Y'all have an easy country Christmas, now, 05 Dec 2004
There are a lot worse albums around than this easy-going collection of country & western versions of favourite Christmas songs.

Opening with Trisha Yearwood's silky-smooth version of "The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting...)" it does lull anyone for whom C&W is not their favourite cup of meat into a false sense of security. Even Loretta Lynn does second cut, "White Christmas", no harm, and Lee Greenwood's "Let It Snow..." is as straight as a bean pole. Reba McEntire's twangy soprano on track four is where the serious stuff starts, and it doesn't look back from there on, with plenty of steel guitars and thick Nashville accents following.

The likes of Yearwood, McEntire and Greenwood have two tracks each, as do Barbara Mandrell, Steve Wariner and Ernest Tubb. You'll gather from these names that we're talking country & western establishment here, none of the feisty, pop/rock influenced stars of the 90s - unfortunately the booklet is short on information so you can't tell exactly when some of these were recorded, but Tubb goes back to the early 1950s, sounding very Hank Williams and "The Last Picture Show". I guess most of them are 1970s/1980s, though, and sound quality is generally good.

The pace is easy throughout - the closest they get to breaking sweat is a little bluegrass square dance from Bill Monroe ("Christmas Time's A Coming") and Ray Stevens' "Greatest Little Christmas Ever Wuz". All the usual Christmas songs are covered, plus some less familiar, and the only carols aired are in a medley, by Steve Wariner, as the closing track. Curiously, there are two versions of "Blue Christmas", one by Ernest Tubb (who also does "Rudolph...") and the other, not much more recent, by Webb Pierce.

It's all clean, wholesome, easy listening, and whiles away just over an hour - can't fault it.

Dwight Yoakam's work as an interpretive singer has been solid and, as far as Christmas music albums go, this one is informed with Yoakam's great vocal talents and a country band that can get these tunes to swing in any juke joint. The rumba of "Here Comes Santa Claus" is a tad forced, but Yoakam's good humor is in evidence. This album may lack the gravitas of his best work, but it shows that even a cowboy feels like kicking off his existential boots sometimes and getting down with standards from years bygone. --Rob O'Connor

Y'all have an easy country Christmas, now, 05 Dec 2004
There are a lot worse albums around than this easy-going collection of country & western versions of favourite Christmas songs.

Opening with Trisha Yearwood's silky-smooth version of "The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting...)" it does lull anyone for whom C&W is not their favourite cup of meat into a false sense of security. Even Loretta Lynn does second cut, "White Christmas", no harm, and Lee Greenwood's "Let It Snow..." is as straight as a bean pole. Reba McEntire's twangy soprano on track four is where the serious stuff starts, and it doesn't look back from there on, with plenty of steel guitars and thick Nashville accents following.

The likes of Yearwood, McEntire and Greenwood have two tracks each, as do Barbara Mandrell, Steve Wariner and Ernest Tubb. You'll gather from these names that we're talking country & western establishment here, none of the feisty, pop/rock influenced stars of the 90s - unfortunately the booklet is short on information so you can't tell exactly when some of these were recorded, but Tubb goes back to the early 1950s, sounding very Hank Williams and "The Last Picture Show". I guess most of them are 1970s/1980s, though, and sound quality is generally good.

The pace is easy throughout - the closest they get to breaking sweat is a little bluegrass square dance from Bill Monroe ("Christmas Time's A Coming") and Ray Stevens' "Greatest Little Christmas Ever Wuz". All the usual Christmas songs are covered, plus some less familiar, and the only carols aired are in a medley, by Steve Wariner, as the closing track. Curiously, there are two versions of "Blue Christmas", one by Ernest Tubb (who also does "Rudolph...") and the other, not much more recent, by Webb Pierce.

It's all clean, wholesome, easy listening, and whiles away just over an hour - can't fault it.

Come on Anytime, 27 Dec 2003
I've listened to Christmas albums by a Soul luminary (Al Green), the King of Rock and Soul (Solomon Burke) doing Gospel, the greatest band ever groovin' away (Booker T. & the MGs), and am, as most folks, very familiar with all the traditional Yuletide jingles done by various artists since the dawn of Rock 'N Roll, but this one is the best, and by far the most accessible, of them all.

After hearing Yoakam perform a stupendous working of the great "I'll Be Home For Christmas" on television, I knew I had to get this album. Lee Thornburg's great horn arrangements (right up Wayne Jackson's and Andrew Love's [Stax's Memphis Horns] alley), and typically superb work from Skip Edwards (B-3 organ) and guitarist/producer Pete Anderson, and of course Yoakam's crooning, made this the new definitive version of the classic. This great and unforced Southern Soul feel was totally unique in 1997, and still is today. Nothing else on the album goes in this direction. But that's okay.

Opening and closing with two excellent original numbers, what Dwight Yoakam does with the eight time tested (or time wearied) standards is something I've never heard anyone else do. There just doesn't seem to be a throw away here to be found; all are extremely interesting. He explores several different styles of music, keeping the listener on his or her toes and anxious to find out what he'll do next. This is truly a showcase for one of the greatest instruments in music, the vocals of Dwight Yoakam.

From the fascinating "Away In a Manger" (so darn authentic, you'll think it was recorded pre-Hank Williams!) to the great rockin' remake of Chuck Berry's "Run Run Rudolph", Dwight and these fantastic musicians turn out a classic collection that everyone, Country fan or not, should own.

Forget the fact that these are Christmas tunes, and that all but two are Yoakam originals. This is a stunning album. And though you may have heard this said before, trust me, you can play this good and loud in July and it's just as great as on Christmas morning.

Why??, 09 Dec 2000
Quite why Yoakam had to ruin his set of brilliant albums with this Christmas album is beyond belief. I have nearly all his records from "Guitars, Cadalacs, Etc." to his new acoustic collection and they are all wonderful. This album is Dwight Yoakam at the lowest point in his career so far.

Following The Key, Gill's hardest country album to date, the Christmas album Breath of Heaven turns so far in the other direction it hardly seems like the same man's work. Don't expect steel guitar and fiddles here: This is pure symphonic pop and a kind of ode to the cinematic string arrangements--not of Nashville, but of Nelson Riddle, or the classic seasonal recordings of Bing Crosby. The selection is tasteful if conservative, though Gill sings every chestnut expertly and even digs a bit deeper on the religious material. The only surprise is the Amy Grant-composed title cut, the album's one undeniably soulful moment. If you're looking for lush and easy-swinging holiday mood music, brimming with the sentiments of the season, you've found it. --Roy Francis Kasten

Y'all have an easy country Christmas, now, 05 Dec 2004
There are a lot worse albums around than this easy-going collection of country & western versions of favourite Christmas songs.

Opening with Trisha Yearwood's silky-smooth version of "The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting...)" it does lull anyone for whom C&W is not their favourite cup of meat into a false sense of security. Even Loretta Lynn does second cut, "White Christmas", no harm, and Lee Greenwood's "Let It Snow..." is as straight as a bean pole. Reba McEntire's twangy soprano on track four is where the serious stuff starts, and it doesn't look back from there on, with plenty of steel guitars and thick Nashville accents following.

