degree Chip Davis) with my desire to learn the piano. Fortunately my wife had the foresight this year to do what I could not bring myself to do, and presented me with piano lessons for Christmas. My one desire is to someday be good enough to eek out an intelligible semblance of this timeless album for family and friends at the holidays... but I won't hold my breath. Winston is a Master, and I don't believe I have either the time, nor the talent, to hold even the dimmest of candles to his "bright as noon-day" masterpiece. Enjoy!

It's Christmas in July.......2004-07-27

I am not really big on instrumental music. A lot of it reminds me of that cheeseball Yanni. My favorite instrumentalist is George Winston. I absolutely love his album "December". I have always loved this particular album for as long as I can remember. I remember borrowing my mom's cassette copy of this album several years ago and I still have it to this very day. It is truly one of my personal favorite albums in my entire (almost) 30 years of life. No matter what time of year it is, I can always throw it in and chill to the music. The music is so enchanting. I especially love "Jesus, Jesus, Rest Your Head". It is one of my personal favorite songs on the album. It truly moves me emotionally. George's piano playing is flawless. It flows like a running stream. I love the simplicity of the music which is just George's piano playing. I think having other instruments would have convoluted the music. I also adore the variations on Pachelbel's "Canon", my personal favorite baroque movement. George does a lovely job with his unique interpretation of the song. After eight hours at the office and listening to my goth/industrial/ebm/techno cds, it is nice to listen to more soothing music to relax too.

Catkin's reveiw.......2003-03-14

i think dat is a very good cd, especially for christmas and we put it on whenever we hav a family time.
Thank-you george!

Average customer rating: The best of the best.

Tchaikovsky: Symphony No. 4; The Seasons ("July"-"December") [SACD ] Manufacturer: Ondine ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Tchaikovsky | Tchaikovsky, Peter Ilyich | ( T ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Romantic | Symphonies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Similar Items: Saint-Saëns: Symphony No. 3; Poulenc: Organ Concerto; Barber: Toccata Festiva Tchaikovsky: Symphony No. 5; The Seasons ("January"-"June" [Hybrid SACD ] Mahler: Symphony No. 6; Piano Quartet [Hybrid SACD] Mahler: Symphony No. 6 [DVD Video] Albert Roussel: Symphonies Nos. 1 "Le Poème de la forêt" & 4 ASIN: B000O77SG8 Release Date: 2007-05-08

Tracks:

1. I. Andante Sostenuto-Moderato Con Anima-Moderato Assai, Quasi Andante-Allegro Vivo
2. II. Andantino In Modo Di Canzone
3. III. Scherzo. Pizzicato Ostinato-Allegro
4. IV. Finale. Allegro Con Fuoco
5. VII. July: Reaper's Song
6. VIII. August: Harvest
7. IX. September: Hunting
8. X. October: Autumn Song
9. XI. November: Troika
10. XII. December: Christmas-Tide

Amazon.com

The famously rich Philadelphia strings continue to sound terrific in Tchaikovsky, while the expert winds and brass shine on this disc. The opening fanfare, in which Eschenbach takes a more leisurely and less doom-laden approach than we hear from most Russian conductors, tells us his interpretation will emphasize structural balance over shorter-term thrills. Not that excitement is lacking, but this is a cooler, less overtly emotional approach that some may find a good complement to more-emotional versions in the catalogue. Eschenbach's reading also displays more-relaxed tempos than are usually heard, while bringing out myriad welcome details that might otherwise be lost. Still, despite comparable timings, Bernstein's New York Philharmonic performance has more rhythmic snap and excitement, while Mravinsky's classic Leningrad version remains in a class by itself. Eschenbach is at the piano for the final six months of The Seasons, reminding us that he was a world-class pianist before he turned to conducting. He displays keyboard command of Tchaikovsky's charming vignettes of the months, much as he did in his traversal of the first six of the set when coupled with his recording of the Tchaikovsky Fifth. --Dan Davis

Customer Reviews:

The best of the best........2007-07-03

I have all of the current SACD Multichannel hybrids of this Symphony and have been waiting for the right one. I have been disappointed in all of the current SACD's and have been waiting for Telarc to record a new SACD of this.
They have apparently been restricted with budget for new classical recordings
and we'll have to wait. This Ondine recording is very good and better than all of the current offerings. The technical recording aspects and the performance are very good. It is done with the Philadelphia Orchestra.
It will probably be the best availble until Telarc finally get it to the top of their recording list.

Average customer rating: One of my favorite cds December's Child forgetaboutit Good Vibrations If you like Mark Olson . . .

