In Celebration of the Human Voice - The Essential Musical Instrument

Contemporary A Cappella Christmas Music

Yeah, OK, so most Christmas music is reserved for one particular time of the year. But Contemporary a cappella Christmas music has a seasonless quality that makes it great in December, and terrific fun in June, too. Even timeless classics get a contemporary, rockin' edge from these groups, and the originals are modern songs that happen to be about that happiest time of the year. If you're a fan of contemporary a cappella, you won't go wrong with the albums we carry here, even if holiday music isn't your thing.

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Six Appeal : Ugly Sweater Party

Review: Six Appeal is a world class vocal ensemble infused with impeccable comedic timing and the energy and vitality of a rock band. Swearing off instruments, the award-winning vocal band Six Appeal takes you on a journey that spans decades of music, performing classic oldies, current chart toppers, and catchy original tunes -completely a cappella. "Ugly Sweater Party" is Six Appeal's first holiday album. Cozy up by the fireside, throw on some headphones, and put on your favorite ugly sweater as Six Appeal gets you in to the holiday mood

Songlist: All I Want For Christmas Is You, This Christmas, Rise Up, Shepherd, and Follow, God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen, Interlude: Missed Call, Back Home (For Christmas), The Christmas Song, Little Drummer Boys, Santa Marmalade, Happy Xmas (War Is Over), Christmas Fantasia

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Rudiana

Accidentals : An Accidental Christmas

Review: The Accidentals won the Harmony Sweepstakes in 1995 with their signature tune, "You Win." The eight piece group is known for their exemplary musicianship and unexpected arrangements. Though the advance copy we received for review did not include all of the songs on the CD-there will be twenty in all-what we heard lived up to our high expectations, including the hearty "Wassail Song," a pristine "I Wander As I Wander" and the CARA award-winning "Rudiana," a hilarious tour-de-force that sends up a variety of musical genres from classical to tango!

Songlist: Deck The Hall, O come, All Ye Faithful, Angels We Have Heard On High, O Tannenbaum, Ding Dong! Merrily On High, Patapan, The Christmas Song , Jingle Bells , Rudiana, Joy The The World, In Dulci Jubilo , Away In A Manger, The First Noel, God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen, The Wassail Song, Bring A Torch, Jeanette Isabella, I Wonder As I Wander, O Little Town Of Bethlehem, The Hallelujah Chorus, Silent Night

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Carol Medley

Accidentals : I'm Not Going Home For Christmas

Review: NYC-based, 9-member, mixed-voice Accidentals have been personal favorites of ours since their 1995 Harmony Sweepstakes win. The group has gone through five wonderful CDS, numerous awards and some personnel changes since then (their alumni remain a cherished part of their family, and they are joined by Kevin, Todd and Stewart on this recording). The group is not going home for Christmas because New York City is their home, and the CD has a very New York flavor to it. "Winter in Manhattan" is a funny, surprising, hip Christmas song, and standards "Carol of the Bells," "Frosty the Snowman," "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas," "What Child is This," "Three Traditional Carols," "Balulalow," and "Silent Night" are as beautifully and brightly arranged and harmonized as we have ever heard these songs. Several excellent group originals, including the title tune by Bill Mitchell and Jim Vincent, and two winners written by Dennis Deal, the accompanied, funny, brutally honest "The Last 12 Days of the World" and "(I Honestly Hate) This Gift." A pair of lovely classical pieces by Maurice Durufle, "Tota Pulchra" and "Ubi Caritas;" and Francis Poulenc's joyous "Hodie Christmas" are icing on the yummy musical cake that is "I'm not going home for Christmas!"

Songlist: Carol of the Bells, Frosty the Snowman, Winter in Manhattan , Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas, Tota Pulchra, What Child Is This, The Last 12 Days of the World, Carol Medley, Balulalow, I'm Not Going Home For Christmas, This Gift, Hodie Christus, Ubi Caritas, Silent Night

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Mary Did You Know?

Ball In The House : Believe

Review: The five talented young men of Boston-based Contemporary a cappella group Ball In The House wowed us on the stage of the 1998 Harmony Sweepstakes Finals. Since then they have been delighting audiences with their dynamic live show, which they perform over 250 times a year, and with top-drawer recordings such as "Ball In The House," "Think About It" and "Granite Ave," all popular titles in the PAC catalog. "Believe" is a masterful Christmas album with the magic words below the 12-cut songlist: "All sounds on this album were created by the human voice!" "Oh Come, Oh Come, Emmanuel" (intro) "Angels We Have Heard On High," "Away In A Manger," "Oh Come, Oh Come, Emmanuel Part I" (interlude), "What Child Is This," "Some Children See Him," "Little Drummer Boy," "Oh Come, Oh Come, Emmanuel Part II" (interlude), "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen," "Mary Did You Know," "Oh Come, Oh Come, Emmanuel Part III" (interlude) and the powerful final cut, "Believe," all feature stellar vocal percussion (including an all-beatbox "Little Drummer Boy"), sweet leads and background vocals, and amazing arrangements. Since we were treated to Ball In The House at the Sweeps Finals, the group has become one of the best Contemporary A Cappella groups performing today, and we loved every cut of "Believe!"

Songlist: Oh Come, Oh Come, Emmanuel (Intro), Angels We Have Heard On High, Away in a Manger, Oh Come, Oh Come, Emmanuel, What Child Is This?, Some Children See Him, Little Drummer Boy, God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen, Mary Did You Know?, Believe

Ball In The House : Home For Christmas

Review: Their second Christmas CD featuring classics, forgotten carols, and some of their favorite soulful holiday tunes. Get down and get in the holiday spirit like you never have with this must have for the season!new sale

Songlist: This Christmas, Do You Hear What I Hear?, I'll Be Home For Christmas, O Holy Night, The Christmas Song, Balulalow, O Come All Ye Faithful, Happy Holidays To You

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Last Christmas

BaSix : Christmastime

Review: A Christmas winner! This fabulous a cappella pop holiday release has been awarded two CARA awards, for "Best Holiday Album" and "Best Holiday Song" and it's easy to see why it has won such acclaim. Once again this talented group presents fascinating arrangements this time of modern Christmas classics such as George Michael's "Last Christmas", Joni Mitchell's "River" and Christina Aguilera's "This Christmas". Production values are always top-notch with the group and this well-produced, sung and arranged album will be a holiday favorite to play season after season. Recommended.

Songlist: Candlesong, Last Christmas, Silent Night, Santa Claus Is Coming To Town, Det Er Hvidt Herude, This Christmas, Christmastime, The Christmas Song River, God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen, Soft Soft Present, Dejlig Er Jordan, Christmas Bonus

Blenders : Christmas Light

Review: Originally hailing from Fargo, ND, The Emmy-winning Blenders now call Minneapolis, MN their home, and this talented, pioneering all male a cappella quartet has been very busy since we first discovered them in 1992 with the first of their now 13 recordings, "Totally Whipped," "From the Mouth" (1994), and "The Blenders" (1995). Then came their instant Best Seller Christmas collection, "Nog," which filled the stockings of all our friends and family with creamy-smooth harmonies. 2002's "When It Snows" was supported by an enormously successful holiday tour and made the Billboard charts, and "The Blenders Holiday Best," (2004) and "Most Wonderful Time" (2005), live DVD "Christmas with the Blenders" (2007) and 2 CD set "The Blenders: Christmas Collection" (2007) helped make the Blenders' name synonymous with Christmas! "Christmas Light" has 11 songs, mostly accompanied. Our favorites are of course the cuts with little or no accompaniment, the fun, rhythmic "Sleigh Ride," richly harmonic "Some Children See Him," and bright, joyous "What Child is This." Among the accompanied tunes, the original "Where Are You Christmas," "Last Christmas," "Amen," "This Christmas," "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen," "Joy to the World" and bonus track "America" are standouts. But the highlight of all the Blenders recordings are the heavenly harmonies and great leads of these four talented men, often called "one of America's best-kept vocal secrets," who have been touring and delighting live audiences for decades with their signature sound.

