Bah Humbag!, 30 Oct 2008
Absolutely awful, this is a shoddy complilation of Xmas songs. The sound quality is terrible and the album seems to be a montage of old radio broadcasts. At times it seems that Sinatra is singing with a bucket on his head. If you want real nostalga then this album may appeal but I would advise you to stay well clear.

For a Classic Christmas, 30 Nov 2007
I would disregard the first review of this CD and skip straight to the second. This CD is wonderful. For those that want a more traditional, classic Christmas this is the one to get. Sit by a roaring fireside under the twinkling lights of the christmas tree, mulled wine in one hand, mince pie in the other and this music playing in the background. Truly magical!

My favourites on the 2 CD's (bargain!) are Dean Martin's "It's Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas", Louis Armstrong's "Zat you Santa Claus" and Frank Sinatra's "Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas".

The quality of the music is as good as you can get when the recordings are so old. It's not crackly and inaudible however, just full of charm.

You really can't go wrong purchasing this! Merry Christmas!

Superb- A Heartwarming Soundtrack to Your Xmas, 25 Nov 2007
I really dont understand the last reviewers negative comments. True, these recordings arent modern quality ... GOOOOOOD !. These were recorded well over 50 years ago, what do you expect ?. For me, this adds to the experience.
These recordings are good quality, not like some of those rediculous Rat Pack
sets you get, which are live & terrible quality. Most are studio recordings & some are songs lifted from live recordings of festive radio shows (still recorded in a studio). I love this 3 cd set, just pop it on, on Christmas morning ... Perfect.



Don't Buy This, 07 Dec 2006
Don't buy this CD. The sound quality is absolutely appalling -- it's as if someone is holding a microphone to a cheap radio with bad reception. Dreadful, absolutely waste of money even though it is cheap. (I'd give it ``minus'' stars if I could.)

Bah Humbag!, 30 Oct 2008
Absolutely awful, this is a shoddy complilation of Xmas songs. The sound quality is terrible and the album seems to be a montage of old radio broadcasts. At times it seems that Sinatra is singing with a bucket on his head. If you want real nostalga then this album may appeal but I would advise you to stay well clear.

For a Classic Christmas, 30 Nov 2007
I would disregard the first review of this CD and skip straight to the second. This CD is wonderful. For those that want a more traditional, classic Christmas this is the one to get. Sit by a roaring fireside under the twinkling lights of the christmas tree, mulled wine in one hand, mince pie in the other and this music playing in the background. Truly magical!

My favourites on the 2 CD's (bargain!) are Dean Martin's "It's Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas", Louis Armstrong's "Zat you Santa Claus" and Frank Sinatra's "Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas".

The quality of the music is as good as you can get when the recordings are so old. It's not crackly and inaudible however, just full of charm.

You really can't go wrong purchasing this! Merry Christmas!

Superb- A Heartwarming Soundtrack to Your Xmas, 25 Nov 2007
I really dont understand the last reviewers negative comments. True, these recordings arent modern quality ... GOOOOOOD !. These were recorded well over 50 years ago, what do you expect ?. For me, this adds to the experience.
These recordings are good quality, not like some of those rediculous Rat Pack
sets you get, which are live & terrible quality. Most are studio recordings & some are songs lifted from live recordings of festive radio shows (still recorded in a studio). I love this 3 cd set, just pop it on, on Christmas morning ... Perfect.



Don't Buy This, 07 Dec 2006
Don't buy this CD. The sound quality is absolutely appalling -- it's as if someone is holding a microphone to a cheap radio with bad reception. Dreadful, absolutely waste of money even though it is cheap. (I'd give it ``minus'' stars if I could.)

This Ones Top Of The Christmas Tree!!!, 10 Dec 2007
Here it is! Many of the most popular christmas songs from yesteryear. Christmas would'nt be christmas without Andy Williams. With his jazzed up singing style Andy throws life into the songs on this cd & makes it a real joy to listen to!
If you want a really good traditional christmas CD then this is it!!
10/10

MEMORIES OF MY FIRST MARRIED CHRISTMAS, 22 Nov 2007
The first Christmas after my marriage, I bought this album on cassette, which was eventually damaged. Every Christmas I remember with fond nostalgia it being a part of my early married life at the end of every year. This year I have found, with the help of Amazon Reviews, the C.D. which is obviously the same album I bought in 1977. Thank You Everyone!

A True Classic, 06 Nov 2007
My parents also had this in the 70's, albeit with a different sleeve. I can assure you it is exactly the same record, with all the songs sounding the same and in the same order! Had to buy this to indoctrinate my own children in to 'the Andy Williams'. With his effortless, velvety voice, you can't but help think of sleigh rides and twee Christmassy images. A must have for any record collection

aaahhh the sweet sound of nostalgia, 06 Dec 2006
yep, me too, my mum & dad also had the vinyl version of this and i palyed it and played it, the album SCREAMS kitsch christmas, a definate must for easy listening fans and people who want to hearup tempo versions of christmas classics in an andy williams type of way

This is NOT the 1963 Christmas album, 15 Nov 2004
Despite what the previous post claims, this is not the 1963 album. Rather this is a compilation featuring a selection of tracks from all three seasonal albums Andy recorded for Columbia in 1963, 1965 and 1974.

That being said it is an excellent Christmas CD. The original 1963 and 1965 albums have just been reissued Stateside, but the superb 1974 "Christmas Present" (one of the truly great Christmas albums) remains out of print on CD, so this compilation is the only way you will get tracks from this album in digital format, until hopefully Sony/Columbia re-issue it. Perhaps in time for Christmas 2005?

Bah Humbag!, 30 Oct 2008
Absolutely awful, this is a shoddy complilation of Xmas songs. The sound quality is terrible and the album seems to be a montage of old radio broadcasts. At times it seems that Sinatra is singing with a bucket on his head. If you want real nostalga then this album may appeal but I would advise you to stay well clear.

For a Classic Christmas, 30 Nov 2007
I would disregard the first review of this CD and skip straight to the second. This CD is wonderful. For those that want a more traditional, classic Christmas this is the one to get. Sit by a roaring fireside under the twinkling lights of the christmas tree, mulled wine in one hand, mince pie in the other and this music playing in the background. Truly magical!

My favourites on the 2 CD's (bargain!) are Dean Martin's "It's Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas", Louis Armstrong's "Zat you Santa Claus" and Frank Sinatra's "Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas".

The quality of the music is as good as you can get when the recordings are so old. It's not crackly and inaudible however, just full of charm.

You really can't go wrong purchasing this! Merry Christmas!

Superb- A Heartwarming Soundtrack to Your Xmas, 25 Nov 2007
I really dont understand the last reviewers negative comments. True, these recordings arent modern quality ... GOOOOOOD !. These were recorded well over 50 years ago, what do you expect ?. For me, this adds to the experience.
These recordings are good quality, not like some of those rediculous Rat Pack
sets you get, which are live & terrible quality. Most are studio recordings & some are songs lifted from live recordings of festive radio shows (still recorded in a studio). I love this 3 cd set, just pop it on, on Christmas morning ... Perfect.



Don't Buy This, 07 Dec 2006
Don't buy this CD. The sound quality is absolutely appalling -- it's as if someone is holding a microphone to a cheap radio with bad reception. Dreadful, absolutely waste of money even though it is cheap. (I'd give it ``minus'' stars if I could.)

This Ones Top Of The Christmas Tree!!!, 10 Dec 2007
Here it is! Many of the most popular christmas songs from yesteryear. Christmas would'nt be christmas without Andy Williams. With his jazzed up singing style Andy throws life into the songs on this cd & makes it a real joy to listen to!
If you want a really good traditional christmas CD then this is it!!
10/10

MEMORIES OF MY FIRST MARRIED CHRISTMAS, 22 Nov 2007
The first Christmas after my marriage, I bought this album on cassette, which was eventually damaged. Every Christmas I remember with fond nostalgia it being a part of my early married life at the end of every year. This year I have found, with the help of Amazon Reviews, the C.D. which is obviously the same album I bought in 1977. Thank You Everyone!

A True Classic, 06 Nov 2007
My parents also had this in the 70's, albeit with a different sleeve. I can assure you it is exactly the same record, with all the songs sounding the same and in the same order! Had to buy this to indoctrinate my own children in to 'the Andy Williams'. With his effortless, velvety voice, you can't but help think of sleigh rides and twee Christmassy images. A must have for any record collection

aaahhh the sweet sound of nostalgia, 06 Dec 2006
yep, me too, my mum & dad also had the vinyl version of this and i palyed it and played it, the album SCREAMS kitsch christmas, a definate must for easy listening fans and people who want to hearup tempo versions of christmas classics in an andy williams type of way

This is NOT the 1963 Christmas album, 15 Nov 2004
Despite what the previous post claims, this is not the 1963 album. Rather this is a compilation featuring a selection of tracks from all three seasonal albums Andy recorded for Columbia in 1963, 1965 and 1974.