December's Child Mark Olson & Creekdippers Manufacturer: Dualtone Music Group ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music General | Rock | Alternative Styles | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Alt-Country & Americana | Country | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music CDs $7 - $10 | Alternative General | Alternative Rock | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Alternative General | Alternative Rock | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Holiday Music | Miscellaneous | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music 4-for-3 Alternative Rock | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 Country | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 Pop | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 Rock | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: My Own Jo Ellen The Original Harmony Ridge Creek Dippers Blue Earth Pacific Coast Rambler Weird Tales ASIN: B000069COB Release Date: 2002-07-23

Tracks:

1. How Can I Send Tonight (There To Tell You)
2. Still We Have A Friend In You
3. Alta's Song
4. Back To The Old Homeplace
5. December's Child
6. Nerstrand Woods
7. Cactus Wren
8. Climb These Steps (We Will)
9. How Can This Be
10. Say You'll Be Mine
11. One Eyed Black Dog Moses

Amazon.com

Since splitting from the Jayhawks to go creek dipping with wife Victoria Williams, Mark Olson has continued to celebrate homespun musical values and his creative independence from the recording industry. While there's nothing slick about December's Child, the melodic warmth of material such as "Still We Have a Friend in You" and "Back to the Old Homeplace" has an almost spiritual glow to it, while the album's arrangements employ trumpet, fiddle, piano, wah-wah guitar--and even doo-wop harmonies--to seemingly organic effect. Uptempo fare such as "How Can I Send Tonight (There to Tell You)" and "Climb These Steps (We Will)" recall the reedy-voiced yearning of Olson's Jayhawks days, while "Say You'll Be Mine" reunites him with former bandmate Gary Louris. The closing "One-Eyed Black Dog Moses" is a hoot, with a hypnotically funky groove that has Williams pushing her vocals to cartoonish extremes. --Don McLeese

Customer Reviews:

One of my favorite cds.......2003-12-18

I will keep this review short. I love this disc. In fact, I have enjoyed all of Mark Olson releases, back to the Jayhawks, but I find myself playing this album more than any other of his great career. Say you'll be Mine is my personal highlight of the many great songs here.

December's Child.......2003-08-06

Mark Olson and the Creekdippers
Decemberýs Child
Dualtone

Any engagement with the songs of Mark Olson is destined to be a heartfelt encounter with a deeply intimate world. From his time as the founder of The Jayhawks through the course five Creekdipper albums, his is a world to which he opens to us completely and unconditionally. Through his music, Mark Olson has treated us moments of joy and hardship, he has offered us the hand of friendship and bathed us in love and he has led us along the dusty trails of the remembrance and paved the road to the future with hope and opportunity. Fittingly, the dynamics of Olsonýs recordings have always reflected the tones of his compositions. Always rich in organics, a Creekdipper song has traditionally been imparted with the means it requires to serve its cause yet, an inherent discretion has dictated restraint. And while the Creekdipper recordings might have evolved from what was initially a collaboration between Olson, Victoria Williams and Michael Russell into a more cast orientated foray; the essence of their pursuit has not been lost. Mark Olson's latest Creekdipper sojourn, "Decemberýs Childý, not only encompasses the contributions of Williams and Russell, but those of the bandýs live contingent, Joshua Grange and Dave Wolfenberger. It also sees Olson reunited with Jayhawk Gary Louris for the first since his departure from the band in 1994.

While the latest Olson/Louris co-credit is certain to solicit a little extra attention, it is but one in a number of magical musical moments that constitute ýDecemberýs Childý. Even though the honeyed overtones of ýSay Youýll Be Mineý is certainly a welcomed addition to the album, the song does resonate a rather familiar 'Jayhawkish' feel. Not that this is a particularly bad thing, as the longing captured within its verses readily aligns itself with the overtones of the album's other recordings. It is simply that the most intriguing moments on this recording seem to be those where Olson explores more eclectic overtures. These can be found in songs such as ýBlack Dog Mossesý ý a sprawling gem that literally jumps up and bites you on the ass. And while it might not be anywhere near as forthright in temperament as the albumýs closing contribution, ýCactus Wrený presents yet another glorious encounter with Olson's musical versatility. But if the virtue of ýDecemberýs Childý were to be attributed to a single, then it would undoubtedly be Mark Olsonýs remarkable empathy. ýClimb These Steps (We Will)ý, ýDecemberýs Childý and the exquisite ýStill Have a Friend in Youý are all shining examples that highlight this claim. It is indeed a special world into which Mark Olson solicits our presence. And it is one for which ýDecemberýs Childý will long stand as an enticing open invitation.

forgetaboutit.......2003-07-04

I hate to be too harsh to Mark, after all he is a talented musician and songwriter, but this CD is just plain wrong. There are times listening to this record that I thought Yoko Ono's worst efforts were dubbed in. Save your money and hope that Mark Olson gets his act back together for future efforts.

Good Vibrations.......2002-08-17

My Own Jo Ellen, Olson's previous release, was a five-star CD in my book and it was on my best of the year list, as well. December's Child treads the same turf but with less successful results. Not to say this is a bad release. It's not, but lacks the some of the innocent charm of 'Jo Ellen.'

Alta's Song, December's Child, Nerstrand Woods, Climb These Steps, and How Can This Be? are wonderful songs--good feelings abound. I can appreciate the Carter family-styled Cactus Wren, but to be honest I usually skip this track. The inclusion of One Eyed Black Dog Moses--which the band usually closes their live performances with--seems unnecessary and plods along compared to the other songs. Say You'll Be Mine--the ballyhooed collaboration with Gary Louris--is a nice respite from the lo-fi proceedings.