Songlist: This Christmas, Last Christmas, God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen, Where Are You Christmas, Amen!, Children Go Where I Send Thee , Sleigh Ride, What Child Is This, Some Children See Him, Joy to the World, America (bonus track)

Blenders : Holiday Best

Review: This 2004 releases is a compilation of their other two Christmas recording ("Nog" and "When It Snows") plus a new bonus track"I'll Be Home For Christmas"

Songlist: Carol of the Bells, 'Twas The Night Before Christmas, Do You Hear What I Hear, When It Snows, Hark The Herald Angels Sing, The Christmas Song, The First Noel, Pure Imagination / White Christmas, Walkin' in a WInter Wonderland, Angels We Have Heard On High, One Small Child/We Three Kings, O Come All Ye Faithful, Tiny Little Christmas, Santa Claus Is Comin' To Town, Silent Night, I'll Be Home For Christmas

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It Came Upon A Midnight Clear

Blenders : It's The Most Wonderful Time

Review: In years past, if we were asked for our favorite Christmas CD, "Nog," by the Blenders came right to the tip of our minds. The all male quartet was the definition of smooth-as-silk, break-your-heart harmonies and Omigod arrangements. But today we found "Time" in our pile of review CDs, and we realized that Santa loves Contemporary a cappella. 12 cuts, all crackling like a yule log with spot-on vocal percussion - the title tune, "Go Tell it on the Mountain," "It Came Upon a Midnight Clear," "Frosty the Snowman/Here Comes Santa Claus" medley, "I Wonder As I Wander," a funky "Deck the Halls," a bluenote "O Little Town of Bethlehem," the walking-jazzy "I Bought You a Plastic Star (for Your Aluminum Tree"), "Away In A Manger," and the Firsesign Theater-ish sound-skit "Christmas Eve," which segues into the incongruous, disco band-accompanied "All Wrapped Up." Each of these songs is a gem that needs a few listens to truly appreciate. The Men in Blend have done it again!

Songlist: It's The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year, Go Tell It On The Mountain, It Came Upon A Midnight Clear, Santa's Little Helper, Frosty The Snowman/Here Comes Santa Claus, I Wonder As I Wander, Deck The Halls, O Little Town Of Bethlehem, I Bought You A Plastic Star, Away In A Manger, Christmas Eve, All Wrapped Up

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The Christmas Song

Blenders : Nog

Review: Hurry, quick! Look at what the Santa's little helpers have been up to this year! It's hard to believe that these four young men from Minnesota have transfused these familiar holiday chestnuts with such inspiration and wonder, but indeed they have. "Let It Snow" takes as it's initial premise a Polynesian tiki lounge rhythm - already different - and then takes the cheery melody headlong into a ninth chord resolution! This CD is trimmed with so many gorgeous decorations that it improves the more one hears it, revealing subtleties that delight upon discovery. The creativity just saturates every song, whether as a distinctive rhythmic variation or unexpected countermelody, but always integrated into the whole (by the way, the group produced and arranged "Nog" themselves). In terms of intonation and blend, the Blenders (coinciding with their choice of name), are the best in the business: listen to "Do You Hear What I Hear" as just one excellent example. It's perfectly calibrated, the senses reveling in the purity of sound. Contemporary a cappella at its best.

Songlist: The Christmas Song, Do You Hear What I Hear, Let It Snow, The First Noel, Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas, The Little Drummer Boy, Angels We Have Heard On High, Christmas Time Is Here, Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer, Silent Night

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Twas the Night

Blenders : When It Snows

Review: The Blenders, one of our favorite groups of all time, and whose Christmas CD on PAC Records, "Nog," has been our best-selling Christmas title, have a new Christmas CD! "Carol of the Bells" segues into a surprising, jazzy, blue-note vocal-percussion "Twas the Night." "Walkin' in a Winter Wonderland" is a funky, bopping rap romp (with some non-vocal percussion). The sweet "Hark the Herald Angels Sing" has the trademark Blenders harmonies. "When It Snows" is a powerful original, "One Small Child/We Three Kings" is dramatically beautiful. The atmospheric original "Pure Imagination" segues into a finger-snapping "White Christmas," a funky "Santa Claus Is Coming To Town," a touching falsetto "O Come All Ye Faithful," "Sleigh Ride" is a parody of the Velvet Underground's "Walk on the Wild Side," and a final sweet, rhythmic original, "Tiny Little Christmas." Some non-vocal percussion and keyboards on some cuts. A striking, innovative Christmas CD by the Blenders!

Songlist: Carol Of The Bells, Twas The Night, Walkin' in a Winter Wonderland, Hark The Herald Angels Sing, When It Snows, One Small Child / We Three Kings, Pure Imagination / White Christmas, Santa Claus Is Comin' To Town, O Come All Ye Faithful, Sleigh Ride, Tiny Little Christmas

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Christmas in L.A.

Bobs : Too Many Santas

Review: The Bobs have become rather a legend since their formation in 1982. Their self-written original material, which comprises the majority of their repetoire, is caustic, political, and delivers the maximum bang for the buck. "Too Many Santas" is a raccous wail with a funky groove, "Rasta Reindeer" bends Beach Boys harmonies around a lamp post and leaves them there. An "instrumental" version (vocal trumpet) of "Do You Hear What I Hear, Man" is a rum-soaked bop at the corner bar, which the Bobs do come by honestly (Joe "Bob" Finetti is an alum of Phil Mattson's P.M. Singers). "Christmas In L.A." is a modern standard, the grave insincerity of the lyrics offset by the lounge lizard arrangement, though them chords sure are pretty! The four Bobs - Joe, Richard, Matthew and Janie (yes, one gal) - keep it coming, so this is a Christmas get together you'll want to attend!

Songlist: Yuleman vs. the Anti-Claus, Mambo, Santa, Mambo, Too Many Santas, Christmas in Jail, Santa's Got a Brand New Bag, Fifty Kilowatt Tree, The Night Before the Night Before Christmas, Do You Hear What I Hear, Man?, Christmas in LA, Mrs. Claus Want Some Lovin', Rasta Reindeer, All I Want for Christmas

Breath of Soul : Blue Christmas

Review: "Nashville's Premier Vocal Band," Breath of Soul, David, Jesse, Tony and Jake, brings us what seems to be their first recording as a trio (vocal percussionist Jake is not pictured on the cover, and there are no liner notes) a surprising, thought-provoking 8-song Christmas CD, recorded in 2009. For singing together only a few years, BOS sounds like a much more experienced group. We're especially impressed with their cutting-edge arrangement, most probably done by baritone Jesse Upah, who did all the arranging on BOS's excellent 2010 release "Breath of Soul." "O Come O Come Emmanuel" is a bluenote, call-and-response arrangement of the classic carol unlike any we've ever heard, "Satisfaction" is a vocal percussion-driven original with a memorable hook, "Peace, love, hope, satisfaction!;" the title tune is a Doo-Woppy walking Blues with a sweet whistle solo, "Silver Bells" also has a walking-rhythm Doo-Wop flavor with sweet leads and harmonies, and "Angels We Have Heard on High" is given a nice 80s pop rearrangement with a cool lead that eventually dances its way back to the original chorus tune. "Rudolph" has a jazzy, 50s nightclub flavor, a fairly standard "Silent Night" shows off BOS's considerable harmonic blending talents as it segues into a gentle "Away in A Manger" and the powerful "I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day" gets a new melody and new words ("Then ring the Bells so loud and deep, God is not dead, nor does He sleep, peace on earth, goodwill to men!"). Breath of Soul, which we would classify as "Contemporary Christian" on "Blue Christmas," has taken a lot of chances here, while showing off its collection of non-instrumental sounds and whistles, technical augmentations, and of course, yummy leads and harmonies. And it all shows us a group that we feel is destined for great things!

