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A Very Green Christmas is a new age bonanza for those who favor the relaxed atmospheric paintings that the best of that genre can project. Calling themselves the Artists for Earth, the musicians presumably adopted environmental protection as the underlying theme for this project, and the jewel box does contain an insert for the Trees Foundation (on tree-free organic paper). Beyond that, this album gives you plenty of time to contemplate the incredible natural beauties of the planet while you listen to world-renowned new age stars like Suzanne Ciani (piano) and Alex de Grassi (guitar).

Compilations like this enable listeners to enjoy a lovely buffet opportunity, sampling the treats of various superb musicians. That is certainly the case here; the music is rich, and thankfully no calories are involved. The new age musicians excel with diverse instruments, creating a terrific mix of instrumental "voices" celebrating the season. I particularly enjoyed Alex de Grassi's fluid guitar (not to mention Matt Eakle's flute) on Bring a Torch Jeanette Isabella, the lightly funky Little Drummer Boy (featuring Michael Pluznick's percussion), and Kate Price's precious hammered dulcimer on Carol of the Bells. All 15 tracks, including two shiny new creations, are professionally crafted and flawlessly executed.

A Very Green Christmas creates a very relaxed mood; just toss the CD into your audio system and let this generous offering (almost an hour of music) sweep you away. The Artists for Earth provide an elaborate tapestry of sound perfect as the backdrop for your big holiday gathering or intimate get-together. If you enjoy new age stylings, you cannot go wrong with this CD.

--Carol Swanson
(Reviewed in 2006)

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From the liner notes:

When we at Seventh Wave decided to make a holiday album, we wanted to do something more than simply release a compilation of seasonal songs by wonderful artists. We wanted to make a statement about what the holiday season, be it Christmas, Chanukah, or a celebration of the solstice, can mean to people. At its best, the Christmas season brings out giving and sharing feelings in people, and it can prompt them to set aside minor matters and to focus on their higher sensibilities and spirit. Often the music of the season celebrates and reminds us of this phenomenon.

In determining to make an environmentally concerned or "green" album, we thought about the phrase "Peace on Earth, Goodwill to all Mankind." It's a wonderful phrase, and it nicely sums up the higher holiday spirit. We think, however, that it is too limiting. We believe that all living things on this planet share in the blessing of life bestowed by the Earth, and that it is incumbent on us as humans to extend our goodwill to all the flora and fauna of the world. "Peace on Earth, Goodwill to the Earth." It includes us all and sustains us all.

The artists on this album, "Artists for Earth," all devoted themselves to sharing this music with you in this spirit. From all of us then, have a Very Green Christmas!"

Produced by Joe Anderson

Artists for Earth

A Very Green Christmas

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Track List