(CHRISTMAS) TEA FOR TWO:
- She & Him ~ A Very She & Him Christmas: Ooo, I've been wanting a nice set of Christmas tunes from Zoe and M., ever since the former was tra la la-ing away in Elf (The Movie - read my review of the musical soundtrack here. it's delightful). And what an elegant collection they have put together. Against the endless collections of festive staples, this comes across as deliciously quirky and effortlessly engaging. All the tracks are just lovely, but some of the stand outs include The Christmas Waltz (a gentle production really enhances the song and provides a wonderful showcase for Zoe's crystalline vocals); Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas/I'll Be Home For Christmas (they slow the tempo down from traditional versions of these songs and it works oh so well - makes it oh so romantic and a little bit alluring. Essential); Rocking Around The Christmas Tree (that kicky beat and some genuinely warming guitar frames Zoe's vocal so it is almost as if she is right there in your living room. Playfully perfect); & Christmas Wish (M gets more of a chance to sparkle on this track and as such, it makes a heavenly contrast for the rest of the album). A delectable selection of tunes :)
- Emmy The Great & Tim Wheeler ~ This Is Christmas: I can't say it was the Christmas album I was expecting this year, but it's one I keep returning to.Emmy continues to showcase herself as a brilliant singer-songwriter and her voice blends exceptionally well with Tim Wheeler (best known from Ash). Because they sometimes use samples from classic Christmas tunes (and always with a devilishly insightful irony), most the tracks on here seem instantly familiar, with a somewhat anti-festive lyrical tinge. That doesn't mean the music isn't a treat, nor that it can't provide a nice diversion and juxtaposition to more traditional fare out there this year. There is one cover version (Marshmallow World) but the rest are all originals that seem destined to become classics in years to come. Highlights include the zippy, peppy Christmas Day (I Wish I Was Surfing) which demonstrates some amazing power chords and an instantaneous chorus; Home For The Holidays (a wistful tune reminiscing on regrets of the ghost of relationships past); and the genuinely witty (Don't Call Me) Mrs Christmas. There's a definite biting wit that runs throughout this album and it works well as an alternative take on the Christmas period. Zombie Christmas forever!!
- Sherrie Austin & Shane Stevens ~ Naughty or Nice: Hurrah! It's a duet from my fave new musical obsession, Shane Stevens and his gal pal Sherrie Austin. Well, to be fair, it's a Sherrie song with Shane along for the ride but that works as well :) It's a country twanged, rollicking affair that has a real playful, frisky vibe to it as Shane & Sherrie sing about whether or not they've been good enough for some Santa approved loving this year. Their voices literally bounce off and then intertwine with each other in a most pleasing fashion, and the chorus is reminiscent of some of the best of Shania Twain. totally radio friendly, totally sing a long after even just one listen. add to this a really charming, tongue in cheek video where Sherrie gets to lounge around a pool looking stunning with some 3/4 naked hunky santas and Shane gets to frolick around his Christmas Tree, also looking stunning (in an ace tux-esque jacket too). Plus there's some festive party dance moves going on in the middle 8. Shake what your mama gave you I say :)
- Caro Emerald & Brook Benton ~ You're All I Want For Christmas: It's been quite the year for Caro with her album taking off all across Europe, her jazz tinged tunes and sultry vocals seducing many a music lover into parting with their cash for her catch collection of songs. She has teamed up with velvet toned Brook Benton for this dreamy, romantic, shuffling ditty with timeless instrumentation and oh so giddy in love lyrics. It's hard to resist the infinite seasonal charms of this tune and makes a great addition to her album at this time of year. Seek out at all costs :)
- Kara DioGuardi & Jason Reeves ~ New York in Winter: This is actually a track from last year that I missed but one that just sparkles so effortlessly and brings such a warming glow each time I listen to it, that I cannot go without bringing your attention to it. It's essentially a Kara dominated vocal, though Jason provides some truly swooning & precise harmonies that enhance the tune tremendously. It details the magic of the festive season in New York, giving a vivid imagery and a splendid romantic vibe. In love with the city, in love with love, in love with your special someone, this song is illuminating & an opportunity for 2 fine vocalists to bring a little of their own magic to the season. Stunning.
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