The likes of Yearwood, McEntire and Greenwood have two tracks each, as do Barbara Mandrell, Steve Wariner and Ernest Tubb. You'll gather from these names that we're talking country & western establishment here, none of the feisty, pop/rock influenced stars of the 90s - unfortunately the booklet is short on information so you can't tell exactly when some of these were recorded, but Tubb goes back to the early 1950s, sounding very Hank Williams and "The Last Picture Show". I guess most of them are 1970s/1980s, though, and sound quality is generally good.

The pace is easy throughout - the closest they get to breaking sweat is a little bluegrass square dance from Bill Monroe ("Christmas Time's A Coming") and Ray Stevens' "Greatest Little Christmas Ever Wuz". All the usual Christmas songs are covered, plus some less familiar, and the only carols aired are in a medley, by Steve Wariner, as the closing track. Curiously, there are two versions of "Blue Christmas", one by Ernest Tubb (who also does "Rudolph...") and the other, not much more recent, by Webb Pierce.

It's all clean, wholesome, easy listening, and whiles away just over an hour - can't fault it.

Come on Anytime, 27 Dec 2003
I've listened to Christmas albums by a Soul luminary (Al Green), the King of Rock and Soul (Solomon Burke) doing Gospel, the greatest band ever groovin' away (Booker T. & the MGs), and am, as most folks, very familiar with all the traditional Yuletide jingles done by various artists since the dawn of Rock 'N Roll, but this one is the best, and by far the most accessible, of them all.

After hearing Yoakam perform a stupendous working of the great "I'll Be Home For Christmas" on television, I knew I had to get this album. Lee Thornburg's great horn arrangements (right up Wayne Jackson's and Andrew Love's [Stax's Memphis Horns] alley), and typically superb work from Skip Edwards (B-3 organ) and guitarist/producer Pete Anderson, and of course Yoakam's crooning, made this the new definitive version of the classic. This great and unforced Southern Soul feel was totally unique in 1997, and still is today. Nothing else on the album goes in this direction. But that's okay.

Opening and closing with two excellent original numbers, what Dwight Yoakam does with the eight time tested (or time wearied) standards is something I've never heard anyone else do. There just doesn't seem to be a throw away here to be found; all are extremely interesting. He explores several different styles of music, keeping the listener on his or her toes and anxious to find out what he'll do next. This is truly a showcase for one of the greatest instruments in music, the vocals of Dwight Yoakam.

From the fascinating "Away In a Manger" (so darn authentic, you'll think it was recorded pre-Hank Williams!) to the great rockin' remake of Chuck Berry's "Run Run Rudolph", Dwight and these fantastic musicians turn out a classic collection that everyone, Country fan or not, should own.

Forget the fact that these are Christmas tunes, and that all but two are Yoakam originals. This is a stunning album. And though you may have heard this said before, trust me, you can play this good and loud in July and it's just as great as on Christmas morning.

Why??, 09 Dec 2000
Quite why Yoakam had to ruin his set of brilliant albums with this Christmas album is beyond belief. I have nearly all his records from "Guitars, Cadalacs, Etc." to his new acoustic collection and they are all wonderful. This album is Dwight Yoakam at the lowest point in his career so far.

Country singer Vince uses orchestra for Christmas album, 15 Nov 2005
Vince, with is high tenor voice, is one of the finest singers that country music has ever poroduced - however, this album is not a country album. It is a wonderful Christmas album that should appeal to fans of easy-listening music by the likes of Andy Williams and others.

This was Vince's second Christmas album and (like the first) Vince sticks mainly to famous songs, being careful to avoid those that he included on his earlier album (Let there be peace on earth). The only unusual songs here are the title track (written by Amy Grant, who eventually married him and who has recorded three brilliant Christmas albums of her own), It's the most wonderful time of the year (which doesn't appear on Christmas albums as often as it deserves) and A cradle in Bethlehem (another excellent song that could do with greater exposure).

Vince is in superb voice throughout with the orchestra providing tasteful backing on every track. So, once you get over any initial surprise at hearing Vince supported by an orchestra instead of Nashville musicians, this album is exactly what you'd expect - brilliant.

Following The Key, Gill's hardest country album to date, the Christmas album Breath of Heaven turns so far in the other direction it hardly seems like the same man's work. Don't expect steel guitar and fiddles here: This is pure symphonic pop and a kind of ode to the cinematic string arrangements--not of Nashville, but of Nelson Riddle, or the classic seasonal recordings of Bing Crosby. The selection is tasteful if conservative, though Gill sings every chestnut expertly and even digs a bit deeper on the religious material. The only surprise is the Amy Grant-composed title cut, the album's one undeniably soulful moment. If you're looking for lush and easy-swinging holiday mood music, brimming with the sentiments of the season, you've found it. --Roy Francis Kasten

Y'all have an easy country Christmas, now, 05 Dec 2004
There are a lot worse albums around than this easy-going collection of country & western versions of favourite Christmas songs.

Opening with Trisha Yearwood's silky-smooth version of "The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting...)" it does lull anyone for whom C&W is not their favourite cup of meat into a false sense of security. Even Loretta Lynn does second cut, "White Christmas", no harm, and Lee Greenwood's "Let It Snow..." is as straight as a bean pole. Reba McEntire's twangy soprano on track four is where the serious stuff starts, and it doesn't look back from there on, with plenty of steel guitars and thick Nashville accents following.

The likes of Yearwood, McEntire and Greenwood have two tracks each, as do Barbara Mandrell, Steve Wariner and Ernest Tubb. You'll gather from these names that we're talking country & western establishment here, none of the feisty, pop/rock influenced stars of the 90s - unfortunately the booklet is short on information so you can't tell exactly when some of these were recorded, but Tubb goes back to the early 1950s, sounding very Hank Williams and "The Last Picture Show". I guess most of them are 1970s/1980s, though, and sound quality is generally good.

The pace is easy throughout - the closest they get to breaking sweat is a little bluegrass square dance from Bill Monroe ("Christmas Time's A Coming") and Ray Stevens' "Greatest Little Christmas Ever Wuz". All the usual Christmas songs are covered, plus some less familiar, and the only carols aired are in a medley, by Steve Wariner, as the closing track. Curiously, there are two versions of "Blue Christmas", one by Ernest Tubb (who also does "Rudolph...") and the other, not much more recent, by Webb Pierce.

It's all clean, wholesome, easy listening, and whiles away just over an hour - can't fault it.

Come on Anytime, 27 Dec 2003
I've listened to Christmas albums by a Soul luminary (Al Green), the King of Rock and Soul (Solomon Burke) doing Gospel, the greatest band ever groovin' away (Booker T. & the MGs), and am, as most folks, very familiar with all the traditional Yuletide jingles done by various artists since the dawn of Rock 'N Roll, but this one is the best, and by far the most accessible, of them all.

After hearing Yoakam perform a stupendous working of the great "I'll Be Home For Christmas" on television, I knew I had to get this album. Lee Thornburg's great horn arrangements (right up Wayne Jackson's and Andrew Love's [Stax's Memphis Horns] alley), and typically superb work from Skip Edwards (B-3 organ) and guitarist/producer Pete Anderson, and of course Yoakam's crooning, made this the new definitive version of the classic. This great and unforced Southern Soul feel was totally unique in 1997, and still is today. Nothing else on the album goes in this direction. But that's okay.

