Search - Jo Dee Messina :: A Joyful Noise

Not typical Jo Dee but very nice

Peter Durward Harris | Leicester England | 08/31/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"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."

A voice made for caroling...

K. Stuckey | Port Huron, MI USA | 11/17/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"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!"

New Twist on Old Classics

J. Bouvier | Northeast | 11/25/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"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."