New Age Christmas

Track Listings

1. Away in a Manger

2. For Those Who Need Homes This Christmas

3. I Will Always Remember My Last Christmas

4. Lisa, It's Christmas

5. It's Gonna Be A New York Christmas

6. Out There In The Snow

7. Silent Night

8. We Three Kings

9. White Christmas

10. O Holy Night

Editorial Reviews
About the Artist
I have been playing the piano since the age of three..writing since fourteen: have two Christmas CD's and one easy listening CD complete as of this year. Write, score and produce all work myself. Have my own studio.

Product Description
Five original Christmas Songs and five traditional Christmas songs.

New Age Christmas,Tom Ferguson,Waverly Records,Christmas / Chanukkah,Miscellaneous,New Age,Pop,Xmas Vocal

New Age Christmas

Tracks:

Thanksgiving
Jesus, Jesus, Rest Your Head
Joy
Prelude
Carol Of The Bells
Night-Part One: Snow
Night-Part Two: Midnight
Night-Part Three: Minstrels
Variations On The Kanon By Pachelbel
The Holly And The Ivy
Some Children See Him
Peace
A Christmas Song
Sleep Baby Mine

Amazon.com essential recording

December holds the distinction of single-handedly putting Windham Hill on the map and being the new age album most likely to find its way into music collections of all ilk. In spite of being relentlessly overplayed during the holidays, the solo piano recording has aged quite well. Winston shapes holiday war-horses and original compositions into a captivating contemporary statement. His spare, understated style captures the feel of the dark season, employing ample resonance to evoke a reflective spaciousness. The album's straightforward simplicity conveys both the celebration and quietude that characterize the best of the Yuletide spirit. --Richard Price

Amazon.com

A quintessential example of George Winston's "folk piano" style, December speaks to the spirit of the season. Mixing traditional carols, a couple of classical works, and his own originals, Winston drops notes with icy clarity into a winter silence, rippling through "Carol of Bells" and coaxing dark, introspective moods from his own suite, "Night." The pianist's liner notes are also a trip as he cites the numerous sources for his music. Who would've thought that the gentle melodies of "Peace" were inspired by the soundtrack to TV's The Outer Limits? This 20th anniversary edition, which includes two bonus tracks, is a vast sonic improvement over previous releases. --John Diliberto

Customer Reviews:

Twenty Years later... Still Excellent!.......2007-05-28

December, Piano Solos: 20th Anniversary Edition, by George Winston is about as close to perfect as you can get. Winston phenomenal interpretations and originals form a masterpeice. Classified as a Holiday album, I agree with many of the other reviewers that this is an album to enjoy all through the year. Although each selection here is very good, Variations On The Kanon By Pachelbel is simply a wonderful piece. I did have the pleasure of seeing George Winston in concert and I would receommend that any fan try to experience the music live with introductions by the pianist.

An outstanding 5 star CD.

a must have for a musical library.......2007-03-26

this cd album is extremely moving and has value because of the evocative power of some of the pieces it contains.

George Winston's December.......2007-03-09

I have a copy of the vinyl since it was released. Though I love the quality of the vinyl, I want to bring December with me wherever I go. The two additional cuts in the anniversary issue are lovely, but I would have been equally happy with the original.

Love this CD.......2007-03-08

Perfect for the holidays (but I listen to it all year)! Anything by George Winston is fabulous.

Multi-mood music.......2007-01-29

I love this CD! The best part about this music is that I can listen to it regardles of what mood I'm in and the music fits perfectly. The Sheet music for "Variations of the Kanon by Pachelbel" is a great bonus.

Average customer rating:

A Listening Pleasure

Christmas Songs
Anuna
Manufacturer: Koch Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:

Essential Anuna
Behind the Closed Eye
Cynara
Sensation
Deep Dead Blue

ASIN: B0002VEQ5M
Release Date: 2004-10-05

Tracks:

AWAY IN A MANGER
THE WEXFORD CAROL
THE FIRST DAY
RIU RIU
SILENT NIGHT
THE COVENTRY CAROL
CODHLAIM GO SUAN
CHRISTMAS DAY IS COME
WINTER, FIRE AND SNOW
PIE JESU
HYMN TO THE VIRGIN
O HOLY NIGHT
THER IS NO ROS

Customer Reviews:

A Listening Pleasure.......2005-12-12

This is a five star album from a five star group. "Away in the Manger" is done in a simple, but exquisite manner. The quality of sound is magnificent. Monica Donlon has a gorgeous voice, well showcased on the Irish "Wexford Carol." "The First Day" adds instrumental interest, a very contemplative piece with voices used as pedal tones. "Riu Riu" is rhythmical and catchy. "Silent Night" is performed at an extremely slow tempo milking the harmonization and classic Anuna sound in a aura of sensual sound. The plaintive melancholy of "The Coventry Carol" aptly suits the text. There are interesting harmonizations and slight tweeks in the melody that separate this arrangement from the average. Four of the next six tracks are original compositions by Michael McGlyn and are a wonderful addition to the Christmas repertoire. The liner notes are ten pages that include the lyrics and brief commentary. Like the album, they are rendered in a classy manner. If you appreciate fine choral music and exceptional Christmas music, this album is a must.