That being said it is an excellent Christmas CD. The original 1963 and 1965 albums have just been reissued Stateside, but the superb 1974 "Christmas Present" (one of the truly great Christmas albums) remains out of print on CD, so this compilation is the only way you will get tracks from this album in digital format, until hopefully Sony/Columbia re-issue it. Perhaps in time for Christmas 2005?

Fun packed Christmas, 14 Nov 2008
This is just what Christmas should be about, a good ol sing along.
Great Songs and performances.
Would recomend to anyone.

ignore the squares, 10 Nov 2008
Ignore the squares who dont like this album. Its great and after listening to Deano, "lets have some eggnog!" great fun and some lovely tracks, christmas ring a ding dong!

Dont bother, 18 Dec 2007
I was disapointed by the quality of the recording - I (probably unrealistically) expected CD quality but found it to be worse that cassette. The songs are not the best but I could have lived with that if the sound had been acceptable. One for the bin in my opinion.

Is that smell chestnuts roasting on an open fire or cheese?, 29 Nov 2007
Cheesier than a slice of Stilton covered in melted Brie. I bought this a couple of years ago in an attempt to be ironic, now I wouldn't allow it anywhere near a CD player, it hasn't got better with age. If you want a trip down memory lane buy Phil Spectors Christmas album!

Oh My this is so good, 26 Nov 2007
Great collection from true icons that show these modern pop stars how it is done

Just as irony is being pronounced dead, along comes the boozy holiday compilation Christmas with the Rat Pack, suggesting that rumours of its demise may be premature. Given the culture's simmering lounge mania, this collection (with its cheesy homage/rip-off Oceans 11 art direction) may be belated--but hey, punctuality was never these swingin' cats' bag, Jack.

The novelty of having three of the 20th century's most notorious sinners belt, whoop and sing the praises of sleigh bells, roasting chestnuts and the virgin birth would be enough to recommend this dizzy 21-track delight, but there's actually some rewarding pop archaeology here as well.

Two of the best tracks--Sammy Davis's ring-a-ding-ding romp through "Jingle Bells" and Dino's dreamy "Peace on Earth/Silent Night"--hail from a vintage, ultra-rare Reprise sampler. Sammy's typically over-the-top "Christmastime All Over the World" and Nat Cole tribute, "The Christmas Song" also make their CD debut.

Dino's holiday TV specials yield more unreleased rarities: Sinatra-Martin duets of the loopy "Marshmallow World" and a touchingly tipsy take on "Auld Lang Syne" that suggests the boys have shared more than one cup of kindness. --Jerry McCulley

Bah Humbag!, 30 Oct 2008
Absolutely awful, this is a shoddy complilation of Xmas songs. The sound quality is terrible and the album seems to be a montage of old radio broadcasts. At times it seems that Sinatra is singing with a bucket on his head. If you want real nostalga then this album may appeal but I would advise you to stay well clear.

For a Classic Christmas, 30 Nov 2007
I would disregard the first review of this CD and skip straight to the second. This CD is wonderful. For those that want a more traditional, classic Christmas this is the one to get. Sit by a roaring fireside under the twinkling lights of the christmas tree, mulled wine in one hand, mince pie in the other and this music playing in the background. Truly magical!

My favourites on the 2 CD's (bargain!) are Dean Martin's "It's Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas", Louis Armstrong's "Zat you Santa Claus" and Frank Sinatra's "Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas".

The quality of the music is as good as you can get when the recordings are so old. It's not crackly and inaudible however, just full of charm.

You really can't go wrong purchasing this! Merry Christmas!

Superb- A Heartwarming Soundtrack to Your Xmas, 25 Nov 2007
I really dont understand the last reviewers negative comments. True, these recordings arent modern quality ... GOOOOOOD !. These were recorded well over 50 years ago, what do you expect ?. For me, this adds to the experience.
These recordings are good quality, not like some of those rediculous Rat Pack
sets you get, which are live & terrible quality. Most are studio recordings & some are songs lifted from live recordings of festive radio shows (still recorded in a studio). I love this 3 cd set, just pop it on, on Christmas morning ... Perfect.



Don't Buy This, 07 Dec 2006
Don't buy this CD. The sound quality is absolutely appalling -- it's as if someone is holding a microphone to a cheap radio with bad reception. Dreadful, absolutely waste of money even though it is cheap. (I'd give it ``minus'' stars if I could.)

This Ones Top Of The Christmas Tree!!!, 10 Dec 2007
Here it is! Many of the most popular christmas songs from yesteryear. Christmas would'nt be christmas without Andy Williams. With his jazzed up singing style Andy throws life into the songs on this cd & makes it a real joy to listen to!
If you want a really good traditional christmas CD then this is it!!
10/10

MEMORIES OF MY FIRST MARRIED CHRISTMAS, 22 Nov 2007
The first Christmas after my marriage, I bought this album on cassette, which was eventually damaged. Every Christmas I remember with fond nostalgia it being a part of my early married life at the end of every year. This year I have found, with the help of Amazon Reviews, the C.D. which is obviously the same album I bought in 1977. Thank You Everyone!

A True Classic, 06 Nov 2007
My parents also had this in the 70's, albeit with a different sleeve. I can assure you it is exactly the same record, with all the songs sounding the same and in the same order! Had to buy this to indoctrinate my own children in to 'the Andy Williams'. With his effortless, velvety voice, you can't but help think of sleigh rides and twee Christmassy images. A must have for any record collection

aaahhh the sweet sound of nostalgia, 06 Dec 2006
yep, me too, my mum & dad also had the vinyl version of this and i palyed it and played it, the album SCREAMS kitsch christmas, a definate must for easy listening fans and people who want to hearup tempo versions of christmas classics in an andy williams type of way

This is NOT the 1963 Christmas album, 15 Nov 2004
Despite what the previous post claims, this is not the 1963 album. Rather this is a compilation featuring a selection of tracks from all three seasonal albums Andy recorded for Columbia in 1963, 1965 and 1974.

That being said it is an excellent Christmas CD. The original 1963 and 1965 albums have just been reissued Stateside, but the superb 1974 "Christmas Present" (one of the truly great Christmas albums) remains out of print on CD, so this compilation is the only way you will get tracks from this album in digital format, until hopefully Sony/Columbia re-issue it. Perhaps in time for Christmas 2005?

Fun packed Christmas, 14 Nov 2008
This is just what Christmas should be about, a good ol sing along.
Great Songs and performances.
Would recomend to anyone.

ignore the squares, 10 Nov 2008
Ignore the squares who dont like this album. Its great and after listening to Deano, "lets have some eggnog!" great fun and some lovely tracks, christmas ring a ding dong!

Dont bother, 18 Dec 2007
I was disapointed by the quality of the recording - I (probably unrealistically) expected CD quality but found it to be worse that cassette. The songs are not the best but I could have lived with that if the sound had been acceptable. One for the bin in my opinion.

Is that smell chestnuts roasting on an open fire or cheese?, 29 Nov 2007
Cheesier than a slice of Stilton covered in melted Brie. I bought this a couple of years ago in an attempt to be ironic, now I wouldn't allow it anywhere near a CD player, it hasn't got better with age. If you want a trip down memory lane buy Phil Spectors Christmas album!

Oh My this is so good, 26 Nov 2007
Great collection from true icons that show these modern pop stars how it is done

Smooth Christmas, 24 Oct 2008
In a vote for the best Christmas album, it's a toss up for me between this and Phil Spector's.

The voices of Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin are perfect for Christmas songs. They sound all warm and homely, and you can almost imagine them standing in front of a log fire singing these.

Plus, the banter between Frank, Dean and Sammy is pretty entertaining and makes the songs stand out from the usual Christmas standards.

If you get it, you'll bring it out every year and it will put a smile on your face!

Superb Christmas Album, 08 Jan 2006
If you like these 3 superb performers and if you like Christmas music, you will absolutely love this album. I have been listening to this CD in my car for the last two months and I love it. Final verdict: You will not regret buying this great CD. Enjoy.

Frank is great, Dean is pretty good, but we need more Sammy, 04 Dec 2004
Do not worry that you are going to be subjected to the sound of Peter Lawford singing Christmas songs, because "Christmas with the Rat Pack" leaves the singing to Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Sammy Davis, Jr. The Chairman of the Board and Dino get eight tracks each, with Sammy only getting three, and then the trio sing the last two songs together and live. As you would expect, this is a Christmas album for those who are looking for something a bit stronger than eggnog when they are trimming the tree.

Martin gets to cover the hip seasonal songs, like "I've Got My Love to Keep Me Warm," "Baby It's Cold Outside," and "Let it Snow! Let it Snow! Let it Snow!" while Frank does more of the religious songs, such as "The First Noel" and "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing." All Sammy gets to sing is "Christmas Time All Over the World," "The Christmas Song," and "Jingle Bells." Martin gets to cover "Silver Bells," "White Christmas," and "Winter Wonderland," so he makes a strong showing on this album. Sinatra, as you would expect, shines most on songs that show his finely honed vocalization skills, such as "The Christmas Waltz," "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas," and "I'll Be Home for Christmas."