Songlist: O Come O Come Emmanuel, Satisfaction, Blue Christmas, Silver Bells, Angels We Have Heard on High, Rudolph, Silent Night , I Heard The Bells

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Cool Yule

Cadence : Cool Yule

Review: Toronto's all male Vocal Jazz quartet Cadence says "Instruments are for surgeons," and we couldn't agree more! The group's much-anticipated hot new 4th release, "Cool Yule" is hot and cool off the presses, and the goodies in our stockings keep on coming: "Silent Night - Prelude," great vocal percussion and faux instruments on "Sleigh Ride," the jazzy title tune, sweet new arrangements on "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas," "Baby, It's Cold Outside," "I Saw Three Ships," "The Carpenter's Carol," "Carol of the Bells" and "Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree;" the soulful, bluesy original "River," the sweet, joyous new French carol "Petit Papa Noel," "Christmas Song" and "Silent Night." The buzz around fast-rising Cadence in the jazz world is growing every day, and the finely-crafted "Cool Yule" is a Christmas winner from start to finish, one of the best Vocal Jazz albums of the year!

Songlist: Silent Night - Prelude, Sleigh Ride, Cool Yule, Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas, Baby, It's Cold Outside, River, I Saw Three Ships, The Carpenter's Carol, Carol of the Bells, Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree, Petit Papa Noel, Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire), Silent Night

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Mustang Santa

Cat's Pajamas Vocal Band : Purr-Fect For The Holidays

Review: Brian, Nate, Brad, Nathaniel, Mike and Nate are five-man a cappella band from Branson, MO who entered the national spotlight in 2005 when they placed in the top 10 while performing their Oreo Cookie Jingle for Randy Jackson. Since then they have been touring the world, and now perform over 200 shows per year in Branson and throughout the U.S. They have been seen on multiple TV shows, cruise ships and performing arts centers around the world, and were recently picked to compete on NBC's The Sing-Off! "Purrfect..." is the group's first Christmas CD of 12 tunes. Favorites are a crazed, manic, very fun "You're a Mean One, Mr. Grinch," a very silly "The Chipmunk Song" with perfect imitations of Alvin, Simon and Theodore; a jazzy, chord-bending, very Motown arrangement of "Silver Bells;" a mellow "White Christmas, Part 1 and jazzy, finger-popping, doo-woppy "White Christmas, Part 2; a powerful, sweet take on "Mary Did You Know," "Mustang Santa" is a big fun, soulful romp, and, after that, the incongruous but hauntingly lovely "In the Bleak Mid Winter" features guest tenor George Dyer. We love a cappella groups who become great entertainers, and Cat's Pajamas is one of the best. Don't miss this one!

Songlist: Sleigh Ride, Winter Wonderland, O Holy Night, You're A Mean One Mr. Grinch, The Chipmunk Song, Silver Bells, White Christmas, Part 1, White Christmas, Part 2, Mary Did You Know, Mustang Santa, In The Bleak Mid Winter, Silent Night

Chicago Voice Exchange : CVXmas

Review: CVX has wowed us from more than one Harmony Sweepstakes Finals stage, and this is their raucous, more than slightly irreverent, fun Christmas CD! 14 songs: "Jingle Bells," a jazzy, driving "Carol O' Bells," the Beach Boys' "Little St. Nick," "We Three Kings," "Santa Claus" (who has whether you've been good or bad "on videotape"), a delightfully oily "Mr. Grinch," "Deck The Hall," "Mistletoe and Holly," "Holly Jolly Christmas," the requisite "Rudolph," "Silent Night," the hilarious "Walkin' Round In Women's Underwear" ("Later on, if ya wanna, we can dress like Madonna"),the raunchy, macho "Better Open Up My Present," and finally "Feliz Navidad," which becomes the little-known Jewish carol--"Feliz Hannukah." This is a party Christmas CD--not for everyone, but then it doesn't try to be!

Songlist: Jingle Bells, Carol O' Bells, Little St. Nick, We Three Kings, Santa Claus Is Coming To Town, Gabriel's Message, Deck The Halls, You're A Mean One Mr Grinch, White Christmas, Mistletoe and Holly, Holly Jolly Christmas, Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer, Gloria In Excelsis, Silent Night, Walkin' Around, You'rd Better Open Up My Present, Feliz Navidad

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Once in Royal David's City

CHICKAdivas : Wintersong

Review: These 5 "a cappella chicks with swing and style" from Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, who have been entertaining audiences together since 2002, and who were winners of Northern Harmony 2003, bring us their 2nd CD, a Christmas album, after their well-received debut CD, "Chick Us Out!" There are 16 spirited Christmas favorites here, particularly fine are Guylaine's solos on the Czech carol "Rocking" and "What You Gonna Name Him?," Marion's solos on traditional French carol "Entre le boeuf et l'ane gris" and the Austrian traditional carol "He Smiles Within His Cradle," Regina's solos on "It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas" and "I'll Be Home For Christmas," Rebecca's solo on Kirby Shaw's "Jamaican Noel," the title tune, a German Carol, with English lyrics by Regina, and the Kirby Shaw-arranged "White Christmas." A beautiful Christmas collection from Canada's talented CHICKAdivas.

Songlist: It's Beginning to Look Like Christmas, Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree, I Saw Three Ships, Rocking, One Still and Silent Night, What You Gonna Name Him?, Entre le boeuf et l'ane gris, Ecce Maria, Once in Royal David's City, Wintersong, It Came Upon the Midnight Clear, Silver Bells, He Smiles Within His Cradle, I'll Be Home for Christmas, Jamaican Noel, White Christmas

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Tacobel Canon

Christine Lavin & the Mistletones : The Runaway Christmas Tree

Review: Do you ever want to hear those dogs barking "Jingle Bells" again? Neither does Christine Lavin - this "comic observer of human manners" (The New York Times) says she "just couldn't find a good Christmas/ Kwanzaa/ Solstice /Chanukah /Ramadan/ Boxing Day album, so I had to make one." So she rounded up seven other vocalists, assembled a sackful of characteristically humorous, offbeat, and occasionally moving seasonal songs, added a couple of original stories, and created this lighthearted a cappella alternative to the usual cloying Christmas-season songbook, a fresh delight for children and adults alike. On The Runaway Christmas Tree, there are tales of Christmas miracles gone wrong (in "Polkadot Pancakes"), what sound like munchkins on helium ("Elves"), and choral complaints and celebrations regarding food ("Scalloped Potatoes" and "Tacobel Canon," respectively). The title track, with its echoes of Dr. Seuss, is a bedtime story Lavin wrote for her niece to explain why people decorate their Christmas trees (to weigh them down so they can't escape, of course!). Interspersed with these unorthodox holiday excursions are a handful of somewhat more conventional hymns to the peace and joy the end of the year represents - the lovely "Dona Nobis Pacem," "A New Year's Round," "Lamb and Lion," "Allelujah/Amen," "Good Night to You All" and the very slightly twisted "A Christmas/ Kwanzaa/ Solstice/ Chanukah/ Ramadan/ Boxing Day Song" and "The All Purpose Carol" (which ends with a resounding "Oy, mon!"). A truly fun and enjoyable recording.

