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Brian Irwin's Christmas in LA is an acoustic folk/pop gem with a gentle soul and terrific harmonies (apparently, Irwin himself provides the lovely additional vocal layers). Born and raised in Vancouver, BC, Irwin relocated to southern California and discovered that "White Christmas" was no longer technically applicable. Not letting the endless heat cramp his holiday spirit, Irwin set out to record his favorite holiday classics and even created one of his own (the title track "Christmas in LA").

This excellent album is all about Irwin, a talented artist who handles the acoustic guitar and pleasing vocals with aplomb. The 12 tracks include 11 seasonal favorites (a nice blend of secular and sacred) and Irwin's own "Christmas in LA," which tells the autobiographical tale of "just a boy from the North, all alone when [he] went forth to catch a dream that got away. . ." The song ends with the sounds of rain and traffic, although I'm thinking that the former is likely fairly rare in southern California. Irwin's songwriting is solid, sweetly-conceived, and well-executed.

I like all the cuts on this recording; special favorites include the comfortable-in-the-saddle song "Christmas for Cowboys" and "Oh Holy Night," which shines in its simplicity. Irwin also does an interesting turn on "The First Noel," providing a spoken narrative throughout the number with choral interludes.

NOTE: This album is absolutely great, but I see that CDBaby's version has a slightly different track list, and the edition on Brian Irwin's own site presents a third track list. For the most part, the differences relate to track order and are not a big deal, but you should know.

Brian Irwin's voice is open and welcoming, and his guitar accompaniment frames the rich harmonies perfectly. Christmas in LA might be just the place to spend your holidays!

--Carol Swanson
(Reviewed in 2005)

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From the liner notes:

Track 2 written by Brian Irwin
Track 4 written by Steve Weinberg
Tracks 1,3 and 5-12 traditional, arranged by Brian Irwin
Performed by Brian Irwin

Brian Irwin

Christmas in LA (And Other Holiday Favorites)

Artist link

Track List