Opening and closing with two excellent original numbers, what Dwight Yoakam does with the eight time tested (or time wearied) standards is something I've never heard anyone else do. There just doesn't seem to be a throw away here to be found; all are extremely interesting. He explores several different styles of music, keeping the listener on his or her toes and anxious to find out what he'll do next. This is truly a showcase for one of the greatest instruments in music, the vocals of Dwight Yoakam.

From the fascinating "Away In a Manger" (so darn authentic, you'll think it was recorded pre-Hank Williams!) to the great rockin' remake of Chuck Berry's "Run Run Rudolph", Dwight and these fantastic musicians turn out a classic collection that everyone, Country fan or not, should own.

Forget the fact that these are Christmas tunes, and that all but two are Yoakam originals. This is a stunning album. And though you may have heard this said before, trust me, you can play this good and loud in July and it's just as great as on Christmas morning.

Why??, 09 Dec 2000
Quite why Yoakam had to ruin his set of brilliant albums with this Christmas album is beyond belief. I have nearly all his records from "Guitars, Cadalacs, Etc." to his new acoustic collection and they are all wonderful. This album is Dwight Yoakam at the lowest point in his career so far.

Country singer Vince uses orchestra for Christmas album, 15 Nov 2005
Vince, with is high tenor voice, is one of the finest singers that country music has ever poroduced - however, this album is not a country album. It is a wonderful Christmas album that should appeal to fans of easy-listening music by the likes of Andy Williams and others.

This was Vince's second Christmas album and (like the first) Vince sticks mainly to famous songs, being careful to avoid those that he included on his earlier album (Let there be peace on earth). The only unusual songs here are the title track (written by Amy Grant, who eventually married him and who has recorded three brilliant Christmas albums of her own), It's the most wonderful time of the year (which doesn't appear on Christmas albums as often as it deserves) and A cradle in Bethlehem (another excellent song that could do with greater exposure).

Vince is in superb voice throughout with the orchestra providing tasteful backing on every track. So, once you get over any initial surprise at hearing Vince supported by an orchestra instead of Nashville musicians, this album is exactly what you'd expect - brilliant.

Country singer Vince uses orchestra for Christmas album, 15 Nov 2005
Vince, with is high tenor voice, is one of the finest singers that country music has ever poroduced - however, this album is not a country album. It is a wonderful Christmas album that should appeal to fans of easy-listening music by the likes of Andy Williams and others.

This was Vince's second Christmas album and (like the first) Vince sticks mainly to famous songs, being careful to avoid those that he included on his earlier album (Let there be peace on earth). The only unusual songs here are the title track (written by Amy Grant, who eventually married him and who has recorded three brilliant Christmas albums of her own), It's the most wonderful time of the year (which doesn't appear on Christmas albums as often as it deserves) and A cradle in Bethlehem (another excellent song that could do with greater exposure).

Vince is in superb voice throughout with the orchestra providing tasteful backing on every track. So, once you get over any initial surprise at hearing Vince supported by an orchestra instead of Nashville musicians, this album is exactly what you'd expect - brilliant.

Y'all have an easy country Christmas, now, 05 Dec 2004
There are a lot worse albums around than this easy-going collection of country & western versions of favourite Christmas songs.

Opening with Trisha Yearwood's silky-smooth version of "The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting...)" it does lull anyone for whom C&W is not their favourite cup of meat into a false sense of security. Even Loretta Lynn does second cut, "White Christmas", no harm, and Lee Greenwood's "Let It Snow..." is as straight as a bean pole. Reba McEntire's twangy soprano on track four is where the serious stuff starts, and it doesn't look back from there on, with plenty of steel guitars and thick Nashville accents following.

The likes of Yearwood, McEntire and Greenwood have two tracks each, as do Barbara Mandrell, Steve Wariner and Ernest Tubb. You'll gather from these names that we're talking country & western establishment here, none of the feisty, pop/rock influenced stars of the 90s - unfortunately the booklet is short on information so you can't tell exactly when some of these were recorded, but Tubb goes back to the early 1950s, sounding very Hank Williams and "The Last Picture Show". I guess most of them are 1970s/1980s, though, and sound quality is generally good.

The pace is easy throughout - the closest they get to breaking sweat is a little bluegrass square dance from Bill Monroe ("Christmas Time's A Coming") and Ray Stevens' "Greatest Little Christmas Ever Wuz". All the usual Christmas songs are covered, plus some less familiar, and the only carols aired are in a medley, by Steve Wariner, as the closing track. Curiously, there are two versions of "Blue Christmas", one by Ernest Tubb (who also does "Rudolph...") and the other, not much more recent, by Webb Pierce.

It's all clean, wholesome, easy listening, and whiles away just over an hour - can't fault it.

Come on Anytime, 27 Dec 2003
I've listened to Christmas albums by a Soul luminary (Al Green), the King of Rock and Soul (Solomon Burke) doing Gospel, the greatest band ever groovin' away (Booker T. & the MGs), and am, as most folks, very familiar with all the traditional Yuletide jingles done by various artists since the dawn of Rock 'N Roll, but this one is the best, and by far the most accessible, of them all.

After hearing Yoakam perform a stupendous working of the great "I'll Be Home For Christmas" on television, I knew I had to get this album. Lee Thornburg's great horn arrangements (right up Wayne Jackson's and Andrew Love's [Stax's Memphis Horns] alley), and typically superb work from Skip Edwards (B-3 organ) and guitarist/producer Pete Anderson, and of course Yoakam's crooning, made this the new definitive version of the classic. This great and unforced Southern Soul feel was totally unique in 1997, and still is today. Nothing else on the album goes in this direction. But that's okay.

Opening and closing with two excellent original numbers, what Dwight Yoakam does with the eight time tested (or time wearied) standards is something I've never heard anyone else do. There just doesn't seem to be a throw away here to be found; all are extremely interesting. He explores several different styles of music, keeping the listener on his or her toes and anxious to find out what he'll do next. This is truly a showcase for one of the greatest instruments in music, the vocals of Dwight Yoakam.

From the fascinating "Away In a Manger" (so darn authentic, you'll think it was recorded pre-Hank Williams!) to the great rockin' remake of Chuck Berry's "Run Run Rudolph", Dwight and these fantastic musicians turn out a classic collection that everyone, Country fan or not, should own.

Forget the fact that these are Christmas tunes, and that all but two are Yoakam originals. This is a stunning album. And though you may have heard this said before, trust me, you can play this good and loud in July and it's just as great as on Christmas morning.

Why??, 09 Dec 2000
Quite why Yoakam had to ruin his set of brilliant albums with this Christmas album is beyond belief. I have nearly all his records from "Guitars, Cadalacs, Etc." to his new acoustic collection and they are all wonderful. This album is Dwight Yoakam at the lowest point in his career so far.

Country singer Vince uses orchestra for Christmas album, 15 Nov 2005
Vince, with is high tenor voice, is one of the finest singers that country music has ever poroduced - however, this album is not a country album. It is a wonderful Christmas album that should appeal to fans of easy-listening music by the likes of Andy Williams and others.