Songlist: A Christmas / Kwanzaa / Solstice / Chanukah / Ramadan / Boxing Day Song, Snow Snow Snow Snow, The Runaway Christmas Tree, Dona Nobis Pacem, Lamb and Lion, The All Purpose Carol, Elves, Scalloped Potatoes, Polkadot Pancakes, Tacobel Canon, A New Year's Round, The 12 Days of Christmas, Allelujah / Amen, Good Night to You All

Chromatics : Unwrapped

Review: Padi Boyd, Lisa Kelleher, Paul Kolb, John Meyer, Deb Nixon, Alan Smale and Karen Smale, the Chromatics, bring us a bright, fresh Christmas CD, featuring standard carols and pop tunes, strikingly arranged. They're all here: "Angels We Have Heard On High," "White Christmas," "Let It Snow, Let It Snow," "Frosty/Santa Medley," 14 classic songs to help fill you with the Christmas spirit!

Songlist: Angles We Have Heard On High, White Christmas, Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer, Rockin' Around The Christmas Tree, Sing With Gladness, I'll Be Home For Christmas, Riu Riu Chiu, Frosty/Santa Medley, Winter Madrigal, Let It Snow, Let It Snow, Let It Snow, A Merry Christmas, Glory Hallelu, The One Horse Open Sleigh, Silent Night

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Angels We Have Heard on High

Coats : On Christmas Time

Review: Those of you familiar with the Coats' pop harmonies (everyone?) will be delighted and impressed with these 12 (a cappella with occasional acoustic percussion) holiday tracks. Evidently, the group approached their new assignment with a desire to incorporate new stylistic elements into their arranging canon, embellishing their warm, compact blend with a library of accents, inflections and countermelodies. "Santa Claus Is Coming To Town" is as dynamic and original version as we've ever heard, with a vigorous walking bass underneath jazz phrasing and scat! A stately and resonant "Silent Night" conveys the grandeur of the occasion by the addition of non-diatonic chords to the standard progression. Each of the nine traditional carols and three Coats originals display the same inventive spirit of adventure, though still within the pop mainstream - just more interesting and better. Applause!

Songlist: On Christmas Time, Santa Claus Is Coming To Town, Jingle Bells, Little Drummer Drummer Boy, Holiday Countdown, Mr. Grinch, Silent Night, Winter Wonderland, God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen, Let There Be Peace On Earth, The Warmth Of Christmas

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Let It Snow

Coats : The Caroler

Review: One of the earliest "contemporary" a cappella groups the Coats are still performing and creating top-notch a cappella today as this excellent new holiday release demonstrates in spades. Almost half of the songs are group originals including the delightful title track and the clever arrangements (most by long-time member Jamie Dieveney) of the covers give the recording a decidedly refreshing sound. That sound is really quite diverse from the atmospheric "We Three Kings" to the upbeat dance sound of "Put the Merry in Merry Christmas" to the almost calypso "Joy Medley". An excellent Christmas CD that you will play for many Christmases to come.

Songlist: The Caroler, Do You Hear What I hear, Let it Snow, While By Our Sheep, Cookies, Put the Merry in Merry Christmas, Lookin' After the Reindeer, Toy Medley, A Star to Follow, We Three Kings, The Christmas Story, Deck the Halls

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Supula dziesma

Cosmos : Christmas - Ticu un Viss

Review: Having just listened to the incredible "Turbulence" by Cosmos, the idea of a Christmas album by Cosmos is stunning and a little scary. Christmas music is, almost by definition, elementary, simple, and repetitive. Cosmos is dynamic, stunning, envelope-pushing, crazed a cappella, arranged (by the group) like nothing you have ever heard before. The bold, colorful liner notes, with an accordion foldout lyric book with photos of the six young men hamming it up in formal wear all warn us - this is not your Grandmother's Christmas album. All but one of the cuts has a Latvian title ("Klusa nakts," "Aija, Ancit, aija," "Jus, ticigie, naciet," "Supula dziesma," "Vakars," "Circenisa Ziemassvetki," "Ticu un viss," "Neticu un viss," "Reiz meza dzima eglite" and "Rukisi un Mezavecis;" the Bobby McFerrinesque "We Wish You a Merry Christmas" speaks for itself. But we recognized "Silent Night," "O Come All Ye Faithful," and a very cool, jazzy, almost unrecognizable version of "Rudolf the Red-Nosed Reindeer," as far as we can tell! "Ticu un viss" is bizarre, funny, unbelievable and wonderful, like Christmas music from another planet. It will blow your mind and open it, to the immense creative power of the human voice - and, for that matter, of Christmas!

Songlist: Klusa Nakts, Aija, Ancit, aija, Jus, Ticigie, Naciet, Supula dziesma, Vakars, Cnrt yctanbie nlpymkn, Circenisa Ziemassvetki, Ticu un Viss, Neticu un viss, Reiz meza dzima eglite, We Wish You A Merry Christmas, Rukisi un Mezavecis

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Boar's Head Carol

Denver A Cappella Project : Please Have Snow

Review: Founded in 1999, this excellent Colorado mixed vocal jazz octet jumps right into a bright, bouncing "Let It Snow," and doesn't let up until the final note of cut 13, the best "Little Drummer Boy" we've heard since M-Pact's on "Carol Commission." A very cool "Jingle Bells" cover, a crisp, ringing "Pat-A-Pan," a wonderfully sexy, upbeat "Baby, It's Cold Outside," some amazingly complex chords on "I'll Be Home for Christmas" and "Silent Night," a brash, scatty "Santa Claus Is Coming To Town," a nice caroler's medley of "Deck the Halls/I Saw Three Ships/We Wish You a Merry Christmas/Holly and the Ivy," a moving new song, "Christmas in the Trenches" and others. "Please Have Snow" is one of the best Christmas vocal jazz collections we've heard in a long time!

Songlist: Let It Snow, Jingle Bells, O Magnum Mysterium, Pat-A-Pan, Baby, It's Cold Outside, I'll Be Home For Christmas, Boar's Head Carol, Silent Night, Santa Claus Is Comin' To Town, Carol Medley, Jesu Parvule, Belleau Wood, The Little Drummer Boy

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Need a Little Christmas

Eclipse : It's Christmas Time

Review: Eclipse has taken Christmas music to a whole new level with their second holiday album. "It's Christmas Time" is an up-beat and light-hearted collection of songs that is sure to put a smile on your face. The album features ten new arrangements that are both inventive and engaging - from the hard-hitting bass and percussion of "Need a Little Christmas" and "Come all ye Faithful" to the emotional delivery of "O Holy Night," this album will make you fall in love with Christmas music all over again. "It's Christmas Time" is a must-have for your holiday music collection and the perfect Christmas gift.

Songlist: I Saw Three Ships, Come All Ye Faithful, Shake Up Christmas, O Holy Night, Need a Little Christmas, Christmas as a Child, Do Your Hear What I Hear?, Christmastime, Let It Snow, Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas

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Three Kings

Eclipse : Three Kings

Review: The six young men of Eclipse first met in a singing group at Utah State University. Campus performances of pop covers led to their first album, 2001's "Once." They won the NW Regional Harmony Sweeps and were very impressive at the 2001 Finals. After performing a featured number in the Opening opening of the 2002 Winter Olympics, and releasing their second album, "Think Twice," they won the 2002 Rocky Mountain Sweeps Regional. "Three Kings" is a rich, innovative Christmas CD that features 11 songs that features stunning arrangements, many of them by group member Patrick Rose. There are 3 very nice original tunes, "This Year," "Room in the Inn" and the sweet "Lullaby." Strong vocal percussion on the spirited "Three Kings," "Drummer Boy," and "Go Tell It." Smooth, ringing harmonies on "The First Noel" and "What Child Is This?" A bluesy, jazzy "The Christmas Song" and "Silent Night" are last. One of the best of the year! Highly recommended.