Average customer rating:

Similar to Mehdi???
The best of Lizbeth Scott and Paul Schwartz
Amazing !!!!
To be treasured
Enhanting and Soul-Calming

State of Grace
Various Artists
Manufacturer: Windham Hill Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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State of Grace II: Turning to Peace
Earthbound
State of Grace III
Aria 3: Metamorphosis
Aria

ASIN: B00004YBZS
Release Date: 2000-10-10

Tracks:

Vent Redemptor Gentium - Lisbeth Scott
Amazing Grace - Lisbeth Scott
Miserere - The Joyful Company Of Singers
Veni Creator Spiritus - Lisbeth Scott/Gavyn Wright
Auguries Of Innocence: Part 1 - Gavyn Wright/David Theodore
Auguries Of Innocence: Part 2 - Gavyn Wright/David Theodore
Be Still My Soul - Lisbeth Scott/Paul Schwartz
Angelica - Lisbeth Scott/Gavyn Wright/Jonathan Williams
Simple Gifts - Lisbeth Scott/Andrew Findon/Dirk Campbell
State Of Grace/Miserere (Remix) - Gavyn Wright/Paul Schwartz

Amazon.com

Producer and composer Paul Schwartz thanks many people on State of Grace, but there is one notable exclusion: the 12th-century nun Hildegard von Bingen. Although these aren't her compositions, echoes of her ecstatic hymns and sequences resound throughout Schwartz's latest electronica-classical opus. He composes his own 21st-century gothic chants, which are sung by the impassioned soprano Lisbeth Scott. Scott is a powerful singer who brings a more emotional, perhaps even lustful, tone to these electro-Gregorian evocations, gliding over synthesizer ministrations and violin from the durable Gavyn Wright. Paul Schwartz was also responsible for the Aria CDs, on which he updated operatic arias with dance beats. State of Grace benefits from the less oppressive rhythmic regimentation, letting these soaring melodies ring out. When Schwartz deviates from his gothic inspirations, State of Grace flags, notably on a predictable rendition of "Amazing Grace," a misguided Celtic take on the Shaker hymn "Simple Gifts," and a trio of instrumentals. --John Diliberto

Customer Reviews:

Similar to Mehdi??? .......2007-06-14

I had to laugh at the tag "similar to Mehdi"...that's like saying the Beach Boys are similar to the Monkees....

For a while this CD never left my rotation, and I play a lot of music. I still get a quick thrill of anticipation when I run across it in my stacks of CDs, and decide to play it again.

This is spiritual music, true, but it is modern vocal/electronica as much as anything. It has a beat, it has soul, it is full-toned and gorgeous. But not too sweet, as the female vocalist puts grit into the tunes. Don't be put off by "Amazing Grace": yes, its that song, but not like you've ever heard it before. The arrangements add a new feel, and counterpoint the melody in an interesting and new way. All the "familiar songs" are like that: e.g. "Gift to be Simple (AKA Lord of the dance, the Shaker song)". The original works are similarly wonderful. You will be amazed.

Paul Schwarz has found a niche that I hope he never leaves. If he can continue to match the quality, beauty, composition and orchestration on this effort, he will become one of my top favorite artists of all time. (Other artists I enjoy: Enigma, Mark O'Conner, David Arkenstone, Acoustic Alchemy, Lesiem, Mars Lasar, Secret Garden, Bela Fleck, Moby, Bill Douglas, Dave Grusin, Fourplay, David Benoit, Angels of Venice, Loreena Mckennit, Andreas Vollenweider to name a very few. Mehdi is OK to go to sleep to.)

The best of Lizbeth Scott and Paul Schwartz.......2007-05-28

I was totally hooked on this style of music after hearing this CD. It is incredibly deep and beautiful and lyrical and just the kind of music that brings ancient language and sounds to the 21st century. I have all of the music that Lizbeth Scott records - she is a very good writer of her own contemporary style of music. The entire State of Grace series is incredible but this one is my absolute favorite. Right behind this is Aria 2.

