Search - Etta James :: 12 Song of Christmas

Michelle T. from MCHENRY, IL
Reviewed on 2/14/2010...

Always awesome!

Diana H. (Dianaleigh) from KENT, WA
Reviewed on 12/14/2009...

I would say this CD is good background Christmas music for a party or gathering. It does not live up to what we all know Etta is capable of. It is not bad; just not great. Perfect background music.

1 of 1 member(s) found this review helpful.

Bonnie S. (Bonnie) from SUMMIT POINT, WV
Reviewed on 11/16/2008...

Oh, Lord! I cannot express my disappointment in this album. If not for her wonderful rendition of Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas, and the pretty darn good Chestnuts by the Open Fire, I would have given this a negative rating. I hate to be so insulting, but she sounds like a lounge lizardette on this album.

1 of 1 member(s) found this review helpful.

One of My Favorite Christmas Discs

C. Gorski | Taipei, Taiwan | 12/03/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I purchased this album several years ago, but not being much of a "reviewer" it has taken me a bit to write this down.

Simply said, this album is a pleasure to hear come the holiday season. Always tasteful, the arrangements never come off as "Kenny-G" jazz. This is an album aimed for the traditional jazz fan and probably should be passed over by anyone looking for a "smooth jazz" angle.

Indeed, the phrasings are classic Etta (although the other reviewers are not incorrect for noting that in her in her 60's Etta is losing her range, but still a wonderful, full-bodied singer.)

If I was to single a track out, it would be "The Little Drummer Boy." It always seemed odd that the drummers quintessential tune was never given its proper due. While still lacking an all out solo, Etta sings around the drums so as to give it room to explore. The song closes with a wonderful solo which gives way to the finale of two Christmas classics.

This album will never be considered a Jazz Xmas classic in the way that Vince Guaraldi's soundtrack to the Penuts Christmas cartoon. Yet, its essential to note that Etta's goal wasn't to rewrite the rules of Christmas albums. The goal was to take a set of Christmas standards and to give them that classic jazz feel. In this way, Etta passes with without question.

An excellent Christmas gift for that Jazz fan in your family. What an album. Highly recommended."

Makes For A Cool Yule

Graphic Reader | Mooresville, NC | 01/26/2007

(3 out of 5 stars)

"No real surprises on the song choices but a nice addition to my Christmas CDs."