Songlist: Three Kings, The First Noel, What Child Is This?, This Year, Drummer Boy, Lullaby, Go Tell It, Room in the Inn, Hark, The Herald Angels Sing, The Christmas Song, Silent Night

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All Through The Night

Edlos : WinterSongs

Review: The Edlos are first-rate technical singers who amuse themselves and their zealous followers with zany antics and offbeat lyrics. This mix of the high and lowbrow has resulted in an eclectic sound that is umistakeably Edlos. For this special Christmas collection enjoy the Appalachian traditional, "Talkin' About Sufferin' Here Below," a Ukrainian carol, "Carol Of The Bells," "Big Santa (The Visit)," and "Sim Shalom," among others. This male quartet makes everything they do sound easy and casual, but listen intently: the whole is fashioned with the utmost of precision, and scholarship that takes years to acquire.

Songlist: Ascending Star of Bethlem, Little Drummer Boy, Gimme Some Presents, Big Santa (The Visit), Le Sommeil De L'Enfant Jesus (The Sleep of the Infant Jesus), Talk about Sufferin' Here Below, The Coventry Carol, Sim Shalom, All Through the Night, O Holy Night, Ukrainian Carol (Carol of the Bells)

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White Christmas

Essentials : Remember December

Review: Here's a group that shows that the uniquely American style of doo wop can be sung from over the border as this Canadian group's latest Christmas CD is a gem. More like doo-wop tinged there is both great singing (what a bass!) and arrangements that are a standout from the usual Christmas fair. It has been quite awhile since their previous release and time has seasoned them well as they have been performing steadily for years. There is the occasional very light accompaniment but vocals are very much front and center on this holiday treat.

Songlist: White Christmas, Winter Wonderland, Remember December, What Child Is This?, The First Noel, Little Drummer Boy, The Christmas Song, O Holy Night, Jingle Bell Rock, Rockin' Around The Christmas Tree, Happy Christmas

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The First Noel

Essentials : Stocking Stuffer

Review: A little treat from north of the border from Toronto-based The Essentials. There's only three songs but they are most enjoyable and the recording is indeed a great Stocking Stuffer.

Songlist: The First Noel, Jingle Bell Rock, What Child is This?

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Do You Hear What I Hear?

Face : I Hear the Bells

Review: Of course you know Face's record, placing 2nd at both the 2005 and 2007 Harmony Sweeps Finals, and making the Finals in 2008's The Sing-Off, its first smash year. Well, we hold in our hands "I Hear the Bells," this elite Denver, CO-based all-male sextet's freshly-released first Christmas album, and it's wonderful! There are nine finely-crafted tunes here, the tone is set with the title tune, an original by Face tenor Stephen Ross, a rich, complex, rhythmic anthem with depth and power; another original, "If I Think," by Face baritone Ben Lunstad, a deeply touching hymn to peace and personal change with hypnotic African rhythms, which asks and answers a very important question: "Am I a child of this world, can I change my ways?;" a surprising medley that seamlessly blends "We Three Kings" and "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen." Lunstad & Ross also lend marvelous arrangements that transform "Do You Hear What I Hear," "O Holy Night," "Little Drummer Boy," "Silent Night/The River Runs Slow" and "O Come, O Come Emmanuel/On the Turning Away" medleys, and an incongruously juicy manic, live rendition of "You're a Mean One, Mr. Grinch." Each of these cuts is very special, "I Hear the Bells" needs to be savored a number of times to fully appreciate them. The members of Face, reflecting on their 10 years together: "each of us is humbled. A magic was created that we still can't explain-we simply enjoy it and nurture it." We can only add, "one of the best Christmas albums we have heard!"

Songlist: I Hear The Bells, Do You Hear What I Hear?, God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen, O Holy Night, If I Think, O Come O Come Emmanuel, On The Turning Away, Little Drummer Boy, Silent Night / River Runs Slow, You're A Mean One Mr. Grinch

Five O'Clock Shadow : Misfit Toys

Review: 1999 5-song EP from Boston contemporary group Five O'Clock Shadow, who have emerged from recent changes in personnel sounding better than ever. The three original compositions are catchy and radio-friendly, and the production features big vocal guitars, drums and bass, in the "vocal band" style. "Santa Says Rock" really does, getting just a bit outside and curling its lip in a sneer. "It's Christmas" has that Euro-pop sound, with a vocal keyboard line that tattoos the brain, and a chunky backbeat. "Silent Night" becomes a midtempo ballad, with a steamy guitar lead.

Songlist: Watching The Tracks, Santa Says Rock, Little Drummer Boy, It's Christmas, Silent Night

Flying Pickets : Only Yule

Review: Formed over 30 years ago and one of the very early contemporary a cappella The Flying Pickets are still going strong today and continue to tour extensively across Europe. The group members have changed over the years but the level of excellence has stayed consistent and it easy to tell listening to this fine recording why they have remained popular for all these years. Each one of these Christmas tunes is creatively arranged along with the strong voices makes for a delightful holiday treat. This recording deserves to be in your collection.

Songlist: 2000 Miles, Ding Ding Merrily On High, Shine, Little Drummer Boy, I Believe In Father Christmas, Christmas Present, Very Good King, In The Bleak Mid Winter, Christmas Lullaby, Alleujah, Silent Night, Frosty The Snowman, Only You

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Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer

Four Shadow : Flake

Review: Having just finished raving about Minneapolis-based Four Shadow's "Live" CD, we were pleased to receive the ir third recording ("Where Have You Been" was the excellent first), a Christmas CD called simply "Flake." We needed only to listen to"Christmas Soup," which begins innocently as "12 Days of Christmas" and morphs into a surprising musical sampler of a dozen tunes, to know that these 4 young guys have the talent and arrangements to sing with anyone in Contemporary a cappella. 10 songs, from a very funky "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer," and a wonderfully slimy "You're a Mean One, Mr. Grinch," to traditional covers of "O Holy Night," "The Christmas Song," "O Come, O Come, Emmanuel" and a fine classical rendition of the sacred song "Ave Maria." Other standouts are a sweet original, "That Time of Year," where you'll swear you're listening to Rockapella, "Blue Christmas," with funny, desperate mumbling by "Elvis," and amazing, driving vocal percussion on "The Little Drummer Boy." The guys toss little treats like unexpected samples and vocal horns into our bulging stockings. "Flake," another impressive effort by Four Shadow, is a Christmas winner!

Songlist: Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer, You're A Mean One Mr. Grinch, O Holy Night, That Time of Year, The Christmas Song, O Come, O Come, Emmanuel, Blue Christmas, The Little Drummer Boy, Ave Maria

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Frosty The Snowman

Four Shadow : Joy

Review: Prolific, talented all-male Minneapolis-based Contemporary quartet Four Shadow brings us their second Christmas CD (their first was the excellent "Flake"). "Joy" begins with powerful vocal percussion on "Jingle Bells," and features strong originals, "All I Want for Christmas Is You" and the lovely "Baby Jesus" by Kevin, who sings lead on both; the touching "A Father's Christmas Wish" by David, who sings lead; and "Close Your Eyes" by Drew, who also sings lead. Very nice covers of "Winter Wonderland," "Silver Bells," great deep bass on "Frosty the Snowman," and upbeat arrangements of "Joy to the World," "O Come, All Ye Faithful" and "Let It Snow." Also included is a hilarious cover of "Grandma Got Run Over By A Reindeer." A beautiful, fun, all-a cappella Christmas CD from Four Shadow!