Amazing !!!!.......2007-05-14

I too checked a copy of this out of my local library! I put it in my car stereo and rocketed down the interstate but soon had to pull over. I was crying uncontrollably! I could not believe how beautiful Lizabeth's voice was!
I took my copy to a friend of mine, who has a B&O system and played the masterpiece for him. He was positively blown away and plays his copy every night.
I just bought a copy of the disc along with the second version, which I am listening to now.

To be treasured.......2007-01-29

I Treasure this cd, Always. Every listening moment from beginning to end is a joyful journey. With each passing year, State of Grace grows more precious and meaningful to me. I always know where this cd is and turn to it whenever I anxious or afraid and it's peaceful, lovely grace never fails to flood through me, revitalizing my soul. State of Grace puts me into a state of pure peace and assuring grace. I hope you purchase and enjoy this cd as much as I do, it's just beautiful.

My favorite song on the cd is "Be Still My Soul."
Be still my soul, the Lord is on thy side/ Stand calm within, the storm of grief and pain/ Trust in thy God to order and provide/ Through every change, His faithful light remains/ Be still my soul, the restful peace within/ Through trying times leads to a joyful end
Be still my soul, the wind and waves sure know/ The voice who ruled them when He dwelt below/ Torment and doubt have slipped into the past/ All darkened mysteries shall shine at last/ His burning sun shall melt the ice of fear/ Lift up your heart, His soothing voice to hear
Be still my soul, when light you cannot see/ And trembling skies speak to the fear in thee/ The face of God illuminates the light/ Amending peace and trust in perfect light/ Be still my soul, when tears fall from above/ You are divine, eternally in love.

Soar!
o8E

Enhanting and Soul-Calming.......2006-02-01

I stumbled upon this CD at my library and was enchanted by the angel on the cover so I checked it out last week. It is an amazing, soothing, calming, meditative, soul-stirring rendition of music. The voices on the songs are lyrical, haunting and mesmerizing.

"Be Still My Soul" is like a musical tranquilizer, a heartfelt, beautiful melody that brings tears to my eyes every time I listen to it. It makes me feel as if I'm safely enfolded in God's wings and listening to His heart beating just for me.

I'm eager to find more music like this. I highly recommend this if you love soothing, uplifting music.

Average customer rating:

The Rose by Mediaeval Baebes
The Rose
you can't go wrong with this band
Sounds of Angels and Wild Women
Ravishing!!

The Rose
The Mediæval Bæbes
Manufacturer: Nettwerk Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Mirabilis
Undrentide
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Mistletoe and Wine: A Seasonal Collection
Salva Nos (Save Us)

ASIN: B000063138
Release Date: 2002-03-26

Tracks:

I Am Eve
Glass Window
Slay Me Suddenly
The Snake
The Circle of the Lustful
Laude Novella
There Is No Rose of Swych Vertu
Lick The Maypole
Razreesh
Byrd One Brere
Dringo Bell
The Rose
L'amour De Moi
The Woods and the Rivers Are Silent
Spiriti
The Sour Grove
Blow Northern Wind

Amazon.com

Sumptuous, soothing, sensual--the heavenly voices of the Mediaeval Baebes continue to enchant the ears with the group's fourth album. These talented Baebes (and their main composer Katharine Blake) borrow lyrical material from medieval prose and find inspiration in medieval music. While most of The Rose comprises original pieces, it also includes a medieval English composition, a 14th century French traditional song, and an Italian lauda. The hypnotic, dulcet voices of this nine-piece collective are mesmerizing a cappella, especially with their fluency in multiple languages, but some of these songs feature accompaniment from strings, zither, recorder, acoustic guitar, percussion, and other instruments. The Mediaeval Bloakes Choir even turn in a supporting appearance on the sublime "Dringo Bell." Despite their name, the Mediaeval Baebes create timeless music that, for many listeners, may help fill in the gap left by the dearly departed Dead Can Dance. --Bryan Reesman

Customer Reviews:

The Rose by Mediaeval Baebes.......2007-01-16

I heard one song "Blow Northern Wind" on XM Satellite Radio and fell in love with it. It had a bit of a familiar sounding as to that of The Celtic Women styling. I decided to make the purchase and hoped most of the CD's other songs were comparible. I didn't hear what I expected in the least, but now I have found myself a new love for this new music. The CD has all the words to the songs (both in old mediaval English circa 1300 - 1500 A.D. and it's translation to todays current speaking English) so I actually got a bit of a history lesson along with great music.

