Search - Frank Sinatra :: Frank Sinatra Christmas Collection

Robert S. (Bob73) from HOUSTON, TX
Reviewed on 2/28/2007...

Like new CD with jewelcase (slightly cracked but repaired) and
outer paper slipcase.

0 of 2 member(s) found this review helpful.

"Christmas Collection for the Entire Family ~ Frank Sinatra"

J. Lovins | Missouri-USA | 10/26/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Reprise and the Sinatra Family bring together a rare find "The Christmas Collection", featuring the head of the clan Mr. Frank Sinatra in fine voice for this special time of the year ~ classic arrangements from Harry Betts, Don Costa, Jack Holloran, Nelson Riddle and Dick Reynolds...with Fred Waring & His Pennsylvanians, Jimmy Joyce Singers & Orchestra and Nelson Riddle & His Orchestra...joining in the seasonal splendor are his children Tina, Nancy and Frank Jr., making this Christmas all the more special.



Performances cover several decades of Frank's career, including a few with Bing Crosby like "WE WISH YOU THE MERRIEST" and "GO TELL IT ON THE MOUNTAIN" [1964], featuring Fred Waring & His Pennsylvanians from "The Twelve Songs Of Christmas" ~ "THE CHRISTMAS SONG" and "WHITE CHRISTMAS" [1957], previously unissued from "Happy Holidays With Bing & Frank" an ABC segment from The Frank Sinatra Show with Nelson Riddle & His Orchestra, a nostalgic outing for the two crooners and Riddle...you can tell they are having a blast.



All of the Sinatra's join in with "I WOULDN'T TRADE CHRISTMAS", "THE TWELVE DAYS OF CHRISTMAS" and "THE BELLS OF CHRISTMAS (Greensleeves)" [1968], featuring Tina, Nancy, Frank Jr. and Dad(Frank), with Nelson Riddle arrangements from the album "The Sinatra Family Wish You A Merry Christmas", sounds like a tree trimming gathering as the Jimmy Joyce Singers & Orchestra put the final touches on the decorations...Frank seems the happiest with his children around him.



The closing bonus track of "SILENT NIGHT", the vocal recorded on August 27, 1991...orchestral was arranged and added by Johnny Mandel featuring Bill T. Miller [celeste], Al Viola [guitar], Ron Anthony [guitar], Chuck Berghofer [bass], Julie Berghofer [harp], Larry Bunker [percussion], Jim Hughart [bass], recorded and conducted by his son Frank Jr. on March 25, 2004 ~ this tender and emotional track will bring a tear to your eye...you'll remember how much we miss "Ole Blue Eyes"...they'll never be another like 'em, but we have him in our hearts...just the way it should be!



Total Time: 53:46 on 18 Tracks ~ Reprise 76542 ~ (10/26/2004)"

Not Nearly as Good as "Christmas Songs by Sinatra"

J. Katz | Virginia | 12/20/2006

(3 out of 5 stars)

"Bought this CD on the basis of the good reviews here. I like it, but overall, I don't think it touches the quality Frank gives us on "Christmas Songs by Sinatra."



This version relies on lots and lots of choral support -- which isn't my preferred way to hear Sinatra.



"Christmas Songs by Sinatra" contains more straight Sinatra. Also, it has more traditional songs, whereas this CD has lots of songs that I don't think Frank sings as well as the old standards.



Don't get me wrong, I think this CD is fine. But I'd recommend "A Jolly Christmas from Frank Sinatra" and "Christmas Songs by Sinatra" IF you prefer Sinatra singing classic Christmas songs largely on his own."