Obviously it would be nice if Sammy was thrown a few more crumbs, and you can argue the album would hang together better if they cut the couple of songs Martin sings that really sound like he is holding a martini in one hand. Fans will probably not care, but there are a few tracks that seem to run a bit more against the grain than some of the others, even though Martin milks them for all they are worth. The cover is an "Ocean's 11" inspired image that had the "11" with a couple of candy stripes and then a shot of the three kings of holiday singing.

auld lang syne, 09 Dec 2003
christmas AS IT SHOULD BE SUNG. YOUNG OR OLD IT MUST APPEAL TO EVERYONE ALL THE CLASSICS THAT SEEM TO HAVE BEEN AROUND AS LONG AS CHRISTMAS ITS SELF BUT STILL FEEL FRESH AND WARMING. SHERRY OR ALCOPOP THIS IS TOP OF THE CROP. GO ON, HAVE ANOTHER MINCE PIE

Neil Diamond has always fancied himself a man of many styles, which probably helps explain why he tries to flaunt each and every one of them on this diverse, sometimes dizzying Christmas disc. He plays it relatively straight on "Silent Night" and "The Christmas Song," but really lets loose on a version of "White Christmas" that recalls the doo-wop of his teen years in the 1950s. Diamond even expands his palette to include a choir-accompanied take on John Lennon's pacifist classic "Happy Christmas (War is Over)." It's the kind of intermingling that makes his fans go wild, but casual admirers should watch out for those stylistic U-turns. --David Sprague

Bah Humbag!, 30 Oct 2008
Absolutely awful, this is a shoddy complilation of Xmas songs. The sound quality is terrible and the album seems to be a montage of old radio broadcasts. At times it seems that Sinatra is singing with a bucket on his head. If you want real nostalga then this album may appeal but I would advise you to stay well clear.

For a Classic Christmas, 30 Nov 2007
I would disregard the first review of this CD and skip straight to the second. This CD is wonderful. For those that want a more traditional, classic Christmas this is the one to get. Sit by a roaring fireside under the twinkling lights of the christmas tree, mulled wine in one hand, mince pie in the other and this music playing in the background. Truly magical!

My favourites on the 2 CD's (bargain!) are Dean Martin's "It's Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas", Louis Armstrong's "Zat you Santa Claus" and Frank Sinatra's "Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas".

The quality of the music is as good as you can get when the recordings are so old. It's not crackly and inaudible however, just full of charm.

You really can't go wrong purchasing this! Merry Christmas!

Superb- A Heartwarming Soundtrack to Your Xmas, 25 Nov 2007
I really dont understand the last reviewers negative comments. True, these recordings arent modern quality ... GOOOOOOD !. These were recorded well over 50 years ago, what do you expect ?. For me, this adds to the experience.
These recordings are good quality, not like some of those rediculous Rat Pack
sets you get, which are live & terrible quality. Most are studio recordings & some are songs lifted from live recordings of festive radio shows (still recorded in a studio). I love this 3 cd set, just pop it on, on Christmas morning ... Perfect.



Don't Buy This, 07 Dec 2006
Don't buy this CD. The sound quality is absolutely appalling -- it's as if someone is holding a microphone to a cheap radio with bad reception. Dreadful, absolutely waste of money even though it is cheap. (I'd give it ``minus'' stars if I could.)

This Ones Top Of The Christmas Tree!!!, 10 Dec 2007
Here it is! Many of the most popular christmas songs from yesteryear. Christmas would'nt be christmas without Andy Williams. With his jazzed up singing style Andy throws life into the songs on this cd & makes it a real joy to listen to!
If you want a really good traditional christmas CD then this is it!!
10/10

MEMORIES OF MY FIRST MARRIED CHRISTMAS, 22 Nov 2007
The first Christmas after my marriage, I bought this album on cassette, which was eventually damaged. Every Christmas I remember with fond nostalgia it being a part of my early married life at the end of every year. This year I have found, with the help of Amazon Reviews, the C.D. which is obviously the same album I bought in 1977. Thank You Everyone!

A True Classic, 06 Nov 2007
My parents also had this in the 70's, albeit with a different sleeve. I can assure you it is exactly the same record, with all the songs sounding the same and in the same order! Had to buy this to indoctrinate my own children in to 'the Andy Williams'. With his effortless, velvety voice, you can't but help think of sleigh rides and twee Christmassy images. A must have for any record collection

aaahhh the sweet sound of nostalgia, 06 Dec 2006
yep, me too, my mum & dad also had the vinyl version of this and i palyed it and played it, the album SCREAMS kitsch christmas, a definate must for easy listening fans and people who want to hearup tempo versions of christmas classics in an andy williams type of way

This is NOT the 1963 Christmas album, 15 Nov 2004
Despite what the previous post claims, this is not the 1963 album. Rather this is a compilation featuring a selection of tracks from all three seasonal albums Andy recorded for Columbia in 1963, 1965 and 1974.

That being said it is an excellent Christmas CD. The original 1963 and 1965 albums have just been reissued Stateside, but the superb 1974 "Christmas Present" (one of the truly great Christmas albums) remains out of print on CD, so this compilation is the only way you will get tracks from this album in digital format, until hopefully Sony/Columbia re-issue it. Perhaps in time for Christmas 2005?

Fun packed Christmas, 14 Nov 2008
This is just what Christmas should be about, a good ol sing along.
Great Songs and performances.
Would recomend to anyone.

ignore the squares, 10 Nov 2008
Ignore the squares who dont like this album. Its great and after listening to Deano, "lets have some eggnog!" great fun and some lovely tracks, christmas ring a ding dong!

Dont bother, 18 Dec 2007
I was disapointed by the quality of the recording - I (probably unrealistically) expected CD quality but found it to be worse that cassette. The songs are not the best but I could have lived with that if the sound had been acceptable. One for the bin in my opinion.

Is that smell chestnuts roasting on an open fire or cheese?, 29 Nov 2007
Cheesier than a slice of Stilton covered in melted Brie. I bought this a couple of years ago in an attempt to be ironic, now I wouldn't allow it anywhere near a CD player, it hasn't got better with age. If you want a trip down memory lane buy Phil Spectors Christmas album!

Oh My this is so good, 26 Nov 2007
Great collection from true icons that show these modern pop stars how it is done

Smooth Christmas, 24 Oct 2008
In a vote for the best Christmas album, it's a toss up for me between this and Phil Spector's.

The voices of Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin are perfect for Christmas songs. They sound all warm and homely, and you can almost imagine them standing in front of a log fire singing these.

Plus, the banter between Frank, Dean and Sammy is pretty entertaining and makes the songs stand out from the usual Christmas standards.

If you get it, you'll bring it out every year and it will put a smile on your face!

Superb Christmas Album, 08 Jan 2006
If you like these 3 superb performers and if you like Christmas music, you will absolutely love this album. I have been listening to this CD in my car for the last two months and I love it. Final verdict: You will not regret buying this great CD. Enjoy.

Frank is great, Dean is pretty good, but we need more Sammy, 04 Dec 2004
Do not worry that you are going to be subjected to the sound of Peter Lawford singing Christmas songs, because "Christmas with the Rat Pack" leaves the singing to Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Sammy Davis, Jr. The Chairman of the Board and Dino get eight tracks each, with Sammy only getting three, and then the trio sing the last two songs together and live. As you would expect, this is a Christmas album for those who are looking for something a bit stronger than eggnog when they are trimming the tree.

Martin gets to cover the hip seasonal songs, like "I've Got My Love to Keep Me Warm," "Baby It's Cold Outside," and "Let it Snow! Let it Snow! Let it Snow!" while Frank does more of the religious songs, such as "The First Noel" and "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing." All Sammy gets to sing is "Christmas Time All Over the World," "The Christmas Song," and "Jingle Bells." Martin gets to cover "Silver Bells," "White Christmas," and "Winter Wonderland," so he makes a strong showing on this album. Sinatra, as you would expect, shines most on songs that show his finely honed vocalization skills, such as "The Christmas Waltz," "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas," and "I'll Be Home for Christmas."

Obviously it would be nice if Sammy was thrown a few more crumbs, and you can argue the album would hang together better if they cut the couple of songs Martin sings that really sound like he is holding a martini in one hand. Fans will probably not care, but there are a few tracks that seem to run a bit more against the grain than some of the others, even though Martin milks them for all they are worth. The cover is an "Ocean's 11" inspired image that had the "11" with a couple of candy stripes and then a shot of the three kings of holiday singing.

auld lang syne, 09 Dec 2003
christmas AS IT SHOULD BE SUNG. YOUNG OR OLD IT MUST APPEAL TO EVERYONE ALL THE CLASSICS THAT SEEM TO HAVE BEEN AROUND AS LONG AS CHRISTMAS ITS SELF BUT STILL FEEL FRESH AND WARMING. SHERRY OR ALCOPOP THIS IS TOP OF THE CROP. GO ON, HAVE ANOTHER MINCE PIE

From Sweet Carolines to Beautiful Carols, 07 Nov 2007
For years I had been searching for the perfect Xmas CD to have playing in the background whilst the family are busy enjoying the day.............whether it be helping preparing the lunch, dressing the tree, entertaining friends and family with drinks and nibbles or simply sitting in front of an open fire on Xmas Eve watching the flickering flames in the dim of the evening.