The Rose.......2007-01-10

I bought this for my husband for Christmas. He loves their music!

you can't go wrong with this band.......2006-06-29

Soaring vocals, period (correct for the time) instruments, and more as you would expect from this group, but a wider range of music and tempos than is usual for one of their CDs. This Cd gives you a good overview of the styles and voices that Medieval Babes is capable of, but is *not* a consistant album, more like a sampler.
Buy any one of their albums, any one at all, and you will be hooked. Any group that can manage to get me, and my husband!, singing along to a medieval tune in Latin has really got something going for it.
This was the second album of theirs that I purchased, the first being Mistletoe and Wine. A much wider array of music, obviously, than their seasonal Cd, The Rose is not one of my favorites of their albums, but even so I recomend it!

Sounds of Angels and Wild Women.......2006-06-13

I really REALLY love this CD. I've been listening to the Amazon.com music clips for weeks and finally bought it. It is a gem. The music is absolutely breathtakingly beautiful.

This is music (with the possible exception of DRINGO BELL) that you could let your grandma listen to and she'd think they were sacred songs.

But keep grandma away from the lyrics! My goodness--these sweet and innocent sounding women are singing some very sexually graphic words but they are cleverly disguised in foreign and medievel languages. THE SOUR GROVE is all about female genitalia and the first song they sing is I AM EVE--a fact which they seem to be quite proud.

Ravishing!!.......2006-03-15

This group is simply phenomenal, and this is the best of their amazing output. It is gorgeous, ravishing, creative, original, inventive, and a whole lot more. But it is too short. It could be twice the length and still be too short!!

The music is hard to pigeonhole, but I would call it "contemporary", but strongly inspired by the spirit, rhythm, and melodies of medieval music (but one could easily switch the terms "contemporary" and medieval in the above sentence and still be equally accurate). All the songs are evocative and transporting, but Dringo Bell is the apogee of the disc.

This disc is also a celebration of the glory of the feminine. Truly so in an aural sense. But a quick visit to the website of the group shows this to be as true visually. For that reason also, the Baebes are unparalled.

Average customer rating:

Completely satisfied
Holiday music with that extra magic - creepiness!
Another brilliant Nox Arcana CD!
Music to be enchanted by
Very Good, Different

Winter's Knight
Nox Arcana
Manufacturer: Monolith Graphics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Transylvania
Darklore Manor
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ASIN: B000ALIUR4
Release Date: 2005-07-25

Tracks:

Vigil
Ghosts of Christmas Past
Ebonshire
Solitude
Crystal Forest
First Snow
Evening Star
Reflections of Long Ago
December Winds
Phantom Toccata
Hallowed Ruins
Gregorian Hymn
Spirit of the Season
Coventry Carol
Lullaby
Winters Knight
Past Time with Good Company
God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen
Veni, Veni, Emannuel
Redemption
Carol of the Bells

Product Description

Nox Arcana weaves a musical ghost story with this haunting collection of original melodies, symphonic orchestrations, and Gothic renditions of traditional carols. Winter's Knight contains 21 tracks and over 60 minutes of darkly enchanting music to celebrate the spirit of the season.

Customer Reviews:

Completely satisfied.......2007-04-01

I am very satisfied with this product and recommend it to anyone who likes instrumental and haunting melodies.

Holiday music with that extra magic - creepiness!.......2007-01-26

If you are in a holiday mood, but are heartily fed up with Irish (or even worse: Mariah Carey!) Christmas songs, then you might want to consider this album. It is not a soundeffect album, nor is it program music. A final touch is that it is not cheaply produced, as some more traditional holiday albums.
The music conveys a feeling of cold, dark, and immensly lonely winter. The Christmas is there, but there are undertows of older and more sinister rituals, and whispers call the more unwary listeners to join in...
This album could be a very good way to spice up the celebrations.

Another brilliant Nox Arcana CD!.......2007-01-03

Nox Arcana's versatility has made them a tough act to follow. Whether it be a musical journey into the foreboding land of vampires (Transylvania) or a sinister carnival with a bloody history (Carnival of Lost Souls) or any of their other forays into gothic imaginings, Nox Arcana has taken each concept and breathed impressive, symphonic life into it. Their CDs truly are mini symphonies, with astounding musicianship and intricate orchestrations.