This was Vince's second Christmas album and (like the first) Vince sticks mainly to famous songs, being careful to avoid those that he included on his earlier album (Let there be peace on earth). The only unusual songs here are the title track (written by Amy Grant, who eventually married him and who has recorded three brilliant Christmas albums of her own), It's the most wonderful time of the year (which doesn't appear on Christmas albums as often as it deserves) and A cradle in Bethlehem (another excellent song that could do with greater exposure).

Vince is in superb voice throughout with the orchestra providing tasteful backing on every track. So, once you get over any initial surprise at hearing Vince supported by an orchestra instead of Nashville musicians, this album is exactly what you'd expect - brilliant.

Country singer Vince uses orchestra for Christmas album, 15 Nov 2005
Vince, with is high tenor voice, is one of the finest singers that country music has ever poroduced - however, this album is not a country album. It is a wonderful Christmas album that should appeal to fans of easy-listening music by the likes of Andy Williams and others.

This was Vince's second Christmas album and (like the first) Vince sticks mainly to famous songs, being careful to avoid those that he included on his earlier album (Let there be peace on earth). The only unusual songs here are the title track (written by Amy Grant, who eventually married him and who has recorded three brilliant Christmas albums of her own), It's the most wonderful time of the year (which doesn't appear on Christmas albums as often as it deserves) and A cradle in Bethlehem (another excellent song that could do with greater exposure).

Vince is in superb voice throughout with the orchestra providing tasteful backing on every track. So, once you get over any initial surprise at hearing Vince supported by an orchestra instead of Nashville musicians, this album is exactly what you'd expect - brilliant.

Great Listening, 09 Oct 2003
I have had this album for a number of years and thoroughly recommend it to anyone whether you are a Johnny Coppin fan or not. If you are not a fan and listen to it I'm sure that his voice and style of singing will soon win you over. Its an album that my wife and I not only play at Christmas time but through out the year. We find that no two tracks are alike and they are all first class. Johnny is one of those rare singers that sound exactly the same on stage as he does on his recordings so I'm sure that you will not be disappointed if you go a head and purchase this album and I'm sure that you will then recommend it to all your friends.

Thank you

Denis Byrom

Y'all have an easy country Christmas, now, 05 Dec 2004
There are a lot worse albums around than this easy-going collection of country & western versions of favourite Christmas songs.

Opening with Trisha Yearwood's silky-smooth version of "The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting...)" it does lull anyone for whom C&W is not their favourite cup of meat into a false sense of security. Even Loretta Lynn does second cut, "White Christmas", no harm, and Lee Greenwood's "Let It Snow..." is as straight as a bean pole. Reba McEntire's twangy soprano on track four is where the serious stuff starts, and it doesn't look back from there on, with plenty of steel guitars and thick Nashville accents following.

The likes of Yearwood, McEntire and Greenwood have two tracks each, as do Barbara Mandrell, Steve Wariner and Ernest Tubb. You'll gather from these names that we're talking country & western establishment here, none of the feisty, pop/rock influenced stars of the 90s - unfortunately the booklet is short on information so you can't tell exactly when some of these were recorded, but Tubb goes back to the early 1950s, sounding very Hank Williams and "The Last Picture Show". I guess most of them are 1970s/1980s, though, and sound quality is generally good.

The pace is easy throughout - the closest they get to breaking sweat is a little bluegrass square dance from Bill Monroe ("Christmas Time's A Coming") and Ray Stevens' "Greatest Little Christmas Ever Wuz". All the usual Christmas songs are covered, plus some less familiar, and the only carols aired are in a medley, by Steve Wariner, as the closing track. Curiously, there are two versions of "Blue Christmas", one by Ernest Tubb (who also does "Rudolph...") and the other, not much more recent, by Webb Pierce.

It's all clean, wholesome, easy listening, and whiles away just over an hour - can't fault it.

Come on Anytime, 27 Dec 2003
I've listened to Christmas albums by a Soul luminary (Al Green), the King of Rock and Soul (Solomon Burke) doing Gospel, the greatest band ever groovin' away (Booker T. & the MGs), and am, as most folks, very familiar with all the traditional Yuletide jingles done by various artists since the dawn of Rock 'N Roll, but this one is the best, and by far the most accessible, of them all.

After hearing Yoakam perform a stupendous working of the great "I'll Be Home For Christmas" on television, I knew I had to get this album. Lee Thornburg's great horn arrangements (right up Wayne Jackson's and Andrew Love's [Stax's Memphis Horns] alley), and typically superb work from Skip Edwards (B-3 organ) and guitarist/producer Pete Anderson, and of course Yoakam's crooning, made this the new definitive version of the classic. This great and unforced Southern Soul feel was totally unique in 1997, and still is today. Nothing else on the album goes in this direction. But that's okay.

Opening and closing with two excellent original numbers, what Dwight Yoakam does with the eight time tested (or time wearied) standards is something I've never heard anyone else do. There just doesn't seem to be a throw away here to be found; all are extremely interesting. He explores several different styles of music, keeping the listener on his or her toes and anxious to find out what he'll do next. This is truly a showcase for one of the greatest instruments in music, the vocals of Dwight Yoakam.

From the fascinating "Away In a Manger" (so darn authentic, you'll think it was recorded pre-Hank Williams!) to the great rockin' remake of Chuck Berry's "Run Run Rudolph", Dwight and these fantastic musicians turn out a classic collection that everyone, Country fan or not, should own.

Forget the fact that these are Christmas tunes, and that all but two are Yoakam originals. This is a stunning album. And though you may have heard this said before, trust me, you can play this good and loud in July and it's just as great as on Christmas morning.

Why??, 09 Dec 2000
Quite why Yoakam had to ruin his set of brilliant albums with this Christmas album is beyond belief. I have nearly all his records from "Guitars, Cadalacs, Etc." to his new acoustic collection and they are all wonderful. This album is Dwight Yoakam at the lowest point in his career so far.

Country singer Vince uses orchestra for Christmas album, 15 Nov 2005
Vince, with is high tenor voice, is one of the finest singers that country music has ever poroduced - however, this album is not a country album. It is a wonderful Christmas album that should appeal to fans of easy-listening music by the likes of Andy Williams and others.

This was Vince's second Christmas album and (like the first) Vince sticks mainly to famous songs, being careful to avoid those that he included on his earlier album (Let there be peace on earth). The only unusual songs here are the title track (written by Amy Grant, who eventually married him and who has recorded three brilliant Christmas albums of her own), It's the most wonderful time of the year (which doesn't appear on Christmas albums as often as it deserves) and A cradle in Bethlehem (another excellent song that could do with greater exposure).

Vince is in superb voice throughout with the orchestra providing tasteful backing on every track. So, once you get over any initial surprise at hearing Vince supported by an orchestra instead of Nashville musicians, this album is exactly what you'd expect - brilliant.

Country singer Vince uses orchestra for Christmas album, 15 Nov 2005
Vince, with is high tenor voice, is one of the finest singers that country music has ever poroduced - however, this album is not a country album. It is a wonderful Christmas album that should appeal to fans of easy-listening music by the likes of Andy Williams and others.

This was Vince's second Christmas album and (like the first) Vince sticks mainly to famous songs, being careful to avoid those that he included on his earlier album (Let there be peace on earth). The only unusual songs here are the title track (written by Amy Grant, who eventually married him and who has recorded three brilliant Christmas albums of her own), It's the most wonderful time of the year (which doesn't appear on Christmas albums as often as it deserves) and A cradle in Bethlehem (another excellent song that could do with greater exposure).