I didn't want a stodgy old production from years ago; neither did I necessarily want an upbeat collection of dance floor fillers like Slade etc. No, I wanted a combination of traditional with a mix of heart-warming songs that reflect both my childhood and current musical tastes (I'm 50).

I had no advance notice that this was coming out at the time and only discovered it in the HMV rack in my local store whilst looking through Neil Diamond's CDs. As an avid fan it was something that I habitually did. However, having seen how his music had deteriorated in quality over the years, I was both excited and concerned when I came across this CD.

The song listing looked superb and the thought of Neil Diamond singing them sounded too good to be true but.................ah! that but that had been the start of many of my criticisms of his output for a while. Would I be disappointed?

Well 15 years later I can tell you that this still my main source of Xmas music during the festive season. It is wonderful.............from a personal point of view, it is tailor made for what I want.

The key carols such as Silent Night, Little Drummer Boy and my favourite Holy Night, he plays straight and produces superb renditions that capture the magic that is Xmas. But, equally as good, he throws in wonderful versions of Santa Claus is Coming to Town (Fun and toe tapping), Happy Xmas War is Over and Jingle Bell Rock.

I love this album, traditional, moving, fun and enhancing all in one. He could have overblown it but kept everything exactly the right side of sincere. Whenever it is on it fills the house with great songs and great memories. People present can't help but sing along which is really what you are trying to capture at this time of year. A gathering of friends and family, relaxed and enjoying each other's company with a perfect soundtrack for the occasion washing over you

This Xmas will be no exception; I will play it for the period leading up to the big day and well into Boxing Day. I will then file it away once again for another 12 months and be happy to repeat the process until the day I become myself a ghost of Xmas past.


A must have Christmas Album, 16 Dec 2003
I recently bought Neil Diamond's Christmas Alum, having searched for it for some time now. And may I say, it was well worth it. I love all but 1 of the tracks. Normally, the first time you hear a CD it never really impresses you, and you are left wandering why ever did I buy this, and then it grows on you. But not with this one, it engages you immediately. The entire song selection is excellent, with Neil Diamonds unique voice and flare shining through. It really puts you in a christmas spirit. You can tell that Neil Diamond genuinely loves christmas, as perhaps most of us do. However, if you are one for fast pase christmas music, this is perhaps not the album for you, although it does have it up tempo songs (by no means I'm I saying that this album is slow). I'll close by saying that I'm happy with my purchase, and would suggest that you also get volume II of this album - I would rate it 5 stars. Don't know how I had one without the other.

neil diamond christmas album, 24 Nov 2003
I have been searching for this album for more than a year now.I had a copy of the album in Botswana,Africa and you won't believe how many people loved to hear this album.As for my children,they have never stopped talking about the songs on the album like 'jingle bell rock'.Now that christmas is around the corner,i would love to surprise the children with this album.
Well done Neil and Merry Christmas.

A perfect martini-and-mistletoe combo, Christmas Cocktails will gaily seduce you with its bevy of nostalgic and occasionally campy holiday fare. Vocal vixens Peggy Lee, Julie London (her "I'd Like You for Christmas" will melt the ice cubes in your fridge), Kay Starr and Nancy Wilson join forces with perennial crooners such as Lou Rawls, Dean Martin and the immortal Nat "King" Cole, along with a handful of instrumental big-band numbers and odd, at times cheese-ball-shaped jazz organ pieces from Jimmy McGriff and the flammable Eddie Dundstedter, among others. But the essential item that makes plunking down your pelts for this very chi-chi set is none other than Billy May's lovably kitschy workout called "Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer Mambo"--it's a scream. The package comes complete with its own cocktail minimanual and the recipes for Hot Toddys and Hot Tom and Jerrys. Garishly retro and naughtily nostalgic, this kind of slinky Christmas gift should probably be illegal in many prudish countries. --Martin Keller

Bah Humbag!, 30 Oct 2008
Absolutely awful, this is a shoddy complilation of Xmas songs. The sound quality is terrible and the album seems to be a montage of old radio broadcasts. At times it seems that Sinatra is singing with a bucket on his head. If you want real nostalga then this album may appeal but I would advise you to stay well clear.

For a Classic Christmas, 30 Nov 2007
I would disregard the first review of this CD and skip straight to the second. This CD is wonderful. For those that want a more traditional, classic Christmas this is the one to get. Sit by a roaring fireside under the twinkling lights of the christmas tree, mulled wine in one hand, mince pie in the other and this music playing in the background. Truly magical!

My favourites on the 2 CD's (bargain!) are Dean Martin's "It's Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas", Louis Armstrong's "Zat you Santa Claus" and Frank Sinatra's "Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas".

The quality of the music is as good as you can get when the recordings are so old. It's not crackly and inaudible however, just full of charm.

You really can't go wrong purchasing this! Merry Christmas!

Superb- A Heartwarming Soundtrack to Your Xmas, 25 Nov 2007
I really dont understand the last reviewers negative comments. True, these recordings arent modern quality ... GOOOOOOD !. These were recorded well over 50 years ago, what do you expect ?. For me, this adds to the experience.
These recordings are good quality, not like some of those rediculous Rat Pack
sets you get, which are live & terrible quality. Most are studio recordings & some are songs lifted from live recordings of festive radio shows (still recorded in a studio). I love this 3 cd set, just pop it on, on Christmas morning ... Perfect.



Don't Buy This, 07 Dec 2006
Don't buy this CD. The sound quality is absolutely appalling -- it's as if someone is holding a microphone to a cheap radio with bad reception. Dreadful, absolutely waste of money even though it is cheap. (I'd give it ``minus'' stars if I could.)

This Ones Top Of The Christmas Tree!!!, 10 Dec 2007
Here it is! Many of the most popular christmas songs from yesteryear. Christmas would'nt be christmas without Andy Williams. With his jazzed up singing style Andy throws life into the songs on this cd & makes it a real joy to listen to!
If you want a really good traditional christmas CD then this is it!!
10/10

MEMORIES OF MY FIRST MARRIED CHRISTMAS, 22 Nov 2007
The first Christmas after my marriage, I bought this album on cassette, which was eventually damaged. Every Christmas I remember with fond nostalgia it being a part of my early married life at the end of every year. This year I have found, with the help of Amazon Reviews, the C.D. which is obviously the same album I bought in 1977. Thank You Everyone!

A True Classic, 06 Nov 2007
My parents also had this in the 70's, albeit with a different sleeve. I can assure you it is exactly the same record, with all the songs sounding the same and in the same order! Had to buy this to indoctrinate my own children in to 'the Andy Williams'. With his effortless, velvety voice, you can't but help think of sleigh rides and twee Christmassy images. A must have for any record collection

aaahhh the sweet sound of nostalgia, 06 Dec 2006
yep, me too, my mum & dad also had the vinyl version of this and i palyed it and played it, the album SCREAMS kitsch christmas, a definate must for easy listening fans and people who want to hearup tempo versions of christmas classics in an andy williams type of way

This is NOT the 1963 Christmas album, 15 Nov 2004
Despite what the previous post claims, this is not the 1963 album. Rather this is a compilation featuring a selection of tracks from all three seasonal albums Andy recorded for Columbia in 1963, 1965 and 1974.

That being said it is an excellent Christmas CD. The original 1963 and 1965 albums have just been reissued Stateside, but the superb 1974 "Christmas Present" (one of the truly great Christmas albums) remains out of print on CD, so this compilation is the only way you will get tracks from this album in digital format, until hopefully Sony/Columbia re-issue it. Perhaps in time for Christmas 2005?

Fun packed Christmas, 14 Nov 2008
This is just what Christmas should be about, a good ol sing along.
Great Songs and performances.
Would recomend to anyone.

ignore the squares, 10 Nov 2008
Ignore the squares who dont like this album. Its great and after listening to Deano, "lets have some eggnog!" great fun and some lovely tracks, christmas ring a ding dong!

Dont bother, 18 Dec 2007
I was disapointed by the quality of the recording - I (probably unrealistically) expected CD quality but found it to be worse that cassette. The songs are not the best but I could have lived with that if the sound had been acceptable. One for the bin in my opinion.

Is that smell chestnuts roasting on an open fire or cheese?, 29 Nov 2007
Cheesier than a slice of Stilton covered in melted Brie. I bought this a couple of years ago in an attempt to be ironic, now I wouldn't allow it anywhere near a CD player, it hasn't got better with age. If you want a trip down memory lane buy Phil Spectors Christmas album!

Oh My this is so good, 26 Nov 2007
Great collection from true icons that show these modern pop stars how it is done

Smooth Christmas, 24 Oct 2008
In a vote for the best Christmas album, it's a toss up for me between this and Phil Spector's.

The voices of Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin are perfect for Christmas songs. They sound all warm and homely, and you can almost imagine them standing in front of a log fire singing these.