In Winter's Knight, Nox Arcana presents a moody, elegant collection of holiday-themed songs that captures the more mystical, meditative side of Christmas. The CD's strong medieval/classical flavor is refreshing, particularly since most Christmas music nowadays seems dominated by more modern songs. Joseph Vargo and William Piotrowski offer great new arrangements of classic pieces like "Veni, Veni, Emmanuel" as well as many of their own moving compositions, such as the memorably haunting "Crystal Forest" and the chilling piano-dominated "Evening Star." Guest vocalist Michelle Belanger also contributes a lovely interpretation of the holiday standard "Past Time With Good Company" and Jeff Endemann's vocal work on "Coventry Carol" is likewise a highlight.

While most Christmas music is, unfortunately, either infantile and annoying or overdone, Winter's Knight provides a refreshing change of piece full of musical elegance and mystical beauty.

Music to be enchanted by.......2006-12-25

As mesmerizing as falling snow, this poetic and magickal soundscape creates a wonderland of lavish treats befitting the Holiday Season. Haunting and sophisticated, there's a certain luster to these songs that reflects the gothically romantic luxury only Nox Arcana can deliver. The addition of neo-bard, Jeff Endemann's spellbinding voice on "Coventry Carol" delivers an extra gift of warmth for those chilly Yuletide evenings. The original score by Vargo and Piotrowski interspersed with classic carols and a booklet of eye-candy artwork by Joseph Vargo makes this a perfect fit for any Holiday Collection, so fill your wassail cup, pull up some moonlight and breathe in the wonder of Winter Knights.

Very Good, Different.......2006-11-04

The idea behind this CD and the music itself are a breath of fresh air in the stagnant holiday music scene. Dark and evocative, it pushes aside the sugarplums and saccharine we're all used to. However, the production leaves quite a bit to be desired. It's all done with computers - the choral parts are lacking in fullness, I can't always tell what the stringed "instruments" are supposed to be, and rather than cadences that would give finality to the piece, the tracks often come to a sudden stop. 3 1/2 stars.

Average customer rating:

Sonic Yulescaping
Enya Christmas Music
Quality...
Total ripoff
Just Lovely

Christmas Secrets
Enya
Manufacturer: Wea International
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Amarantine

ASIN: B000JVSUXY
Release Date: 2006-11-27

Tracks:

Adeste, Fideles
Magic of the Night
We Wish You a Merry Christmas
Christmas Secrets

Customer Reviews:

Sonic Yulescaping.......2007-02-20

This is a celebrative, yet meditative, collection of songs that elicits the beauty of the Yuletide season. The only 'problem' I find with it is that it is too short, but at least it's longer than her other Christmas EPs. The textures and nuances of melody and arrangement make it an engaging offering.

Enya Christmas Music.......2007-01-27

It's a great addition to both a Christmas Music collection or Enya collection!

Quality..........2007-01-08

The other reviewer seems to miss the point - most artists today put tons of music, so you can get your money's worth, but where's the quality? Better four good songs than fifteen lousy ones.

This is an exquisite EP, not anything different from other Enya works, but that is a good thing - she has never put out anything but good music. So you are sure that when you buy an Enya CD, you don't have to worry if you will not like it. It is always mysterious, otherworldly and lovely. Great present for the Holidays or any other time.

Total ripoff.......2006-12-22

I love Enya, so I sent this CD to my sisters for Christmas, and ordered one for myself. I was horrified to discover that the CD contains four songs, about 15 minutes of music. What a paltry, humiliating Christmas present for my sisters, when I thought I was sending them something so special!

Just Lovely .......2006-12-19

This is the import version of a U.S. release. The U.S. release is only available in Target stores and at the NBC store in Rockefeller Center in New York City (and likely other NBC stores, if there are any).

If you watched the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree lighting this year, Enya sang "Magic Of The Night" on the air. That is the highlight of this CD and is such a pleasure to hear over and over. It caught my ear immediately, yet Amazon music searches in early December were not turning up any new Enya releases. Was quite frustrated until I discovered that sales were NBC & Target in-store only.

U.S. version contains six tracks: 4 new holiday recordings and 2 previously-released. All are very well done and a joyful addition to her holiday music repertoire. The six tracks are: "Adeste Fideles" (new), "Magic Of The Night" (new), "We Wish You A Merry Christmas" (new), "Christmas Secrets" (new), "Amid The Falling Snow" (from her Amarantine CD) and "Oiche Chuin (Silent Night").

The CD's U.S. title is "NBC Sounds Of The Season: The Enya Collection". It is more than worth the $6.99 that the NBC store and Target stores are charging. If you like Enya, you will like this CD.