Vince is in superb voice throughout with the orchestra providing tasteful backing on every track. So, once you get over any initial surprise at hearing Vince supported by an orchestra instead of Nashville musicians, this album is exactly what you'd expect - brilliant.

Great Listening, 09 Oct 2003
I have had this album for a number of years and thoroughly recommend it to anyone whether you are a Johnny Coppin fan or not. If you are not a fan and listen to it I'm sure that his voice and style of singing will soon win you over. Its an album that my wife and I not only play at Christmas time but through out the year. We find that no two tracks are alike and they are all first class. Johnny is one of those rare singers that sound exactly the same on stage as he does on his recordings so I'm sure that you will not be disappointed if you go a head and purchase this album and I'm sure that you will then recommend it to all your friends.

Thank you

Denis Byrom

A Magical and Memorable Concert, 01 Nov 2003
This DVD is a must for all Lesley fans, and perhaps for others too. It is most certainly not your typical Christmas Musical Extravaganza, of which one often feels weary.
Lesley has chosen a wide range of musical styles, and there are excellent new arrangements of well known favourites. The end product is a live performance which is stunning in all respects. Guests, stage sets,and variety of songs,are a joy to the ears. I was particularly impressed by several items in the concert where Lesley "spread her wings" even more. The singing and musical arrangement of 'On holy ground', was deeply moving and sung with great passion, so much so,I found it 'spine tingling'.Lesley and Guy's performances of 'Sound the trumpet',and'Baby its cold outside',equally superb in a very different musical genre.From start to finish, this concert recording, keeps you spellbound. It is full of surprises, and never fails to move and entertain.
When you reach the end, you just want to hear and watch it, all over again.
Finally, not only is this DVD wonderful to listen to, it is also
visually excellent. The colourful sets, lighting and costumes, Lesley's is as sparkling as she herself, all add to the 'magic'.I know I will assign this album to my all time favourites.Lesley just gets better and better, without a doubt, I consider it an all round seasonal winner.
SC.

Randy Travis's throaty baritone glows like the embers of a Yule log all year long, so this selection of old and new Christmas favorites is every bit as cozy as a rug and a hot toddy by the fire. The Nashville all-stars backing him on this 1989 release make the classics (including Willie Nelson's oft-covered "Pretty Paper") sound sweet, but the real treats here are Travis's own "How Do I Wrap My Heart for Christmas" (co-written with hitmaker Paul Overstreet) and a pair of tunes that put an ironic twist on familiar titles, "Oh, What a Silent Night" and the wonderful "White Christmas Makes Me Blue." --Michael Ruby

Y'all have an easy country Christmas, now, 05 Dec 2004
There are a lot worse albums around than this easy-going collection of country & western versions of favourite Christmas songs.

Opening with Trisha Yearwood's silky-smooth version of "The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting...)" it does lull anyone for whom C&W is not their favourite cup of meat into a false sense of security. Even Loretta Lynn does second cut, "White Christmas", no harm, and Lee Greenwood's "Let It Snow..." is as straight as a bean pole. Reba McEntire's twangy soprano on track four is where the serious stuff starts, and it doesn't look back from there on, with plenty of steel guitars and thick Nashville accents following.

The likes of Yearwood, McEntire and Greenwood have two tracks each, as do Barbara Mandrell, Steve Wariner and Ernest Tubb. You'll gather from these names that we're talking country & western establishment here, none of the feisty, pop/rock influenced stars of the 90s - unfortunately the booklet is short on information so you can't tell exactly when some of these were recorded, but Tubb goes back to the early 1950s, sounding very Hank Williams and "The Last Picture Show". I guess most of them are 1970s/1980s, though, and sound quality is generally good.

The pace is easy throughout - the closest they get to breaking sweat is a little bluegrass square dance from Bill Monroe ("Christmas Time's A Coming") and Ray Stevens' "Greatest Little Christmas Ever Wuz". All the usual Christmas songs are covered, plus some less familiar, and the only carols aired are in a medley, by Steve Wariner, as the closing track. Curiously, there are two versions of "Blue Christmas", one by Ernest Tubb (who also does "Rudolph...") and the other, not much more recent, by Webb Pierce.

It's all clean, wholesome, easy listening, and whiles away just over an hour - can't fault it.

Come on Anytime, 27 Dec 2003
I've listened to Christmas albums by a Soul luminary (Al Green), the King of Rock and Soul (Solomon Burke) doing Gospel, the greatest band ever groovin' away (Booker T. & the MGs), and am, as most folks, very familiar with all the traditional Yuletide jingles done by various artists since the dawn of Rock 'N Roll, but this one is the best, and by far the most accessible, of them all.

After hearing Yoakam perform a stupendous working of the great "I'll Be Home For Christmas" on television, I knew I had to get this album. Lee Thornburg's great horn arrangements (right up Wayne Jackson's and Andrew Love's [Stax's Memphis Horns] alley), and typically superb work from Skip Edwards (B-3 organ) and guitarist/producer Pete Anderson, and of course Yoakam's crooning, made this the new definitive version of the classic. This great and unforced Southern Soul feel was totally unique in 1997, and still is today. Nothing else on the album goes in this direction. But that's okay.

Opening and closing with two excellent original numbers, what Dwight Yoakam does with the eight time tested (or time wearied) standards is something I've never heard anyone else do. There just doesn't seem to be a throw away here to be found; all are extremely interesting. He explores several different styles of music, keeping the listener on his or her toes and anxious to find out what he'll do next. This is truly a showcase for one of the greatest instruments in music, the vocals of Dwight Yoakam.

From the fascinating "Away In a Manger" (so darn authentic, you'll think it was recorded pre-Hank Williams!) to the great rockin' remake of Chuck Berry's "Run Run Rudolph", Dwight and these fantastic musicians turn out a classic collection that everyone, Country fan or not, should own.

Forget the fact that these are Christmas tunes, and that all but two are Yoakam originals. This is a stunning album. And though you may have heard this said before, trust me, you can play this good and loud in July and it's just as great as on Christmas morning.

Why??, 09 Dec 2000
Quite why Yoakam had to ruin his set of brilliant albums with this Christmas album is beyond belief. I have nearly all his records from "Guitars, Cadalacs, Etc." to his new acoustic collection and they are all wonderful. This album is Dwight Yoakam at the lowest point in his career so far.

Country singer Vince uses orchestra for Christmas album, 15 Nov 2005
Vince, with is high tenor voice, is one of the finest singers that country music has ever poroduced - however, this album is not a country album. It is a wonderful Christmas album that should appeal to fans of easy-listening music by the likes of Andy Williams and others.

This was Vince's second Christmas album and (like the first) Vince sticks mainly to famous songs, being careful to avoid those that he included on his earlier album (Let there be peace on earth). The only unusual songs here are the title track (written by Amy Grant, who eventually married him and who has recorded three brilliant Christmas albums of her own), It's the most wonderful time of the year (which doesn't appear on Christmas albums as often as it deserves) and A cradle in Bethlehem (another excellent song that could do with greater exposure).