Plus, the banter between Frank, Dean and Sammy is pretty entertaining and makes the songs stand out from the usual Christmas standards.

If you get it, you'll bring it out every year and it will put a smile on your face!

Superb Christmas Album, 08 Jan 2006
If you like these 3 superb performers and if you like Christmas music, you will absolutely love this album. I have been listening to this CD in my car for the last two months and I love it. Final verdict: You will not regret buying this great CD. Enjoy.

Frank is great, Dean is pretty good, but we need more Sammy, 04 Dec 2004
Do not worry that you are going to be subjected to the sound of Peter Lawford singing Christmas songs, because "Christmas with the Rat Pack" leaves the singing to Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Sammy Davis, Jr. The Chairman of the Board and Dino get eight tracks each, with Sammy only getting three, and then the trio sing the last two songs together and live. As you would expect, this is a Christmas album for those who are looking for something a bit stronger than eggnog when they are trimming the tree.

Martin gets to cover the hip seasonal songs, like "I've Got My Love to Keep Me Warm," "Baby It's Cold Outside," and "Let it Snow! Let it Snow! Let it Snow!" while Frank does more of the religious songs, such as "The First Noel" and "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing." All Sammy gets to sing is "Christmas Time All Over the World," "The Christmas Song," and "Jingle Bells." Martin gets to cover "Silver Bells," "White Christmas," and "Winter Wonderland," so he makes a strong showing on this album. Sinatra, as you would expect, shines most on songs that show his finely honed vocalization skills, such as "The Christmas Waltz," "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas," and "I'll Be Home for Christmas."

Obviously it would be nice if Sammy was thrown a few more crumbs, and you can argue the album would hang together better if they cut the couple of songs Martin sings that really sound like he is holding a martini in one hand. Fans will probably not care, but there are a few tracks that seem to run a bit more against the grain than some of the others, even though Martin milks them for all they are worth. The cover is an "Ocean's 11" inspired image that had the "11" with a couple of candy stripes and then a shot of the three kings of holiday singing.

auld lang syne, 09 Dec 2003
christmas AS IT SHOULD BE SUNG. YOUNG OR OLD IT MUST APPEAL TO EVERYONE ALL THE CLASSICS THAT SEEM TO HAVE BEEN AROUND AS LONG AS CHRISTMAS ITS SELF BUT STILL FEEL FRESH AND WARMING. SHERRY OR ALCOPOP THIS IS TOP OF THE CROP. GO ON, HAVE ANOTHER MINCE PIE

From Sweet Carolines to Beautiful Carols, 07 Nov 2007
For years I had been searching for the perfect Xmas CD to have playing in the background whilst the family are busy enjoying the day.............whether it be helping preparing the lunch, dressing the tree, entertaining friends and family with drinks and nibbles or simply sitting in front of an open fire on Xmas Eve watching the flickering flames in the dim of the evening.

I didn't want a stodgy old production from years ago; neither did I necessarily want an upbeat collection of dance floor fillers like Slade etc. No, I wanted a combination of traditional with a mix of heart-warming songs that reflect both my childhood and current musical tastes (I'm 50).

I had no advance notice that this was coming out at the time and only discovered it in the HMV rack in my local store whilst looking through Neil Diamond's CDs. As an avid fan it was something that I habitually did. However, having seen how his music had deteriorated in quality over the years, I was both excited and concerned when I came across this CD.

The song listing looked superb and the thought of Neil Diamond singing them sounded too good to be true but.................ah! that but that had been the start of many of my criticisms of his output for a while. Would I be disappointed?

Well 15 years later I can tell you that this still my main source of Xmas music during the festive season. It is wonderful.............from a personal point of view, it is tailor made for what I want.

The key carols such as Silent Night, Little Drummer Boy and my favourite Holy Night, he plays straight and produces superb renditions that capture the magic that is Xmas. But, equally as good, he throws in wonderful versions of Santa Claus is Coming to Town (Fun and toe tapping), Happy Xmas War is Over and Jingle Bell Rock.

I love this album, traditional, moving, fun and enhancing all in one. He could have overblown it but kept everything exactly the right side of sincere. Whenever it is on it fills the house with great songs and great memories. People present can't help but sing along which is really what you are trying to capture at this time of year. A gathering of friends and family, relaxed and enjoying each other's company with a perfect soundtrack for the occasion washing over you

This Xmas will be no exception; I will play it for the period leading up to the big day and well into Boxing Day. I will then file it away once again for another 12 months and be happy to repeat the process until the day I become myself a ghost of Xmas past.


A must have Christmas Album, 16 Dec 2003
I recently bought Neil Diamond's Christmas Alum, having searched for it for some time now. And may I say, it was well worth it. I love all but 1 of the tracks. Normally, the first time you hear a CD it never really impresses you, and you are left wandering why ever did I buy this, and then it grows on you. But not with this one, it engages you immediately. The entire song selection is excellent, with Neil Diamonds unique voice and flare shining through. It really puts you in a christmas spirit. You can tell that Neil Diamond genuinely loves christmas, as perhaps most of us do. However, if you are one for fast pase christmas music, this is perhaps not the album for you, although it does have it up tempo songs (by no means I'm I saying that this album is slow). I'll close by saying that I'm happy with my purchase, and would suggest that you also get volume II of this album - I would rate it 5 stars. Don't know how I had one without the other.

neil diamond christmas album, 24 Nov 2003
I have been searching for this album for more than a year now.I had a copy of the album in Botswana,Africa and you won't believe how many people loved to hear this album.As for my children,they have never stopped talking about the songs on the album like 'jingle bell rock'.Now that christmas is around the corner,i would love to surprise the children with this album.
Well done Neil and Merry Christmas.

If santa was a pin-up..., 06 Dec 2000
Generally very COOL mix of funky, jazzy, bossa-nova-ish, X-mas songs. Makes for a great excuse to jump around and shake your stuff - go on burn those mince pies!!!!

Bah Humbag!, 30 Oct 2008
Absolutely awful, this is a shoddy complilation of Xmas songs. The sound quality is terrible and the album seems to be a montage of old radio broadcasts. At times it seems that Sinatra is singing with a bucket on his head. If you want real nostalga then this album may appeal but I would advise you to stay well clear.

For a Classic Christmas, 30 Nov 2007
I would disregard the first review of this CD and skip straight to the second. This CD is wonderful. For those that want a more traditional, classic Christmas this is the one to get. Sit by a roaring fireside under the twinkling lights of the christmas tree, mulled wine in one hand, mince pie in the other and this music playing in the background. Truly magical!

My favourites on the 2 CD's (bargain!) are Dean Martin's "It's Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas", Louis Armstrong's "Zat you Santa Claus" and Frank Sinatra's "Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas".

The quality of the music is as good as you can get when the recordings are so old. It's not crackly and inaudible however, just full of charm.

You really can't go wrong purchasing this! Merry Christmas!

Superb- A Heartwarming Soundtrack to Your Xmas, 25 Nov 2007
I really dont understand the last reviewers negative comments. True, these recordings arent modern quality ... GOOOOOOD !. These were recorded well over 50 years ago, what do you expect ?. For me, this adds to the experience.
These recordings are good quality, not like some of those rediculous Rat Pack
sets you get, which are live & terrible quality. Most are studio recordings & some are songs lifted from live recordings of festive radio shows (still recorded in a studio). I love this 3 cd set, just pop it on, on Christmas morning ... Perfect.



Don't Buy This, 07 Dec 2006
Don't buy this CD. The sound quality is absolutely appalling -- it's as if someone is holding a microphone to a cheap radio with bad reception. Dreadful, absolutely waste of money even though it is cheap. (I'd give it ``minus'' stars if I could.)

This Ones Top Of The Christmas Tree!!!, 10 Dec 2007
Here it is! Many of the most popular christmas songs from yesteryear. Christmas would'nt be christmas without Andy Williams. With his jazzed up singing style Andy throws life into the songs on this cd & makes it a real joy to listen to!
If you want a really good traditional christmas CD then this is it!!
10/10

MEMORIES OF MY FIRST MARRIED CHRISTMAS, 22 Nov 2007
The first Christmas after my marriage, I bought this album on cassette, which was eventually damaged. Every Christmas I remember with fond nostalgia it being a part of my early married life at the end of every year. This year I have found, with the help of Amazon Reviews, the C.D. which is obviously the same album I bought in 1977. Thank You Everyone!

A True Classic, 06 Nov 2007
My parents also had this in the 70's, albeit with a different sleeve. I can assure you it is exactly the same record, with all the songs sounding the same and in the same order! Had to buy this to indoctrinate my own children in to 'the Andy Williams'. With his effortless, velvety voice, you can't but help think of sleigh rides and twee Christmassy images. A must have for any record collection

aaahhh the sweet sound of nostalgia, 06 Dec 2006
yep, me too, my mum & dad also had the vinyl version of this and i palyed it and played it, the album SCREAMS kitsch christmas, a definate must for easy listening fans and people who want to hearup tempo versions of christmas classics in an andy williams type of way

This is NOT the 1963 Christmas album, 15 Nov 2004
Despite what the previous post claims, this is not the 1963 album. Rather this is a compilation featuring a selection of tracks from all three seasonal albums Andy recorded for Columbia in 1963, 1965 and 1974.