Average customer rating:

Old Christmas Carols
A Haunting Experience
Let all that are to mirth inclined

To Drive the Cold Winter Away
Loreena Mckennitt
Manufacturer: Verve
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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An Ancient Muse
Elemental
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The Book of Secrets

ASIN: B000J233TY
Release Date: 2006-11-14

Tracks:

In Praise Of Christmas
The Seasons
The King
Banquet Hall
Snow
Balulalow
Let Us The Infant Greet
The Wexford Carol
The Stockford Carol
Let All That Are To Mirth Inclined

Customer Reviews:

Old Christmas Carols.......2007-01-12

Wonderful in style and execution; I thought that I had heard the best but I was wrong. Anything from Loreena McKennitt is truly an amazing experience!

A Haunting Experience.......2006-12-12

The best word I can come up with for Loreena McKennitt's voice is "haunting". I almost said ethereal and that would have been correct too but I chose haunting because it is one that keeps coming back to me. It makes me wonder if I really heard some of the things it said. In this context, that is a good thing.

This is a collection of "Christmas" songs but it is definitely not a collection of carols. They are songs of midwinter and the voice and instrumentation conveys that theme as well as the lyrics. They would not be out of place in a medieval hall.

This is not a somber collection but it might well be perceived as such by someone expecting ditties about reindeer with red noses or jolly old elves. It is a joyous collection with the joy is sedate, as is the whole album. That does not stop it from being a masterful work of art.

Try this one and let it haunt your memories through the winter and the rest of the year.

Let all that are to mirth inclined.......2006-11-15

Most Christmas albums sound tailor-made for mall muzak -- bland and recycled, with the same ol' songs about bells, Santa Claus, and snow. Loreena McKennitt breaks the mold with "To Drive the Cold Winter Away," an enchantingly wintry collection with muted instrumentation, and a classic feel.

It opens with the ethereal "In Praise of Christmas," a languid little harp ballad, and the rich "Seasons," which sounds like a solo performance at a medieval banquet. "Come all you lads and lasses, I'd have you give attention/To these few lines I'm about to write here,/'Tis of the four seasons of the year that I shall mention,/The beauty of all things doth appear," McKennitt sings in her rolling voice.

Those songs set the tone of the remaining songs -- pretty, airy wintry ballads accompanied mostly by harp. A few exceptions are sprinkled through it, such as the icily pretty instrumental "Banquet Hall," languid harp music in "Snow," and a few songs like "Let All That Are to Mirth Inclined" are done without instrumentation at all.

It's not hard to get sick of the endless repetitions of "Jingle Bells," "The Christmas Song" and "Let It Snow." It comes to the point where people get violent at mall loudspeakers. Loreena McKennitt's "To Drive the Cold Winter Away" is an antidote of sorts -- she dips into traditional Christmas and winter ballads from England, Scotland and Ireland, sometimes going back hundreds of years.

On the other hand, the sound quality is worse than McKennitt's other albums, particularly her a capella songs. While her singing cannot be faulted, she sang them in an old Irish abbey, which causes a weird echo effect in some songs. Her voice doesn't sound quite on top form in these.

However, the instrumentation often covers this effect -- it's much more minimal than in most of Mckennitt's work, often with her merely playing harps, and occasionally a tin whistle or accordian. The ethereal, minimal instrumentation gives the feeling of chilliness and beauty in a winter forest.

It's a bit hard to sing some old ballads, especially since many do not have specific tunes assigned to them. McKennitt does well at this; despite a few awkward moments, she sings richly and soulfully. "The King," her duet with Cedric Smith, is not so great, however since Smith's mediocre voice often blots out hers completely. Aside from that, her voice lilts lightly over the songs about Christ, snow, and firesides during the winter.

"To Drive the Cold Winter Away" is a truly beautiful collection of traditional Christmas songs. Despite the occasional echo problems, McKennitt's sweet voice and music bring out an older, richer side of Christmas.

Average customer rating:

Excellent CD
Good for any age
Absolutely Gorgeous! The Best Piano Solo Album Of All-Time.
It's Christmas in July
Catkin's reveiw

December
George Winston
Manufacturer: Windham Hill Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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All The Seasons Of George Winston: Piano Solos

ASIN: B000000NFI
Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

Thanksgiving
Jesus, Jesus, Rest Your Head
Joy
Prelude
Carol of the Bells
Night: Part One: Snow
Night: Part Two: Midnight
Night: Part Three: Minstrels
Variations On The Kanon By Pachelbel
The Holly And The Ivy
Some Children See Him
Peace

Amazon.com essential recording

Customer Reviews:

Excellent CD.......2007-06-11

December by George Winston is about as close to perfect as you can get. Winston's phenomenal interpretations and originals form a masterpeice. Classified as a Holiday album, this is an album to enjoy all through the year. Although each selection here is very good, Variations On The Kanon By Pachelbel is simply a wonderful piece. I did have the pleasure of seeing George Winston in concert and I would receommend that any fan try to experience the music live with introductions by the pianist. I would also recommend December, Piano Solos: 20th Anniversary Edition which is an updated version of this excellent CD.