Vince is in superb voice throughout with the orchestra providing tasteful backing on every track. So, once you get over any initial surprise at hearing Vince supported by an orchestra instead of Nashville musicians, this album is exactly what you'd expect - brilliant.

Country singer Vince uses orchestra for Christmas album, 15 Nov 2005
Vince, with is high tenor voice, is one of the finest singers that country music has ever poroduced - however, this album is not a country album. It is a wonderful Christmas album that should appeal to fans of easy-listening music by the likes of Andy Williams and others.

This was Vince's second Christmas album and (like the first) Vince sticks mainly to famous songs, being careful to avoid those that he included on his earlier album (Let there be peace on earth). The only unusual songs here are the title track (written by Amy Grant, who eventually married him and who has recorded three brilliant Christmas albums of her own), It's the most wonderful time of the year (which doesn't appear on Christmas albums as often as it deserves) and A cradle in Bethlehem (another excellent song that could do with greater exposure).

Vince is in superb voice throughout with the orchestra providing tasteful backing on every track. So, once you get over any initial surprise at hearing Vince supported by an orchestra instead of Nashville musicians, this album is exactly what you'd expect - brilliant.

Great Listening, 09 Oct 2003
I have had this album for a number of years and thoroughly recommend it to anyone whether you are a Johnny Coppin fan or not. If you are not a fan and listen to it I'm sure that his voice and style of singing will soon win you over. Its an album that my wife and I not only play at Christmas time but through out the year. We find that no two tracks are alike and they are all first class. Johnny is one of those rare singers that sound exactly the same on stage as he does on his recordings so I'm sure that you will not be disappointed if you go a head and purchase this album and I'm sure that you will then recommend it to all your friends.

Thank you

Denis Byrom

A Magical and Memorable Concert, 01 Nov 2003
This DVD is a must for all Lesley fans, and perhaps for others too. It is most certainly not your typical Christmas Musical Extravaganza, of which one often feels weary.
Lesley has chosen a wide range of musical styles, and there are excellent new arrangements of well known favourites. The end product is a live performance which is stunning in all respects. Guests, stage sets,and variety of songs,are a joy to the ears. I was particularly impressed by several items in the concert where Lesley "spread her wings" even more. The singing and musical arrangement of 'On holy ground', was deeply moving and sung with great passion, so much so,I found it 'spine tingling'.Lesley and Guy's performances of 'Sound the trumpet',and'Baby its cold outside',equally superb in a very different musical genre.From start to finish, this concert recording, keeps you spellbound. It is full of surprises, and never fails to move and entertain.
When you reach the end, you just want to hear and watch it, all over again.
Finally, not only is this DVD wonderful to listen to, it is also
visually excellent. The colourful sets, lighting and costumes, Lesley's is as sparkling as she herself, all add to the 'magic'.I know I will assign this album to my all time favourites.Lesley just gets better and better, without a doubt, I consider it an all round seasonal winner.
SC.

A mellow traditional country Christmas album, 25 Oct 2003
This was recorded by Randy in the late eighties, at the peak of his popularity. It is a well-balanced mix of originals and standards - five of each.

The five originals are made up of two sad songs of lost love (White Christmas makes me blue and Oh what a silent night) and three happy songs (How do I wrap my heart up for Christmas?, Old time Christmas and my favorite track on the album, Meet me under the mistletoe).

The standards are well-chosen, including God rest ye merry gentlemen, perhaps the least-covered among them.

Even the happy songs never rise above mid-tempo, although that's just the style of the album and it works well. This is not a Christmas party album, but it is great for those moments when you can relax around a warm fire (as suggested by the closing song).

Y'all have an easy country Christmas, now, 05 Dec 2004
There are a lot worse albums around than this easy-going collection of country & western versions of favourite Christmas songs.

Opening with Trisha Yearwood's silky-smooth version of "The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting...)" it does lull anyone for whom C&W is not their favourite cup of meat into a false sense of security. Even Loretta Lynn does second cut, "White Christmas", no harm, and Lee Greenwood's "Let It Snow..." is as straight as a bean pole. Reba McEntire's twangy soprano on track four is where the serious stuff starts, and it doesn't look back from there on, with plenty of steel guitars and thick Nashville accents following.

The likes of Yearwood, McEntire and Greenwood have two tracks each, as do Barbara Mandrell, Steve Wariner and Ernest Tubb. You'll gather from these names that we're talking country & western establishment here, none of the feisty, pop/rock influenced stars of the 90s - unfortunately the booklet is short on information so you can't tell exactly when some of these were recorded, but Tubb goes back to the early 1950s, sounding very Hank Williams and "The Last Picture Show". I guess most of them are 1970s/1980s, though, and sound quality is generally good.

The pace is easy throughout - the closest they get to breaking sweat is a little bluegrass square dance from Bill Monroe ("Christmas Time's A Coming") and Ray Stevens' "Greatest Little Christmas Ever Wuz". All the usual Christmas songs are covered, plus some less familiar, and the only carols aired are in a medley, by Steve Wariner, as the closing track. Curiously, there are two versions of "Blue Christmas", one by Ernest Tubb (who also does "Rudolph...") and the other, not much more recent, by Webb Pierce.

It's all clean, wholesome, easy listening, and whiles away just over an hour - can't fault it.

Come on Anytime, 27 Dec 2003
I've listened to Christmas albums by a Soul luminary (Al Green), the King of Rock and Soul (Solomon Burke) doing Gospel, the greatest band ever groovin' away (Booker T. & the MGs), and am, as most folks, very familiar with all the traditional Yuletide jingles done by various artists since the dawn of Rock 'N Roll, but this one is the best, and by far the most accessible, of them all.

After hearing Yoakam perform a stupendous working of the great "I'll Be Home For Christmas" on television, I knew I had to get this album. Lee Thornburg's great horn arrangements (right up Wayne Jackson's and Andrew Love's [Stax's Memphis Horns] alley), and typically superb work from Skip Edwards (B-3 organ) and guitarist/producer Pete Anderson, and of course Yoakam's crooning, made this the new definitive version of the classic. This great and unforced Southern Soul feel was totally unique in 1997, and still is today. Nothing else on the album goes in this direction. But that's okay.

Opening and closing with two excellent original numbers, what Dwight Yoakam does with the eight time tested (or time wearied) standards is something I've never heard anyone else do. There just doesn't seem to be a throw away here to be found; all are extremely interesting. He explores several different styles of music, keeping the listener on his or her toes and anxious to find out what he'll do next. This is truly a showcase for one of the greatest instruments in music, the vocals of Dwight Yoakam.

From the fascinating "Away In a Manger" (so darn authentic, you'll think it was recorded pre-Hank Williams!) to the great rockin' remake of Chuck Berry's "Run Run Rudolph", Dwight and these fantastic musicians turn out a classic collection that everyone, Country fan or not, should own.

Forget the fact that these are Christmas tunes, and that all but two are Yoakam originals. This is a stunning album. And though you may have heard this said before, trust me, you can play this good and loud in July and it's just as great as on Christmas morning.

Why??, 09 Dec 2000
Quite why Yoakam had to ruin his set of brilliant albums with this Christmas album is beyond belief. I have nearly all his records from "Guitars, Cadalacs, Etc." to his new acoustic collection and they are all wonderful. This album is Dwight Yoakam at the lowest point in his career so far.