That being said it is an excellent Christmas CD. The original 1963 and 1965 albums have just been reissued Stateside, but the superb 1974 "Christmas Present" (one of the truly great Christmas albums) remains out of print on CD, so this compilation is the only way you will get tracks from this album in digital format, until hopefully Sony/Columbia re-issue it. Perhaps in time for Christmas 2005?

Fun packed Christmas, 14 Nov 2008
This is just what Christmas should be about, a good ol sing along.
Great Songs and performances.
Would recomend to anyone.

ignore the squares, 10 Nov 2008
Ignore the squares who dont like this album. Its great and after listening to Deano, "lets have some eggnog!" great fun and some lovely tracks, christmas ring a ding dong!

Dont bother, 18 Dec 2007
I was disapointed by the quality of the recording - I (probably unrealistically) expected CD quality but found it to be worse that cassette. The songs are not the best but I could have lived with that if the sound had been acceptable. One for the bin in my opinion.

Is that smell chestnuts roasting on an open fire or cheese?, 29 Nov 2007
Cheesier than a slice of Stilton covered in melted Brie. I bought this a couple of years ago in an attempt to be ironic, now I wouldn't allow it anywhere near a CD player, it hasn't got better with age. If you want a trip down memory lane buy Phil Spectors Christmas album!

Oh My this is so good, 26 Nov 2007
Great collection from true icons that show these modern pop stars how it is done

Smooth Christmas, 24 Oct 2008
In a vote for the best Christmas album, it's a toss up for me between this and Phil Spector's.

The voices of Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin are perfect for Christmas songs. They sound all warm and homely, and you can almost imagine them standing in front of a log fire singing these.

Plus, the banter between Frank, Dean and Sammy is pretty entertaining and makes the songs stand out from the usual Christmas standards.

If you get it, you'll bring it out every year and it will put a smile on your face!

Superb Christmas Album, 08 Jan 2006
If you like these 3 superb performers and if you like Christmas music, you will absolutely love this album. I have been listening to this CD in my car for the last two months and I love it. Final verdict: You will not regret buying this great CD. Enjoy.

Frank is great, Dean is pretty good, but we need more Sammy, 04 Dec 2004
Do not worry that you are going to be subjected to the sound of Peter Lawford singing Christmas songs, because "Christmas with the Rat Pack" leaves the singing to Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Sammy Davis, Jr. The Chairman of the Board and Dino get eight tracks each, with Sammy only getting three, and then the trio sing the last two songs together and live. As you would expect, this is a Christmas album for those who are looking for something a bit stronger than eggnog when they are trimming the tree.

Martin gets to cover the hip seasonal songs, like "I've Got My Love to Keep Me Warm," "Baby It's Cold Outside," and "Let it Snow! Let it Snow! Let it Snow!" while Frank does more of the religious songs, such as "The First Noel" and "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing." All Sammy gets to sing is "Christmas Time All Over the World," "The Christmas Song," and "Jingle Bells." Martin gets to cover "Silver Bells," "White Christmas," and "Winter Wonderland," so he makes a strong showing on this album. Sinatra, as you would expect, shines most on songs that show his finely honed vocalization skills, such as "The Christmas Waltz," "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas," and "I'll Be Home for Christmas."

Obviously it would be nice if Sammy was thrown a few more crumbs, and you can argue the album would hang together better if they cut the couple of songs Martin sings that really sound like he is holding a martini in one hand. Fans will probably not care, but there are a few tracks that seem to run a bit more against the grain than some of the others, even though Martin milks them for all they are worth. The cover is an "Ocean's 11" inspired image that had the "11" with a couple of candy stripes and then a shot of the three kings of holiday singing.

auld lang syne, 09 Dec 2003
christmas AS IT SHOULD BE SUNG. YOUNG OR OLD IT MUST APPEAL TO EVERYONE ALL THE CLASSICS THAT SEEM TO HAVE BEEN AROUND AS LONG AS CHRISTMAS ITS SELF BUT STILL FEEL FRESH AND WARMING. SHERRY OR ALCOPOP THIS IS TOP OF THE CROP. GO ON, HAVE ANOTHER MINCE PIE

From Sweet Carolines to Beautiful Carols, 07 Nov 2007
For years I had been searching for the perfect Xmas CD to have playing in the background whilst the family are busy enjoying the day.............whether it be helping preparing the lunch, dressing the tree, entertaining friends and family with drinks and nibbles or simply sitting in front of an open fire on Xmas Eve watching the flickering flames in the dim of the evening.

I didn't want a stodgy old production from years ago; neither did I necessarily want an upbeat collection of dance floor fillers like Slade etc. No, I wanted a combination of traditional with a mix of heart-warming songs that reflect both my childhood and current musical tastes (I'm 50).

I had no advance notice that this was coming out at the time and only discovered it in the HMV rack in my local store whilst looking through Neil Diamond's CDs. As an avid fan it was something that I habitually did. However, having seen how his music had deteriorated in quality over the years, I was both excited and concerned when I came across this CD.

The song listing looked superb and the thought of Neil Diamond singing them sounded too good to be true but.................ah! that but that had been the start of many of my criticisms of his output for a while. Would I be disappointed?

Well 15 years later I can tell you that this still my main source of Xmas music during the festive season. It is wonderful.............from a personal point of view, it is tailor made for what I want.

The key carols such as Silent Night, Little Drummer Boy and my favourite Holy Night, he plays straight and produces superb renditions that capture the magic that is Xmas. But, equally as good, he throws in wonderful versions of Santa Claus is Coming to Town (Fun and toe tapping), Happy Xmas War is Over and Jingle Bell Rock.

I love this album, traditional, moving, fun and enhancing all in one. He could have overblown it but kept everything exactly the right side of sincere. Whenever it is on it fills the house with great songs and great memories. People present can't help but sing along which is really what you are trying to capture at this time of year. A gathering of friends and family, relaxed and enjoying each other's company with a perfect soundtrack for the occasion washing over you

This Xmas will be no exception; I will play it for the period leading up to the big day and well into Boxing Day. I will then file it away once again for another 12 months and be happy to repeat the process until the day I become myself a ghost of Xmas past.


A must have Christmas Album, 16 Dec 2003
I recently bought Neil Diamond's Christmas Alum, having searched for it for some time now. And may I say, it was well worth it. I love all but 1 of the tracks. Normally, the first time you hear a CD it never really impresses you, and you are left wandering why ever did I buy this, and then it grows on you. But not with this one, it engages you immediately. The entire song selection is excellent, with Neil Diamonds unique voice and flare shining through. It really puts you in a christmas spirit. You can tell that Neil Diamond genuinely loves christmas, as perhaps most of us do. However, if you are one for fast pase christmas music, this is perhaps not the album for you, although it does have it up tempo songs (by no means I'm I saying that this album is slow). I'll close by saying that I'm happy with my purchase, and would suggest that you also get volume II of this album - I would rate it 5 stars. Don't know how I had one without the other.

neil diamond christmas album, 24 Nov 2003
I have been searching for this album for more than a year now.I had a copy of the album in Botswana,Africa and you won't believe how many people loved to hear this album.As for my children,they have never stopped talking about the songs on the album like 'jingle bell rock'.Now that christmas is around the corner,i would love to surprise the children with this album.
Well done Neil and Merry Christmas.

If santa was a pin-up..., 06 Dec 2000
Generally very COOL mix of funky, jazzy, bossa-nova-ish, X-mas songs. Makes for a great excuse to jump around and shake your stuff - go on burn those mince pies!!!!

Can't beat Bing!, 02 Feb 2006
I was wanting a CD version to replace my old tape version of White Christmas. This CD was cheaper and contains all the old favorites on my tape, plus several more. Bing is such a great singer! Best value for money.

Bah Humbag!, 30 Oct 2008
Absolutely awful, this is a shoddy complilation of Xmas songs. The sound quality is terrible and the album seems to be a montage of old radio broadcasts. At times it seems that Sinatra is singing with a bucket on his head. If you want real nostalga then this album may appeal but I would advise you to stay well clear.

For a Classic Christmas, 30 Nov 2007
I would disregard the first review of this CD and skip straight to the second. This CD is wonderful. For those that want a more traditional, classic Christmas this is the one to get. Sit by a roaring fireside under the twinkling lights of the christmas tree, mulled wine in one hand, mince pie in the other and this music playing in the background. Truly magical!

My favourites on the 2 CD's (bargain!) are Dean Martin's "It's Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas", Louis Armstrong's "Zat you Santa Claus" and Frank Sinatra's "Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas".

The quality of the music is as good as you can get when the recordings are so old. It's not crackly and inaudible however, just full of charm.

You really can't go wrong purchasing this! Merry Christmas!