An outstanding 5 star CD.

Good for any age.......2007-04-09

There is something in this music which has been with ever since I listened to it first time back in 1987. Soundtrack of my life...

Absolutely Gorgeous! The Best Piano Solo Album Of All-Time........2005-12-30

I honestly don't feel it is even the slightest of exaggerations to label this recording as the Greatest Piano Solo Album Of All-Time. Even at nearly a quarter of a century old, it has only become better with age. I was first introduced to "December" at the mature age of 10, and I fell in love with it immediately. My mother would play it at Christmas, time and time again, and oddly enough I never tired of the haunting melodies. In the nearly twenty years since, I've found that while much of the music has a holiday theme, I enjoy listening to the tracks year-round. And in all that time I've found nothing that even comes close to matching the beauty, feeling or power of this exquisite creation. Winston pours such depth and feeling into each compilation that, if you're not careful, you find yourself begin to sway with the melody, much the same fashion as a teenager headbanging to a punk-rock band. But of course this is much more subtle and sophisticated. Truth be told, I credit Winston (and to some degree Chip Davis) with my desire to learn the piano. Fortunately my wife had the foresight this year to do what I could not bring myself to do, and presented me with piano lessons for Christmas. My one desire is to someday be good enough to eek out an intelligible semblance of this timeless album for family and friends at the holidays... but I won't hold my breath. Winston is a Master, and I don't believe I have either the time, nor the talent, to hold even the dimmest of candles to his "bright as noon-day" masterpiece. Enjoy!

It's Christmas in July.......2004-07-27

I am not really big on instrumental music. A lot of it reminds me of that cheeseball Yanni. My favorite instrumentalist is George Winston. I absolutely love his album "December". I have always loved this particular album for as long as I can remember. I remember borrowing my mom's cassette copy of this album several years ago and I still have it to this very day. It is truly one of my personal favorite albums in my entire (almost) 30 years of life. No matter what time of year it is, I can always throw it in and chill to the music. The music is so enchanting. I especially love "Jesus, Jesus, Rest Your Head". It is one of my personal favorite songs on the album. It truly moves me emotionally. George's piano playing is flawless. It flows like a running stream. I love the simplicity of the music which is just George's piano playing. I think having other instruments would have convoluted the music. I also adore the variations on Pachelbel's "Canon", my personal favorite baroque movement. George does a lovely job with his unique interpretation of the song. After eight hours at the office and listening to my goth/industrial/ebm/techno cds, it is nice to listen to more soothing music to relax too.

Catkin's reveiw.......2003-03-14

i think dat is a very good cd, especially for christmas and we put it on whenever we hav a family time.
Thank-you george!

Average customer rating:

The Beauty of the Winter Solstice Season Incarnate!
This was the most popular gift I gave for Christmas
This CD just flew off the shelves last Christmas and I can see why
Great Christmas Songs
WOW~

An Irish Christmas
Moya Brennan
Manufacturer: Sparrow
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Signature

ASIN: B000FVGNLY
Release Date: 2006-09-26

Tracks:

Carol Of The Bells
The Wexford Carol
Deck The Halls
Do You Hear/Don Oiche Ud I Mbeithil
God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen
Gabriel's Message
Joy To The World
What Child Is This?
In The Bleak Midwinter
Angels We Have Heard On High
In Dulci Jubilo
Oiche Chuin (Silent Night)

Amazon.com

Blending moods of reverence and quiet good cheer, Moya Brennan's first seasonal recording is a dignified, easy-to-like assortment of familiar standards and a few lesser-known carols, all well suited to her crystalline voice and the recording's prevailing themes of innocence and humble joy. Celtic influences and instruments at times serve more as adornments than centerpieces (e.g., "Deck the Halls" exudes a sort of Fleetwood Mac vibe), yet the disc's most distinctive tracks tap more deeply into Brennan's Irish roots, particularly the ethereal textures and vocal tenderness exhibited on "The Wexford Carol" (a carol Brennan traces to 12th-century Ireland). Beyond the tympani-powered opening track, "Carol of the Bells," the 47-minute disc embraces the season's softer, gentler moods, concluding with a lovely, unhurried version of "Oíche Chúin" ("Silent Night"). Here, Brennan--the principal voice of Clannad and the elder sibling of Enya--breathes the lyrics as much as she sings them (it's one of just two tracks sung in her native tongue), then closes by adding the voices of her own children. Pleasant listening. --Terry Wood