With each release I grow to appreciate Olson's skill as a songwriter. I can't imagine any other performer penning a song as personal and affirming as How Can This Be. More good news--fiddler Mike Russell has a big role here. Let's hope he tours with the 'Dippers this time around.

Victoria Williams, whose spirit and nature jumped out of My Own Jo Ellen on practically every groove even though her involvement was minimal, is not nearly as visible here. This is a Mark Olson CD, not an Olson/Williams CD.

If you like Mark Olson . . ........2002-08-01

. . . then you will indubitably like this record. If you like Victoria Williams/Mabel Allbright, then you will be somewhat disappointed with the abridgment of her contributions as a backing vocalist and songwriter. Mark Olson's lyrics are smarter and more visionary then ever, and he pulls the familiar (but perpetually irresistible) hooks out of his bag of tricks. As a result, great songs abound, though the quirky production and regrettable experiments with vocal harmonies makes me wish (1) that most of those songs had been recorded on the relatively more lush and electrified 'My Own Jo Ellen' (which, if you like Mark and Victoria, you should own), or (2) that Olson had scaled back the production and revisited the truly lo-fi sound of the Original Harmony Ridge Creekdipper's earlier efforts. (I should addd that although still around for this recording session, Mike Russell's apparently permanent departure from the Creekdippers is a grave loss.) Gary Louris's one-track cameo and songwriting credit adds nothing other than its promotional value. And the finale, 'One Eyed Black Dog Moses', is just silly. But 9 of 11 ain't bad, especially when 3 ('How Can I Send Tonight', 'Alta's Song', and 'How Can This Be') are sublime.

Average customer rating: Appreciated Christmas music! Too many duplicates! BEKOZ IT'S CHRISTMAS Fantastic, very original Christmas Album!! I expected more from the musician

December Makes Me Feel This Way Dave Koz Manufacturer: Capitol ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Jazz | Styles | Music Jazz Fusion | Jazz | Styles | Music Smooth Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music General | Adult Contemporary | Pop | Styles | Music General | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music General Christmas | Holiday | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music Opera & Vocal | Holiday | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music Pop Vocal | Holiday | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music General Christmas | Holiday Music | Special Features | Music Pop Vocal | Holiday Music | Special Features | Music Similar Items: Smooth Jazz Christmas Off the Beaten Path Lucky Man Saxophonic The Dance ASIN: B000002UM3 Release Date: 1997-09-23

Tracks:

1. Sleighride
2. Have Yourself A Merry Little Chistmas
3. Winter Wonderland
4. White Christmas
5. Santa Claus Is Coming Town
6. The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting On An Open Fire)
7. I'll Be Home For Christmas
8. Little Drummer Boy
9. December Makes Me Feel This Way
10. Silverbells
11. Eight Candles (A Song For Hanukkah)
12. O Tannenbaum (Oh Christmas Tree)
13. Auld Lang Syne

Customer Reviews:

Appreciated Christmas music!.......2007-01-03

I have listened to this CD over and over... it's beautiful!
My first Dave Koz CD, and now most certainly not my last! Love it~

Too many duplicates!.......2003-12-04

Last year I purchased Dave's...A Smooth Jazz Christmas...and was thrilled with it. So thrilled in fact that I thought I'd go ahead and buy this one. I looked at the ratings here at Amazon.com and thought I had nothing to lose. Now don't get me wrong...this is not a bad CD...though it isn't all that great either. My major complaint is that 9 of the 13 songs on it are also on 'A Smooth Jazz Christmas'. In my opinion...that is ridiculous! What was Dave thinking? Anyway...if you are thinking of buying one of Dave's Christmas CDs....forget this one...and buy 'A smooth Jazz Christmas' instead. It surpasses this one in all categories.

BEKOZ IT'S CHRISTMAS.......2003-11-25

Dave Koz and Kenny G can be indistinguishable at times. They seem to employ the same types of arrangements for holiday classics, and they're the kind of music you put in your CD player, lay by the fireplace and sip hot chocolate. They are expert musicians; they don't really offer us anything innovative or exceptional; just good, pleasant music to get in the mood for Christmas.
The highlight on this may be "December Makes Me Feel This Way," the heartfelt duet by Koz and country singer Victoria Shaw. It's a nice new song; there hasn't been a whole lot of good new stuff in years.
Pleasant and enjoyable; good mood music.

Fantastic, very original Christmas Album!!.......2003-11-01

I just got a copy of this Album and think it is great! If you don't start bouncing and dancing with this one,you've gotta be catatonic!!
Very original and Dave's sax sounds great with the guitar and other acoustic stringed instruments.
I wonder if Reginald was listening to the same album I heard??

I expected more from the musician.......2002-11-25

Dave's horn has never sounded better; it's just the arrangements that are so mundane. None of the selections "take hold", asking for repeat listening.

Each is more like elevator music. From an artist of the caliber of Koz, that has to be a letdown.

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