Superb- A Heartwarming Soundtrack to Your Xmas, 25 Nov 2007
I really dont understand the last reviewers negative comments. True, these recordings arent modern quality ... GOOOOOOD !. These were recorded well over 50 years ago, what do you expect ?. For me, this adds to the experience.
These recordings are good quality, not like some of those rediculous Rat Pack
sets you get, which are live & terrible quality. Most are studio recordings & some are songs lifted from live recordings of festive radio shows (still recorded in a studio). I love this 3 cd set, just pop it on, on Christmas morning ... Perfect.



Don't Buy This, 07 Dec 2006
Don't buy this CD. The sound quality is absolutely appalling -- it's as if someone is holding a microphone to a cheap radio with bad reception. Dreadful, absolutely waste of money even though it is cheap. (I'd give it ``minus'' stars if I could.)

This Ones Top Of The Christmas Tree!!!, 10 Dec 2007
Here it is! Many of the most popular christmas songs from yesteryear. Christmas would'nt be christmas without Andy Williams. With his jazzed up singing style Andy throws life into the songs on this cd & makes it a real joy to listen to!
If you want a really good traditional christmas CD then this is it!!
10/10

MEMORIES OF MY FIRST MARRIED CHRISTMAS, 22 Nov 2007
The first Christmas after my marriage, I bought this album on cassette, which was eventually damaged. Every Christmas I remember with fond nostalgia it being a part of my early married life at the end of every year. This year I have found, with the help of Amazon Reviews, the C.D. which is obviously the same album I bought in 1977. Thank You Everyone!

A True Classic, 06 Nov 2007
My parents also had this in the 70's, albeit with a different sleeve. I can assure you it is exactly the same record, with all the songs sounding the same and in the same order! Had to buy this to indoctrinate my own children in to 'the Andy Williams'. With his effortless, velvety voice, you can't but help think of sleigh rides and twee Christmassy images. A must have for any record collection

aaahhh the sweet sound of nostalgia, 06 Dec 2006
yep, me too, my mum & dad also had the vinyl version of this and i palyed it and played it, the album SCREAMS kitsch christmas, a definate must for easy listening fans and people who want to hearup tempo versions of christmas classics in an andy williams type of way

This is NOT the 1963 Christmas album, 15 Nov 2004
Despite what the previous post claims, this is not the 1963 album. Rather this is a compilation featuring a selection of tracks from all three seasonal albums Andy recorded for Columbia in 1963, 1965 and 1974.

That being said it is an excellent Christmas CD. The original 1963 and 1965 albums have just been reissued Stateside, but the superb 1974 "Christmas Present" (one of the truly great Christmas albums) remains out of print on CD, so this compilation is the only way you will get tracks from this album in digital format, until hopefully Sony/Columbia re-issue it. Perhaps in time for Christmas 2005?

Fun packed Christmas, 14 Nov 2008
This is just what Christmas should be about, a good ol sing along.
Great Songs and performances.
Would recomend to anyone.

ignore the squares, 10 Nov 2008
Ignore the squares who dont like this album. Its great and after listening to Deano, "lets have some eggnog!" great fun and some lovely tracks, christmas ring a ding dong!

Dont bother, 18 Dec 2007
I was disapointed by the quality of the recording - I (probably unrealistically) expected CD quality but found it to be worse that cassette. The songs are not the best but I could have lived with that if the sound had been acceptable. One for the bin in my opinion.

Is that smell chestnuts roasting on an open fire or cheese?, 29 Nov 2007
Cheesier than a slice of Stilton covered in melted Brie. I bought this a couple of years ago in an attempt to be ironic, now I wouldn't allow it anywhere near a CD player, it hasn't got better with age. If you want a trip down memory lane buy Phil Spectors Christmas album!

Oh My this is so good, 26 Nov 2007
Great collection from true icons that show these modern pop stars how it is done

Smooth Christmas, 24 Oct 2008
In a vote for the best Christmas album, it's a toss up for me between this and Phil Spector's.

The voices of Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin are perfect for Christmas songs. They sound all warm and homely, and you can almost imagine them standing in front of a log fire singing these.

Plus, the banter between Frank, Dean and Sammy is pretty entertaining and makes the songs stand out from the usual Christmas standards.

If you get it, you'll bring it out every year and it will put a smile on your face!

Superb Christmas Album, 08 Jan 2006
If you like these 3 superb performers and if you like Christmas music, you will absolutely love this album. I have been listening to this CD in my car for the last two months and I love it. Final verdict: You will not regret buying this great CD. Enjoy.

Frank is great, Dean is pretty good, but we need more Sammy, 04 Dec 2004
Do not worry that you are going to be subjected to the sound of Peter Lawford singing Christmas songs, because "Christmas with the Rat Pack" leaves the singing to Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Sammy Davis, Jr. The Chairman of the Board and Dino get eight tracks each, with Sammy only getting three, and then the trio sing the last two songs together and live. As you would expect, this is a Christmas album for those who are looking for something a bit stronger than eggnog when they are trimming the tree.

Martin gets to cover the hip seasonal songs, like "I've Got My Love to Keep Me Warm," "Baby It's Cold Outside," and "Let it Snow! Let it Snow! Let it Snow!" while Frank does more of the religious songs, such as "The First Noel" and "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing." All Sammy gets to sing is "Christmas Time All Over the World," "The Christmas Song," and "Jingle Bells." Martin gets to cover "Silver Bells," "White Christmas," and "Winter Wonderland," so he makes a strong showing on this album. Sinatra, as you would expect, shines most on songs that show his finely honed vocalization skills, such as "The Christmas Waltz," "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas," and "I'll Be Home for Christmas."

Obviously it would be nice if Sammy was thrown a few more crumbs, and you can argue the album would hang together better if they cut the couple of songs Martin sings that really sound like he is holding a martini in one hand. Fans will probably not care, but there are a few tracks that seem to run a bit more against the grain than some of the others, even though Martin milks them for all they are worth. The cover is an "Ocean's 11" inspired image that had the "11" with a couple of candy stripes and then a shot of the three kings of holiday singing.

auld lang syne, 09 Dec 2003
christmas AS IT SHOULD BE SUNG. YOUNG OR OLD IT MUST APPEAL TO EVERYONE ALL THE CLASSICS THAT SEEM TO HAVE BEEN AROUND AS LONG AS CHRISTMAS ITS SELF BUT STILL FEEL FRESH AND WARMING. SHERRY OR ALCOPOP THIS IS TOP OF THE CROP. GO ON, HAVE ANOTHER MINCE PIE

From Sweet Carolines to Beautiful Carols, 07 Nov 2007
For years I had been searching for the perfect Xmas CD to have playing in the background whilst the family are busy enjoying the day.............whether it be helping preparing the lunch, dressing the tree, entertaining friends and family with drinks and nibbles or simply sitting in front of an open fire on Xmas Eve watching the flickering flames in the dim of the evening.

I didn't want a stodgy old production from years ago; neither did I necessarily want an upbeat collection of dance floor fillers like Slade etc. No, I wanted a combination of traditional with a mix of heart-warming songs that reflect both my childhood and current musical tastes (I'm 50).

I had no advance notice that this was coming out at the time and only discovered it in the HMV rack in my local store whilst looking through Neil Diamond's CDs. As an avid fan it was something that I habitually did. However, having seen how his music had deteriorated in quality over the years, I was both excited and concerned when I came across this CD.

The song listing looked superb and the thought of Neil Diamond singing them sounded too good to be true but.................ah! that but that had been the start of many of my criticisms of his output for a while. Would I be disappointed?

Well 15 years later I can tell you that this still my main source of Xmas music during the festive season. It is wonderful.............from a personal point of view, it is tailor made for what I want.

The key carols such as Silent Night, Little Drummer Boy and my favourite Holy Night, he plays straight and produces superb renditions that capture the magic that is Xmas. But, equally as good, he throws in wonderful versions of Santa Claus is Coming to Town (Fun and toe tapping), Happy Xmas War is Over and Jingle Bell Rock.

I love this album, traditional, moving, fun and enhancing all in one. He could have overblown it but kept everything exactly the right side of sincere. Whenever it is on it fills the house with great songs and great memories. People present can't help but sing along which is really what you are trying to capture at this time of year. A gathering of friends and family, relaxed and enjoying each other's company with a perfect soundtrack for the occasion washing over you

This Xmas will be no exception; I will play it for the period leading up to the big day and well into Boxing Day. I will then file it away once again for another 12 months and be happy to repeat the process until the day I become myself a ghost of Xmas past.


A must have Christmas Album, 16 Dec 2003
I recently bought Neil Diamond's Christmas Alum, having searched for it for some time now. And may I say, it was well worth it. I love all but 1 of the tracks. Normally, the first time you hear a CD it never really impresses you, and you are left wandering why ever did I buy this, and then it grows on you. But not with this one, it engages you immediately. The entire song selection is excellent, with Neil Diamonds unique voice and flare shining through. It really puts you in a christmas spirit. You can tell that Neil Diamond genuinely loves christmas, as perhaps most of us do. However, if you are one for fast pase christmas music, this is perhaps not the album for you, although it does have it up tempo songs (by no means I'm I saying that this album is slow). I'll close by saying that I'm happy with my purchase, and would suggest that you also get volume II of this album - I would rate it 5 stars. Don't know how I had one without the other.

neil diamond christmas album, 24 Nov 2003
I have been searching for this album for more than a year now.I had a copy of the album in Botswana,Africa and you won't believe how many people loved to hear this album.As for my children,they have never stopped talking about the songs on the album like 'jingle bell rock'.Now that christmas is around the corner,i would love to surprise the children with this album.
Well done Neil and Merry Christmas.