Customer Reviews:

The Beauty of the Winter Solstice Season Incarnate!.......2007-02-20

I bought this CD without even previewing it, as I'm a Moya fan. Even still, I was blown away by the beauty of it, the simplicity of the vocal lines, and the intricate way in which the tunes are arranaged. This is not your ordinary 'holiday' clone CD; with one more boring recording of the same dozen or so overdone Christmas carols! All of the tracks offer refreshing new 'advents' into the wonder of the Winter Solstice Season. A haunting, blissful album!

This was the most popular gift I gave for Christmas.......2007-02-07

I was in Barnes and Noble when they were playing this and I was enchanted and bought a copy. One of my friends heard it and was likewise enchanted. By the time I was finished sharing it I had handed out 14 copies to friends, many of whom cited this as their favorite Christmas album this year! Absolutely lovely voice and unique, so that it's not just another version of the same songs sung by a different artist. You can tell that she is moved by what she sings and also that some of these songs are definitely being sung with the heart of a mother singing to her children and wanting them to feel warmth and magic of the Christmas season.

This CD just flew off the shelves last Christmas and I can see why.......2007-01-18

My order came in late, January, to be exact--but I'm still listening to Moya's Christmas CD and loving it. Moya's voice is one of the most incredible I've ever heard. If I were to be asked for a suggestion for future CD's, I'd like to hear more in Gaelic.

Great Christmas Songs.......2007-01-18

I love all this music by the Celtic Woman. I purchased this and one other Christmas cd. I also purchased the Celtic Woman cd. The most beautiful music.

WOW~.......2007-01-16

These ladies are so entertaining, whether you get to see them on TV or just listen to them on a CD!!! I will be lucky enough in May to get to see them in person! This CD brings back many wonderful childhood Christmas memories.

Average customer rating:

igottaview
Great Traditional Christmas Music
Christmas -- CD
Music lover
Mannheim Steamroller

Christmas
Mannheim Steamroller
Manufacturer: American Gramaphone
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B0000005MT
Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

Deck The Halls
We Three Kings
Bring A Torch, Jeanette, Isabella
Coventry Carol
Good King Wenceslas
Christmas Sweet: Wassail, Wassail
Christmas Sweet: Carol Of The Birds
Christmas Sweet: I Saw Three Ships
Christmas Sweet: God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen
God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen
Stille Nacht

Amazon.com

Depending on your point of view, Christmas is either a quaint sonic time capsule extracted from the mid-1980s or a timeless holiday classic. The first in what has become an ongoing series of Mannheim Steamroller Christmas recordings, this CD has sold millions, which seems to indicate that it is everything its advertising claims it to be: "America's favorite Christmas music." The powerfully successful Mannheim Steamroller formula, conceived by group mastermind Chip Davis, involves a blend of Renaissance-flavored moods and instrumentation (strings, harpsichord, flute, French horn) intertwined with polite pop instrumental music. At times, the analog synthesizers used in this 1984 recording sound dated and a little cheesy, particularly on "Deck the Halls" and "Good King Wenceslas." But it is a forgivable offense since live instruments and the earnest but ersatz medieval atmosphere they evoke dominate 8 of the 11 tracks. As pleasant and soothing as a Willard Scott birthday wish, Christmas does offer one selection that truly merits "classic" status: the reverent, prayerful, slow-motion interpretation of "Silent Night" ("Stille Nacht") for piano and strings that closes the album--a beautiful and heart-touching work. This selection alone makes this album worth owning. --Terry Wood

Customer Reviews:

igottaview.......2007-03-08

GREAT ALBUM! Not quite as BIG as Trans Siberian but still a keeper!

Great Traditional Christmas Music.......2007-01-19

I have this CD on cassett when it first came out and wore out the cassett, I am so glad I found it on CD. it is wonderful and a must listen to on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day for our family. It's part of our tradition.

Christmas -- CD.......2007-01-18

The service of geting the CD was fast, to the extent that I can wait 2 days to get it. The price was right, saved some money, it was new, sealed and received in perfect condition at a time of year when government
mail service can be damaging. --Roger W.

Music lover.......2007-01-12

This Xmas album is a great cd to add to my Christmas collection.

Mannheim Steamroller.......2007-01-09

This is really the best Christmas music ever. Really makes you want Christmas all the time.

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