 |
|
Various If you're looking for an alternative, rock and roll Christmas, you've come to the right place. If you're looking for a traditional Christmas album in every sense of the word--don't touch this CD. Once again, BEC has put out the alternative Christmas compilation of the year. This year they've snagged Sixpence None the Richer, MxPx, All Star United, Starflyer 59 and more (complete listing below). None of the songs are done in a traditional style, with a little bit of everything including ska, punk, techno, rhythm & blues and rock & roll. From Hangnail's punk version of "O Little Town of Bethlehem," to Starflyer 59's soft, wispy 'Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas' to Flight 180's (formerly 180) ska/swing/punk "O Come All Ye Faithful," the album is anything but what you'd expect. If you buy the CD for only one song, it would have to be Sixpence None the Richer's 'You're A Mean One Mr. Grinch.' Their oddball rendition is just too much fun, even if it was recorded several years ago. The Normals make an impressive appearance with one of the slower songs on the album, an acoustic 'Peace Child (O Come Emmanuel).' Plankeye's 'Jesu Bambino (The Infant Child)' offers an enjoyable mix of piano and electric guitar. On the downside, the production feels hasty on a few tracks, especially the quirky All Star United number. It's not nearly as good as last year's Happy Christmas, and probably won't enjoy such a broad appeal--but it is a Christmas CD for those who shudder at the thought of one more Amy Grant Christmas album. It's a fun Christmas CD, and when you're celebrating the birth of your Lord, isn't that what matters? (Kevin H.) Happy Christmas
Vol. 2 includes: |
|
 |