If santa was a pin-up..., 06 Dec 2000
Generally very COOL mix of funky, jazzy, bossa-nova-ish, X-mas songs. Makes for a great excuse to jump around and shake your stuff - go on burn those mince pies!!!!

Can't beat Bing!, 02 Feb 2006
I was wanting a CD version to replace my old tape version of White Christmas. This CD was cheaper and contains all the old favorites on my tape, plus several more. Bing is such a great singer! Best value for money.

Some of Mario's finest collection., 02 Oct 2007
A superb collection of some of Mario Lanza's finest recordings. Considering some go back to 1949 - 1958, the recordings to CD are excellent. You'll never walk alone, sung as it was originally intended by the great Mario Lanza. A perfect collection for new comers or fans looking for the best of Mario Lanza. A track for every occassion.

Bah Humbag!, 30 Oct 2008
Absolutely awful, this is a shoddy complilation of Xmas songs. The sound quality is terrible and the album seems to be a montage of old radio broadcasts. At times it seems that Sinatra is singing with a bucket on his head. If you want real nostalga then this album may appeal but I would advise you to stay well clear.

For a Classic Christmas, 30 Nov 2007
I would disregard the first review of this CD and skip straight to the second. This CD is wonderful. For those that want a more traditional, classic Christmas this is the one to get. Sit by a roaring fireside under the twinkling lights of the christmas tree, mulled wine in one hand, mince pie in the other and this music playing in the background. Truly magical!

My favourites on the 2 CD's (bargain!) are Dean Martin's "It's Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas", Louis Armstrong's "Zat you Santa Claus" and Frank Sinatra's "Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas".

The quality of the music is as good as you can get when the recordings are so old. It's not crackly and inaudible however, just full of charm.

You really can't go wrong purchasing this! Merry Christmas!

Superb- A Heartwarming Soundtrack to Your Xmas, 25 Nov 2007
I really dont understand the last reviewers negative comments. True, these recordings arent modern quality ... GOOOOOOD !. These were recorded well over 50 years ago, what do you expect ?. For me, this adds to the experience.
These recordings are good quality, not like some of those rediculous Rat Pack
sets you get, which are live & terrible quality. Most are studio recordings & some are songs lifted from live recordings of festive radio shows (still recorded in a studio). I love this 3 cd set, just pop it on, on Christmas morning ... Perfect.



Don't Buy This, 07 Dec 2006
Don't buy this CD. The sound quality is absolutely appalling -- it's as if someone is holding a microphone to a cheap radio with bad reception. Dreadful, absolutely waste of money even though it is cheap. (I'd give it ``minus'' stars if I could.)

This Ones Top Of The Christmas Tree!!!, 10 Dec 2007
Here it is! Many of the most popular christmas songs from yesteryear. Christmas would'nt be christmas without Andy Williams. With his jazzed up singing style Andy throws life into the songs on this cd & makes it a real joy to listen to!
If you want a really good traditional christmas CD then this is it!!
10/10

MEMORIES OF MY FIRST MARRIED CHRISTMAS, 22 Nov 2007
The first Christmas after my marriage, I bought this album on cassette, which was eventually damaged. Every Christmas I remember with fond nostalgia it being a part of my early married life at the end of every year. This year I have found, with the help of Amazon Reviews, the C.D. which is obviously the same album I bought in 1977. Thank You Everyone!

A True Classic, 06 Nov 2007
My parents also had this in the 70's, albeit with a different sleeve. I can assure you it is exactly the same record, with all the songs sounding the same and in the same order! Had to buy this to indoctrinate my own children in to 'the Andy Williams'. With his effortless, velvety voice, you can't but help think of sleigh rides and twee Christmassy images. A must have for any record collection

aaahhh the sweet sound of nostalgia, 06 Dec 2006
yep, me too, my mum & dad also had the vinyl version of this and i palyed it and played it, the album SCREAMS kitsch christmas, a definate must for easy listening fans and people who want to hearup tempo versions of christmas classics in an andy williams type of way

This is NOT the 1963 Christmas album, 15 Nov 2004
Despite what the previous post claims, this is not the 1963 album. Rather this is a compilation featuring a selection of tracks from all three seasonal albums Andy recorded for Columbia in 1963, 1965 and 1974.

That being said it is an excellent Christmas CD. The original 1963 and 1965 albums have just been reissued Stateside, but the superb 1974 "Christmas Present" (one of the truly great Christmas albums) remains out of print on CD, so this compilation is the only way you will get tracks from this album in digital format, until hopefully Sony/Columbia re-issue it. Perhaps in time for Christmas 2005?

Fun packed Christmas, 14 Nov 2008
This is just what Christmas should be about, a good ol sing along.
Great Songs and performances.
Would recomend to anyone.

ignore the squares, 10 Nov 2008
Ignore the squares who dont like this album. Its great and after listening to Deano, "lets have some eggnog!" great fun and some lovely tracks, christmas ring a ding dong!

Dont bother, 18 Dec 2007
I was disapointed by the quality of the recording - I (probably unrealistically) expected CD quality but found it to be worse that cassette. The songs are not the best but I could have lived with that if the sound had been acceptable. One for the bin in my opinion.

Is that smell chestnuts roasting on an open fire or cheese?, 29 Nov 2007
Cheesier than a slice of Stilton covered in melted Brie. I bought this a couple of years ago in an attempt to be ironic, now I wouldn't allow it anywhere near a CD player, it hasn't got better with age. If you want a trip down memory lane buy Phil Spectors Christmas album!

Oh My this is so good, 26 Nov 2007
Great collection from true icons that show these modern pop stars how it is done

Smooth Christmas, 24 Oct 2008
In a vote for the best Christmas album, it's a toss up for me between this and Phil Spector's.

The voices of Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin are perfect for Christmas songs. They sound all warm and homely, and you can almost imagine them standing in front of a log fire singing these.

Plus, the banter between Frank, Dean and Sammy is pretty entertaining and makes the songs stand out from the usual Christmas standards.

If you get it, you'll bring it out every year and it will put a smile on your face!

Superb Christmas Album, 08 Jan 2006
If you like these 3 superb performers and if you like Christmas music, you will absolutely love this album. I have been listening to this CD in my car for the last two months and I love it. Final verdict: You will not regret buying this great CD. Enjoy.

Frank is great, Dean is pretty good, but we need more Sammy, 04 Dec 2004
Do not worry that you are going to be subjected to the sound of Peter Lawford singing Christmas songs, because "Christmas with the Rat Pack" leaves the singing to Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Sammy Davis, Jr. The Chairman of the Board and Dino get eight tracks each, with Sammy only getting three, and then the trio sing the last two songs together and live. As you would expect, this is a Christmas album for those who are looking for something a bit stronger than eggnog when they are trimming the tree.

Martin gets to cover the hip seasonal songs, like "I've Got My Love to Keep Me Warm," "Baby It's Cold Outside," and "Let it Snow! Let it Snow! Let it Snow!" while Frank does more of the religious songs, such as "The First Noel" and "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing." All Sammy gets to sing is "Christmas Time All Over the World," "The Christmas Song," and "Jingle Bells." Martin gets to cover "Silver Bells," "White Christmas," and "Winter Wonderland," so he makes a strong showing on this album. Sinatra, as you would expect, shines most on songs that show his finely honed vocalization skills, such as "The Christmas Waltz," "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas," and "I'll Be Home for Christmas."

Obviously it would be nice if Sammy was thrown a few more crumbs, and you can argue the album would hang together better if they cut the couple of songs Martin sings that really sound like he is holding a martini in one hand. Fans will probably not care, but there are a few tracks that seem to run a bit more against the grain than some of the others, even though Martin milks them for all they are worth. The cover is an "Ocean's 11" inspired image that had the "11" with a couple of candy stripes and then a shot of the three kings of holiday singing.

auld lang syne, 09 Dec 2003
christmas AS IT SHOULD BE SUNG. YOUNG OR OLD IT MUST APPEAL TO EVERYONE ALL THE CLASSICS THAT SEEM TO HAVE BEEN AROUND AS LONG AS CHRISTMAS ITS SELF BUT STILL FEEL FRESH AND WARMING. SHERRY OR ALCOPOP THIS IS TOP OF THE CROP. GO ON, HAVE ANOTHER MINCE PIE

From Sweet Carolines to Beautiful Carols, 07 Nov 2007
For years I had been searching for the perfect Xmas CD to have playing in the background whilst the family are busy enjoying the day.............whether it be helping preparing the lunch, dressing the tree, entertaining friends and famil