Country singer Vince uses orchestra for Christmas album, 15 Nov 2005
Vince, with is high tenor voice, is one of the finest singers that country music has ever poroduced - however, this album is not a country album. It is a wonderful Christmas album that should appeal to fans of easy-listening music by the likes of Andy Williams and others.

This was Vince's second Christmas album and (like the first) Vince sticks mainly to famous songs, being careful to avoid those that he included on his earlier album (Let there be peace on earth). The only unusual songs here are the title track (written by Amy Grant, who eventually married him and who has recorded three brilliant Christmas albums of her own), It's the most wonderful time of the year (which doesn't appear on Christmas albums as often as it deserves) and A cradle in Bethlehem (another excellent song that could do with greater exposure).

Vince is in superb voice throughout with the orchestra providing tasteful backing on every track. So, once you get over any initial surprise at hearing Vince supported by an orchestra instead of Nashville musicians, this album is exactly what you'd expect - brilliant.

Country singer Vince uses orchestra for Christmas album, 15 Nov 2005
Vince, with is high tenor voice, is one of the finest singers that country music has ever poroduced - however, this album is not a country album. It is a wonderful Christmas album that should appeal to fans of easy-listening music by the likes of Andy Williams and others.

This was Vince's second Christmas album and (like the first) Vince sticks mainly to famous songs, being careful to avoid those that he included on his earlier album (Let there be peace on earth). The only unusual songs here are the title track (written by Amy Grant, who eventually married him and who has recorded three brilliant Christmas albums of her own), It's the most wonderful time of the year (which doesn't appear on Christmas albums as often as it deserves) and A cradle in Bethlehem (another excellent song that could do with greater exposure).

Vince is in superb voice throughout with the orchestra providing tasteful backing on every track. So, once you get over any initial surprise at hearing Vince supported by an orchestra instead of Nashville musicians, this album is exactly what you'd expect - brilliant.

Great Listening, 09 Oct 2003
I have had this album for a number of years and thoroughly recommend it to anyone whether you are a Johnny Coppin fan or not. If you are not a fan and listen to it I'm sure that his voice and style of singing will soon win you over. Its an album that my wife and I not only play at Christmas time but through out the year. We find that no two tracks are alike and they are all first class. Johnny is one of those rare singers that sound exactly the same on stage as he does on his recordings so I'm sure that you will not be disappointed if you go a head and purchase this album and I'm sure that you will then recommend it to all your friends.

Thank you

Denis Byrom

A Magical and Memorable Concert, 01 Nov 2003
This DVD is a must for all Lesley fans, and perhaps for others too. It is most certainly not your typical Christmas Musical Extravaganza, of which one often feels weary.
Lesley has chosen a wide range of musical styles, and there are excellent new arrangements of well known favourites. The end product is a live performance which is stunning in all respects. Guests, stage sets,and variety of songs,are a joy to the ears. I was particularly impressed by several items in the concert where Lesley "spread her wings" even more. The singing and musical arrangement of 'On holy ground', was deeply moving and sung with great passion, so much so,I found it 'spine tingling'.Lesley and Guy's performances of 'Sound the trumpet',and'Baby its cold outside',equally superb in a very different musical genre.From start to finish, this concert recording, keeps you spellbound. It is full of surprises, and never fails to move and entertain.
When you reach the end, you just want to hear and watch it, all over again.
Finally, not only is this DVD wonderful to listen to, it is also
visually excellent. The colourful sets, lighting and costumes, Lesley's is as sparkling as she herself, all add to the 'magic'.I know I will assign this album to my all time favourites.Lesley just gets better and better, without a doubt, I consider it an all round seasonal winner.
SC.

A mellow traditional country Christmas album, 25 Oct 2003
This was recorded by Randy in the late eighties, at the peak of his popularity. It is a well-balanced mix of originals and standards - five of each.

The five originals are made up of two sad songs of lost love (White Christmas makes me blue and Oh what a silent night) and three happy songs (How do I wrap my heart up for Christmas?, Old time Christmas and my favorite track on the album, Meet me under the mistletoe).

The standards are well-chosen, including God rest ye merry gentlemen, perhaps the least-covered among them.

Even the happy songs never rise above mid-tempo, although that's just the style of the album and it works well. This is not a Christmas party album, but it is great for those moments when you can relax around a warm fire (as suggested by the closing song).

His first Christmas album, 21 Oct 2003
Kenny has recorded five Christmas albums – four solo and one with Dolly – but this was the first one he did. It includes an excellent mix of the familiar and the unfamiliar.

The most familiar songs here are White Christmas (the Bing Crosby classic), When a child is born (the song that gave Johnny Mathis his only UK number one hit), O holy night (one of the most popular carols) and My favorite things (originally sung by Julie Andrews in the Sound of Music).

Before you get to them, there are some great songs, of which Carol of the bells is a cover but the others might all be originals. Kenny must like Sweet little Jesus boy a lot – he re-recorded it for the Gift, one of his other Christmas albums, but I particularly like Kentucky homemade Christmas (about a poor family determined to have as good a time as they can) and Kids (about the people who enjoy Christmas most).

This was a great start to Kenny's career as a singer of Christmas music.

Y'all have an easy country Christmas, now, 05 Dec 2004
There are a lot worse albums around than this easy-going collection of country & western versions of favourite Christmas songs.

Opening with Trisha Yearwood's silky-smooth version of "The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting...)" it does lull anyone for whom C&W is not their favourite cup of meat into a false sense of security. Even Loretta Lynn does second cut, "White Christmas", no harm, and Lee Greenwood's "Let It Snow..." is as straight as a bean pole. Reba McEntire's twangy soprano on track four is where the serious stuff starts, and it doesn't look back from there on, with plenty of steel guitars and thick Nashville accents following.

The likes of Yearwood, McEntire and Greenwood have two tracks each, as do Barbara Mandrell, Steve Wariner and Ernest Tubb. You'll gather from these names that we're talking country & western establishment here, none of the feisty, pop/rock influenced stars of the 90s - unfortunately the booklet is short on information so you can't tell exactly when some of these were recorded, but Tubb goes back to the early 1950s, sounding very Hank Williams and "The Last Picture Show". I guess most of them are 1970s/1980s, though, and sound quality is generally good.

The pace is easy throughout - the closest they get to breaking sweat is a little bluegrass square dance from Bill Monroe ("Christmas Time's A Coming") and Ray Stevens' "Greatest Little Christmas Ever Wuz". All the usual Christmas songs are covered, plus some less familiar, and the only carols aired are in a medley, by Steve Wariner, as the closing track. Curiously, there are two versions of "Blue Christmas", one by Ernest Tubb (who also does "Rudolph...") and the other, not much more recent, by Webb Pierce.

It's all clean, wholesome, easy listening, and whiles away just over an hour - can't fault it.

Come on Anytime, 27 Dec 2003
I've listened to Christmas albums by a Soul luminary (Al Green), the King of Rock and Soul (Solomon Burke) doing Gospel, the greatest band ever groovin' away (Booker T. & the MGs), and am, as most folks, very familiar with all the traditional Yuletide jingles done by various artists since the dawn of Rock 'N Roll, but this one is the best, and by far the most accessible, of them all.