Songlist: Jingle Bells, Winter Wonderland, All I Want For Christmas Is You, Silver Bells, Frosty The Snowman, Granma Got Run Over By A Reindeer, Joy To The World, A Father's Christmas Wish, O Come All Ye Faithful, Let It Snow, Baby Jesus, Close Your Eyes

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Secret Santa

Groove Barbers : Glory

Review: The Groove Barbers, made up of ex-Rockapella members Sean Altman, Charlie Evett, Steve Keyes and renowned vocalist Kevin Weist, have put out the essential Holiday album. 'Glory' features 11 of our favorite Holiday classic tunes and 2 brand-spankin'-new (and soon to be just as classic) Holiday originals by Sean Altman - 'Secret Santa,' and 'You're My Christmas' - both, incidentally, have vocal percussion tracks by Rockapella's Jeff Thacher. With their signature sound, a mix of of jazz, pop and barbershop, the Groove Barbers have been delighting audiences across the country, we are very proud to bring you their first Holiday recording!

Songlist: Secret Santa, We Need A Little Christmas, Let It Snow, Christmas Medley, You're My Christmas, The Chipmunk Song, Here Comes Santa Claus, Angels We Have Heard On High, Deck The Hall, Jingle Bells, I Have A Little Dreidle, Oh Christmas Tree, We Wish You A Merry Christmas

Hampton Avenue : All I Want For Christmas

Review: Funky, swinging, contemporary, jazzy: this Canadian nine-member mixed ensemble is a stylistic delegation from a variety of genres. About half of the material is original, composed by Debbie Fleming, who also produced. They scat through the midsection of "Santa Claus Is Comin' To Town," trilling in the upper registers and shaking the notes, ending on a descending smear. The original, "All I Want For Christmas" (with rhythm track), has a danceable vocal bass groove, while the "Charlie Brown Christmas" segues into "Christmas Time Is Here." The sound is brilliant, with big layered backing chords, and ringing high soprano parts.

Songlist: All I Want For Christmas, I'll Miss You This Christmas, Santa Claus Is Comin' to Town, In a Manger, Charlie Brown Christmas, Glory Halleluiah, Dancing, Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas, Talk With Santa, Angel's Lullaby, Jingle Bell Rock, Candles in the Windows, Caribbean Christmas, Night of His Birth, Carolling, Carolling

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Blue Christmas

Heebee-jeebees : Christmas Crackers

Review: It wouldn't really be Christmas without a hilarious Christmas parody CD from Calgary, Canada's favorite male humorous quartet. While "Waiting Under The Mistletoe," "Falalalala," and "Xmas Nuts" are extremely tough acts to follow, "Christmas Crackers" takes rampant silliness to a whole other level! First, let's give some major kudos to group member Jonathan Love-all 13 songs here are "penned and twisted" by Mr. Love. Second, don't be deceived by the song titles. "Hark the Herald Angels Sing," for instance, is about a joyful visit from carolers, "until that last guy slipped;" and "Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree" morphs into an exploration of the pains and options of Christmas tree shopping, to the tune of "Meet The Flintstones." "I Saw Three Chicks" is a group-accompanied (yes, the Heebees are actually holding instruments on the cover!!!) Irish foot-tapping folk tune about shopper lemmings descending on a mall; and "It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year" slips into "West Side Story's" "I Feel Pretty" to describe how the opposite is in fact true. And we couldn't even trust the classic "Grandma Got Run Over By A Reindeer," which adds several brilliant new verses that follow Santa's run-in with the local CSI team after Grandma's untimely "sleighing." The poignant, accompanied "It's So Hard to Be An Elf" is a down and dirty blues tune by a disgruntled Elf who'd "rather be a troll," "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" becomes a horserace that Rudolph wins "by a nose;" and daddy slips putting the lights "Up On the Housetop." "Six White Boomers" is a rousing, crazed ballad of difficulties that arise on Santa's Australian run, and "You're Mean One, Mr. Grinch (The Green, The Bad & The Ugly)" is a legendary Western confrontation between the classic Dr. Seuss villain and "Sheriff Claus," sampling the theme from "Rawhide," among several others, on the way. Anyway, we may never be able to sing a "straight" carol, or think of Christmas the same way again. "Christmas Crackers" is one of the most creative, and funny, Christmas albums we've heard!

Songlist: Christmas of Love, Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree, Blue Christmas, Hark The Herald Angels Sing , I Saw Three Chicks, It's The Most Wonderful Time of the Year, It Came Across The Midnight Clear, Grandma Got Runover By A Reindeer, Up On The Housetop / Silver Bells / Auld Lang Syne, Six White Boomers, You're a Mean One, My Grinch, The Green, The Bad & The Ugly, It's So Hard To Be An Elf

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Mistletoe! Mistletoe! Mistletoe!

Heebee-jeebees : Falalalala

Review: Fasten your sleighbelts, the Heebie-Jeebies (Canadians Cedric Blary, Chris Herard, Ken Lima-Coelho and Jonathan Love) are coming to town with the most irreverent Christmas CD of all time! Just to give you a taste, the boys sing, to the tune of "Let It Snow:" "When you finally state your vows, you may think that's where lip-locking ends. If there's Mistletoe in your house, you can make out with all of her friends! Mistletoe, mistletoe, mistletoe." "Let's All Make Money at Christmas" features the line, "When folks are consuming, our profits are booming, at Christmas it's time to sell out!" Included are "Joy to the World" (sung relatively straight), "I'm Telling," "Winter Wonderland" , "Shopping Mall Santa Claus," "Mistletoe, Mistletoe, Mistletoe!," "Ebenezer," "Arrest This Bearded Gentleman," "Sox & Underwear," "Let's All Make Money At Christmas" and "Silent Night". Every twisted lyric is included in the festive liner notes. The CD fits nicely in a stocking, with ample room for a lump of coal (not included!).

Songlist: Joy to the World , I'm Telling! , Winter Wonderland , Shopping Mall Santa Claus , Mistletoe! Mistletoe! Mistletoe! , Ebenezer, Arrest This Bearded Gentlemen, Sox & Underwear, Let's All Make Money at Christmas, Silent Night, Sox & Underwear

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Let It Snow! (Mistletoe!)

Heebee-jeebees : X-mas Nuts!

Review: It would hardly be Christmas without a new holiday release from our favorite Canadian merrymakers and the four lads are up to their usual mischief with this highly enjoyable recording. All is fair game as the group twists the lyrics to some Christmas standards along with a healthy dose of Christmas originals highlighting their songwriting skills. Poor Frosty will never be the same, The Merry Gentlemen seem to of gotten lost and ended up on Gilligan's Island and it sounds like The Little Drummer Boy may have been drinking. "Cowboy Christmas" tells quite a tale and I think they make it quite clear what they don't want for Christmas in "Sox & Underwear". It's not all silliness as these guys also show their singing chops on "Huron Carol" and the arrangements are fun throughout. A delightful Christmas title.

