This new release is the Christmas equivalent of The King’s Singers’ recent release, Great American Songbook. Paying homage to the a capella group’s heritage while still acknowledging their modern passion for swing, the group mixes Christmas classics like “In the Bleak Midwinter,” and “The Holly and the Ivy,” with modern tunes such as “Winter Wonderland,” “Frosty the Snowman,” and “Sleigh Ride.” The group’s favorite arrangers have reworked all of these tunes specifically for the ensemble- Berty Rice, Keith Roberts, and Alexander L’Estrange.
REVIEW:
The latest King’s Singers CD, a seasonal celebration from Signum Classics, mixes well-known American carols with some from “the other side of the pond.” The result is aRead more blend that... is every bit as smooth as a perfectly prepared cup of hot cocoa, and just as warming.
The exceptional adaptability of the King’s Singers is shown in the handling here of songs as different as
Santa Claus Is Coming to Town and
White Christmas, either of which could easily be a throwaway and neither of which is. The group’s beautiful melding is apparent in different ways in numbers such as
The First Nowell and
Silent Night. The King’s Singers simply have a way of bringing joy to the world.
Holiday Inn: White Christmasby Irving Berlin Orchestra/Ensemble:
The King's Singers
Period: 20th Century Written: 1942; USA
Customer Reviews
Average Customer Review: ( 2 Customer Reviews )
Delightful Christmas CD!February 1, 2017By C. Pryor (Campbell, CA)See All My Reviews"The King's Singers are better than ever! We've been waiting a long time for another Christmas CD from them. Lots of variety, their wonderful touches of humor, plus dynamite arrangements. Do add this to our holiday collection! Musically and vocally, no group is better."Report Abuse
Lovely Christmas albumJanuary 22, 2017By Jean G. (San Anselmo, CA)See All My Reviews"I ordered through my local classical music radio station which receives a portion of the cost. Arkiv processed my order swiftly and this CD became my personal favorite for the past Christmas season-as a long time fan I was delighted to have another King's Singers holiday CD after a decade long wait. Nice mix of popular secular pieces and sacred traditional carols."Report Abuse