After hearing Yoakam perform a stupendous working of the great "I'll Be Home For Christmas" on television, I knew I had to get this album. Lee Thornburg's great horn arrangements (right up Wayne Jackson's and Andrew Love's [Stax's Memphis Horns] alley), and typically superb work from Skip Edwards (B-3 organ) and guitarist/producer Pete Anderson, and of course Yoakam's crooning, made this the new definitive version of the classic. This great and unforced Southern Soul feel was totally unique in 1997, and still is today. Nothing else on the album goes in this direction. But that's okay.

Opening and closing with two excellent original numbers, what Dwight Yoakam does with the eight time tested (or time wearied) standards is something I've never heard anyone else do. There just doesn't seem to be a throw away here to be found; all are extremely interesting. He explores several different styles of music, keeping the listener on his or her toes and anxious to find out what he'll do next. This is truly a showcase for one of the greatest instruments in music, the vocals of Dwight Yoakam.

From the fascinating "Away In a Manger" (so darn authentic, you'll think it was recorded pre-Hank Williams!) to the great rockin' remake of Chuck Berry's "Run Run Rudolph", Dwight and these fantastic musicians turn out a classic collection that everyone, Country fan or not, should own.

Forget the fact that these are Christmas tunes, and that all but two are Yoakam originals. This is a stunning album. And though you may have heard this said before, trust me, you can play this good and loud in July and it's just as great as on Christmas morning.

Why??, 09 Dec 2000
Quite why Yoakam had to ruin his set of brilliant albums with this Christmas album is beyond belief. I have nearly all his records from "Guitars, Cadalacs, Etc." to his new acoustic collection and they are all wonderful. This album is Dwight Yoakam at the lowest point in his career so far.

Country singer Vince uses orchestra for Christmas album, 15 Nov 2005
Vince, with is high tenor voice, is one of the finest singers that country music has ever poroduced - however, this album is not a country album. It is a wonderful Christmas album that should appeal to fans of easy-listening music by the likes of Andy Williams and others.

This was Vince's second Christmas album and (like the first) Vince sticks mainly to famous songs, being careful to avoid those that he included on his earlier album (Let there be peace on earth). The only unusual songs here are the title track (written by Amy Grant, who eventually married him and who has recorded three brilliant Christmas albums of her own), It's the most wonderful time of the year (which doesn't appear on Christmas albums as often as it deserves) and A cradle in Bethlehem (another excellent song that could do with greater exposure).

Vince is in superb voice throughout with the orchestra providing tasteful backing on every track. So, once you get over any initial surprise at hearing Vince supported by an orchestra instead of Nashville musicians, this album is exactly what you'd expect - brilliant.

Country singer Vince uses orchestra for Christmas album, 15 Nov 2005
Vince, with is high tenor voice, is one of the finest singers that country music has ever poroduced - however, this album is not a country album. It is a wonderful Christmas album that should appeal to fans of easy-listening music by the likes of Andy Williams and others.

This was Vince's second Christmas album and (like the first) Vince sticks mainly to famous songs, being careful to avoid those that he included on his earlier album (Let there be peace on earth). The only unusual songs here are the title track (written by Amy Grant, who eventually married him and who has recorded three brilliant Christmas albums of her own), It's the most wonderful time of the year (which doesn't appear on Christmas albums as often as it deserves) and A cradle in Bethlehem (another excellent song that could do with greater exposure).

Vince is in superb voice throughout with the orchestra providing tasteful backing on every track. So, once you get over any initial surprise at hearing Vince supported by an orchestra instead of Nashville musicians, this album is exactly what you'd expect - brilliant.

Great Listening, 09 Oct 2003
I have had this album for a number of years and thoroughly recommend it to anyone whether you are a Johnny Coppin fan or not. If you are not a fan and listen to it I'm sure that his voice and style of singing will soon win you over. Its an album that my wife and I not only play at Christmas time but through out the year. We find that no two tracks are alike and they are all first class. Johnny is one of those rare singers that sound exactly the same on stage as he does on his recordings so I'm sure that you will not be disappointed if you go a head and purchase this album and I'm sure that you will then recommend it to all your friends.

Thank you

Denis Byrom

A Magical and Memorable Concert, 01 Nov 2003
This DVD is a must for all Lesley fans, and perhaps for others too. It is most certainly not your typical Christmas Musical Extravaganza, of which one often feels weary.
Lesley has chosen a wide range of musical styles, and there are excellent new arrangements of well known favourites. The end product is a live performance which is stunning in all respects. Guests, stage sets,and variety of songs,are a joy to the ears. I was particularly impressed by several items in the concert where Lesley "spread her wings" even more. The singing and musical arrangement of 'On holy ground', was deeply moving and sung with great passion, so much so,I found it 'spine tingling'.Lesley and Guy's performances of 'Sound the trumpet',and'Baby its cold outside',equally superb in a very different musical genre.From start to finish, this concert recording, keeps you spellbound. It is full of surprises, and never fails to move and entertain.
When you reach the end, you just want to hear and watch it, all over again.
Finally, not only is this DVD wonderful to listen to, it is also
visually excellent. The colourful sets, lighting and costumes, Lesley's is as sparkling as she herself, all add to the 'magic'.I know I will assign this album to my all time favourites.Lesley just gets better and better, without a doubt, I consider it an all round seasonal winner.
SC.

A mellow traditional country Christmas album, 25 Oct 2003
This was recorded by Randy in the late eighties, at the peak of his popularity. It is a well-balanced mix of originals and standards - five of each.

The five originals are made up of two sad songs of lost love (White Christmas makes me blue and Oh what a silent night) and three happy songs (How do I wrap my heart up for Christmas?, Old time Christmas and my favorite track on the album, Meet me under the mistletoe).

The standards are well-chosen, including God rest ye merry gentlemen, perhaps the least-covered among them.

Even the happy songs never rise above mid-tempo, although that's just the style of the album and it works well. This is not a Christmas party album, but it is great for those moments when you can relax around a warm fire (as suggested by the closing song).

His first Christmas album, 21 Oct 2003
Kenny has recorded five Christmas albums – four solo and one with Dolly – but this was the first one he did. It includes an excellent mix of the familiar and the unfamiliar.

The most familiar songs here are White Christmas (the Bing Crosby classic), When a child is born (the song that gave Johnny Mathis his only UK number one hit), O holy night (one of the most popular carols) and My favorite things (originally sung by Julie Andrews in the Sound of Music).

Before you get to them, there are some great songs, of which Carol of the bells is a cover but the others might all be originals. Kenny must like Sweet little Jesus boy a lot – he re-recorded it for the Gift, one of his other Christmas albums, but I particularly like Kentucky homemade Christmas (about a poor family determined to have as good a time as they can) and Kids (about the people who enjoy Christmas most).

This was a great start to Kenny's career as a singer of Christmas music.

The Christmas album that should get played..., 18 Nov 2002
...instead of the Slade/Wizzard/Elton John/Shakin' Stevens compilation. This record is the heart and soul of English Christmases. Play it and feel the joy of Christmases past - when it snowed, when the day was a welcome release from hard labour on the land. Coppin takes an annual tour and plays the songs from A Country Christmas. Like Fairport Convention he should be made into a national music institution. Shed your prejudices against the word 'folk' and indulge yourself.