Songlist: Angels We Have Heard on High, Winter Wonderland, Jingle Bell Rock, Frosty the Snowman, Joy to the World, Little Drummer Boy (Rum Pa Pum Pum), Do You Hear What I Hear? (Live), Cowboy Christmas, Sox & Underwear, Huron Carol, Let It Snow! (Mistletoe!), God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen (Arrest The Bearded Gentlemen), Boxing Day Blues (Bourbon Street Mix)-

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O Holy Night

Home Free : Full Of Cheer

Review: One of our favorite winners of Season 4 of NBC's hit, The Sing-Off, based of course on our own Harmony Sweepstakes, bring us a country-flavored, harmony-rich smorgasbord of Christmas songs. "Full of Cheer" is exactly that, ten beautifully arranged by group members Adam and Chris Rupp, Tim Foust and Ben Bram. The harmonies here are as delicious as the ones that wowed the delighted Sing-Off judges, and are especially sweet on traditional favorites "White Christmas (featuring wonderful faux harmonica and pedal steel)," "O' Holy Night," "I'll Be Home for Christmas," "Baby, It's Cold Outside," "Angels We Have Heard on High," "Do You Hear What I Hear?" and "Silent Night," featuring guest vocalist Taylor Davis. We also loved Jimmy Melton, Anthony Mobley and Danielle Neal's funny and nostalgic "Hairy Christmas," the hilarious country classic "Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer" and the manic, funny title tune, where the guys celebrate that "my baby left me full of cheer!" Of the many things we love about Home Free is how much fun they have singing, their sound is rich and effortless, and their arrangements tight and sweet. Your friends and family, country fans or not, will love "Full of Cheer!"

Songlist: Grandma Got Run Over By Reindeer, White Christmas, O Holy Night, Full of Cheer, I'll Be Home For Christmas, Baby, It's Cold Outside, Merry Christmas, Angels We Have Heard on High, Do You Hear What I Hear?, Silent Night

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God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen

Inpulse : Shed A Little LIght

Review: With very hip and original takes on some of the best loved Christmas carols, and two Inpulse originals, this CD should not be missed. Some favorites include a beautiful contemporary take on "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen," the triumphant and soulful "O Holy Night," the impressive vocal percussion and rockin' solo in their original song "Sound of Salvation," and their soothing sound in "White Christmas." Inpulse's rich, soulful sound is sure to warm your heart this holiday season.

Songlist: God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen, How Christmas Was Meant to Be, O Holy Night, Sound of Salvation, Little Drummer Boy/Peace On Earth, White Christmas, On This Christmas Day, Christmas Song, Angels We Have Heard on High

Kinsey Sicks : Oy Vey In A Manger

Review: The Kinsey Sicks, our favorite Drag Queen Comedy A Cappella quartet since we first saw at the SF Harmony Sweepstakes Regionals, have given us an early holiday gift, their 4th recording, a manic live Christmas CD, which we opened with great anticipation. And, although the humor is as brilliant as we are sure the material in their off-Broadway show was, we have to warn most people right here that there is some pretty rank material, notably "A Lay In A Manger," "O Come, Ye Unfaithful" and "Feliz Navidad Parody," with the Sicks' own caveat "(Trust us, we can't print the name)" that you had better believe. Even the live audience of primarily gay males (judging by audience response to references like local gay hookup mecca Buena Vista Park) seemed taken aback by some of the sex jokes-certainly not for kids or Christian fundamentalists. That being said, it doesn't try to be. Some of the funniest stuff is skits like "The Story of Christmas," where the "girls" tell Trampolina about subletting the manger while Jewish mom Mary is wintering in Florida, who comes back because they "wouldn't let her fly Virgin Airways," and brings her property managers The Three Weismans, and lawyers from the firm of "Gold, Frankincense and Myrrh" who give them "an eviction notice of great joy." They are joined by Mary's relatives "Uncle Christ, Aunty Christ..." who want to order take-out ("Pontius' Palate or Judas's Carry Out?"). 24 songs or spoken bits: "God Bless Ye Femmy Lesbians," "Crystal (Meth) Time In The City," "Jingle Bells, Don't Ask, Don't Tell," "Chanukah Medley" (Jews Better Watch Out), a nice live reprise of their Bobby McFerrin parody, "Worry," "'Tis The Season To Drink Stoli," the spot-on "Vanna White Christmas," and "Soylent Night" (preceded by "Oh, Yes, the Donner Party!") which take us queasily in a cannibalistic direction-I think you get the picture. If you love the Sicks and their edgy- and over-the-edgy humor, "Oy Vey" is your stocking stuffer, if you're new to them or easily offended, You Better Watch Out!

Songlist: Dragapella Chorus, God Bless Ye Femmy Lesbians, Winnie Looks Radiant, I Had a Little Facial, The Story of Christmas, Crystal Time in the City, The Truth About Chanukah, Chanukah Medley, Jingle Bells, Don't Ask, Don't Tell, A Lay in a Manger, Oh! Hoey Night, Worry, Tis the Season to Drink Stoli, Let's Let the Carolers Sing!, Christmas Medley, Soylent Night, Macaroona, Jenny Craig Feel My Sorrow, Papirossen, Harried Little Christmas

Knudsen Brothers : Yuletide

Review: The Knudsens ascended through the a cappella ranks as a barbershop group, but are now firmly ensconced as pre-eminent contemporary artists. Their long-awaited "Yuletide" combines the seamless blend of barbershop with percussion-rich production of contemporary a cappella. The familiar "White Christmas" and "Christmas Song" are nicely arranged, with plush chords and smooth modulations. The walking bass of "Rockin' Around The Christmas Tree" sets up a swing feel, while the CD's closer, a "Christmas Hop" mix of the same song, is hip and shows the Knudsens cutting loose, incorporating techno effects into the tune. The tonal interplay of the pitches resonating off of each other in "O Come, O Come Emmanuel" is inspiring and one of the most beautiful arrangements of this carol that we've heard. Uncle Daniel Knudsen (of the Mormon Tabenacle Choir) takes a solo turn on the classical art song "Gesu Bambino." This CD will appeal to a variety of listeners and is a recommended gift selection.

Songlist: It's Beginning To Look a Lot Like Christmas, Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree, The Christmas Song, I'll Be Home For Christmas, O Come, O Come Emmanuel, Gesu Bambino, Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas, In The Bleak Midwinter, White Christmas, Rockin' Around The Christmas Tree

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Away In A Manger

m-pact : Carol Commission

Review: The Seattle quintet m-pact is just one of the best - and hippest - contemporary groups on the scene today. With unerring musical discernment, they drafted some of the most savvy arrangers to collaborate with them on "A Carol Commission": Randy Crenshaw, Michelle Weir, Yumiko Matsuoka-Young, Morgan Ames, Cedric Dent (of Take 6) et cetera. This marriage of technique and talent has propagated a fusion sound: the harmonic nucleus of jazz, but with so much more. Of the six tracks available for preview at presstime, the standouts are the "Little Drummer Boy," arranged by m-pact's own Matthew Selby; marked with vocal percussion, it has a retro seventies funk feel, a feel associated with the seventh and major/minor third of the blues pentatonic scale, which can be readily heard in the Motown-influenced bass line. "Caroling, Caroling," arranged by Randy Crenshaw, toys with meter amongst the parts, moving in and out of straight time and varying the rhythmic accents in unexpected places, like the handclap on the four, not the one of the beat. "Dance Of The Sugar Plum Fairy" is incredible: a hip-hop jazz interpretation of this classical standard. "A Carol Commission" is an audacious project of most challenging musical caliber!

Songlist: Caroling, Caroling, Dance Of The Sugar Plum Fairy, Christmas Time Is Here, Little Drummer Boy, Jingle Bells, Snowfall, O Come, O Come Emmanuel, Do You Hear What I Hear?, De King Is Born Today, As December Fades Away, Away In A Manger

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Heaven and Earth

Mansound : Joy To The World

Review: ManSound, of course, is the dynamic Vocal Jazz all-male sextet from the Ukraine who have been wowing international Jazz Festival crowds, winning awards and earning critical raves from yours truly. That understood, "Joy to the World" is ManSound's Christmas Album, and it's fabulous. Now, right here you could read about our favorites among the 11 songs, like "Joy to the World/We Wish You a Merry Christmas" medley, "Jingle Bells/Let It Snow!" medley, the lovely "Carol of the Bells (in Russian)," "Heaven and Earth" (also in Russian), MS's incredible jazzy, bluesy take on "Amazing Grace," "Walkin' in a Winter Wonderland," etc., or you could just listen to crazed, finger-popping cut #3, "Santa Baby," cute Russian accent, faux cornet solo and all. You'll realize at that point that "Joy to the World" is one of the least boring, most fun Christmas albums you've ever heard, buy it and enjoy the heck out of your holiday season. My work is done here!

Songlist: Joy To The World, We Wish You A Merry Christmas, Jingle Bells, Let it Snow! Let it Snow! Let it Snow!, Santa Baby, Carol of the Bells, Heaven and Earth, Amazing Grace, White Christmas, Walkin' in a Winter Wonderland, Silent Night, The Message, People Need the Lord, Great Is Thy Faithfulness

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I'll Be Home For Christmas

Marcoux Corner : Tidings

Review: Tidings is yet another great achievement on the part of those four talented singers from North Dakota. This CD comes complete with new arrangements, all written by one of the four members, of 10 of our favorite Christmas carols. Most memorable are "Winter Wonderland," "White Christmas," "I'll Be Home For Christmas," and "Silent Night."

Songlist: Merry Christmas Baby, Winter Wonderland, Away In A Manger, Jingle Bell Rock, White Christmas, All I Want For Christmas, The First Noel, I'll Be Home For Christmas, It Came Upon A Midnight Clear, Silent Night

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Huge on the Luge

Marcoux Corner : Tinsel

Review: Minneapolis, MN-based all-male Contemporary quartet Marcoux Corner brings us a beautifully-crafted Christmas album of 10 tunes, all with cutting-edge arrangements by members of the group. Mel Torme's "The Christmas Song," "Kay Thompson's Jingle Bells," the two traditional carols "Oh, Come, Oh Come Emmanuel" and "God Rest Ye, Merry Gentlemen," the pop favorites "Frosty the Snowman," "Christmas Time is Here," "Baby It's Cold Outside" (featuring Nancy Harms) and "What are You Doing New Year's Eve," both by Frank Loesser. Our final favorite is the very funny "Huge on the Luge," written by the possibly fictional Moxy Fruvous. "Tinsel" is a sweet-harmonied, big fun Christmas collection from Josh, David, Kevin and Brent, our friends at Marcoux Corner!

Songlist: The Christmas Song, Kay Thompson's Jingle Bells, Frosty the Snowman, Christmas Time is Here, O Come, O Come. Emmanuel, Baby, It's Cold Outside, God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen, Huge on the Luge, Oh Come All Ye Faithful, What Are You Doing New Year's Eve?

Merry Olde Christmas Carolers : 25 Anniversary

Review: The world's largest caroling organization, The Merry Olde Christmas Carolers, bring us four of their best singers, two men and two women, singing a full hour of their manic, comic, energetic brand of Christmas cheer. For example, "Here Comes Santa Claus" segues into "Mr. Santa," to the tune of "Mr. Sandman," with some pretty funny lyrics. Guest vocalists are Ellen Shea, Sandra Marlowe and Ken Malucelli (who wrote "Sounds of Christmas," "Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem Go" and lyrics on several other songs). 28 songs,"Pat-a-pan" (with kazoo solo), "Holiday Polka," "Frosty the Snowman," "The Sleigh," "White Christmas"... it's all here. Have a Merry Olde one!

Songlist: Merry Christmas! Happy New Year!, Caroling! Caroling!, Deck the Hall, Jingle Bells, Sleigh Ride, Let it Snow - Winter Wonderland, Here Comes Santa Claus - Mr. Santa, I Rode Around With Santa, Pat-a-pan, The Snow Lay on the Ground, I Saw Three Ships, Do You Hear What I Hear?, Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas, Break Time, Now Is the Month of Christmas, Up On the Housetop - Jolly Old St Nicholas, The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting), The Sleigh, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, Holiday Polka, Frosty the Snowman, God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen, The Holly and the Ivy, Sounds of Christmas, Santa Claus is Coming to Town!, Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem, White Christmas, We Gotta Go!

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God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen

Nylons : A Wish For You

Review: The second Nylons Christmas CD, comprising ten tracks, half written by the group. Those familiar with the Nylons' sound know that they have used rhythm tracks on past recordings. Well, the percussion on 'A Wish For You' is vocal, with Wes Carroll of the House Jacks guesting on two songs. The Nylons are one of the original contemporary a cappella groups, who have continued to perform and tour, write and record for over twenty years. The group has only gotten better with time, displaying heart and integrity that inspire audiences from their native Canada, and throughout the world. Produced by Ian Prince.

Songlist: Celebration, God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen, A Wish For You, O Come All Ye Faithful, Hold On To The Feeling, Away In A Manager, Make It Easy, Love Peace Harmony, Angels We Have Heard On High, Huron Christmas Carol

Nylons : Harmony, The Christmas Songs

Review: The Nylons are one of the original contemporary a cappella groups. Their many years of experience have produced a vast playbook of stylistic variations, along with consistently excellent musicianship. This subtly-accompanied 1994 release reflects this abundance. The arrangements are generally simple, and the songlist contains the Christmas standards - "Silent Night," "The Christmas Song," "I'll Be Home For Christmas" etc. - plus a Nylons original, "What Does Christmas Mean To Me." The emphasis is on the quality of the voices, as the group members are gifted singers individually as well as collectively, and are able to convey the sentiment of this special time of year with heartfelt feeling. Founding members Arnold Robinson and Claude Morrison are joined by Gavin Hope and Garth Mosbaugh.

Songlist: Carol of the Bells, O Holy Night, Silent Night, The Christmas Song, The Little Drummer Boy, Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas, What Child is This, The First Noel, What Does Christmas Mean to Me, The Secret of Christmas, I'll Be Home for Christmas

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Whisper! Whisper!

Octappella : Christmas

Review: The fourth excellent CD by Utah-based, all male Contemporary octet Octappella, who apply their trademark intricate, tight harmonies, cutting-edge arrangements and bright, solid vocal percussion to 13 Christmas favorites. Jester Hairston's "Mary's Little Boy Child," the wonderful original "Come and See" by group member Matt Cropper (who also does a lot of Octappella's arrangements), a marvelous arrangement of "O Come All Ye Faithful," a sizzling, jazzy rendition of Sammy Cahn's "Let It Snow," Jay Althouse's spirited foot-tapper "Whisper! Whisper!," a pair of innovative Deke Sharon arrangements, "O Come O Come Emanuel" and "Sleigh Ride," "O Holy Night," another nice original, "Christmas Time," by group member Wes Brewer; and the spirited "Child of God" by Emily Crocker are immediate favorites. But "Stars Were Gleaming," "Once in Royal David's City" and "Joy to the World" are also incredible, as if we are hearing these standards for the first time. A brilliant, fun, seemingly effortless, envelope-pushing collection-one of the best we've heard this year!

Songlist: Mary's Little Boy Child, Come And See, O Come All Ye Faithful, Let It Snow, Stars Were Gleaming, Whisper! Whisper!, O Come O Come Emmanuel, Sleigh Ride, O Holy Night, Christmas Time, Child Of God, Once In Royal David's City, Joy To The World

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Vocal Harmony Christmas

Vintage | Christmas around the World | DVDs | Christmas Solo Voice Songbooks | Christmas Harmony Arrangements

Contemporary A Cappella

Contemporary Arrangements All | Male Voices | Female Voices | Mixed Voices

Female Groups | Male Groups | Mixed Voice Groups | Mixed Voice Groups | Contemporary DVDs

Female Contemporary CDs | Male Contemporary CDs | Mixed Voice CDs | Christmas CDs