Our Review
Hearing Daniel Ho play Pachelbel's Canon in D on ukulele put me in mind of how simple the season ought to be. One reason I love Christmas music so much is that it is prescriptive--it provides positive directions for thought and action. Whether or not one celebrates the Christian holiday, the solstice, or the arrival of Santa, one is reminded of giving, of forgiveness, of renewal. Ho's authoritative touch provides one of the best prescriptions around. Whether accompanied on piano and guitar or alone with four strings, Daniel Ho reminds me of the true spirit of the season.
He brings his craft from Hawaii, and a fine craft it is. At the same time, I was pleased to see that he did not go in for any sort of touristy Hawaiian kitch. His music honors his heritage without exploiting it. I enjoyed the understated beauty of the arrangements. And although most of the CD is instrumental, listeners will be pleased when they hear guest vocalist Bridgette Bryant as she sings a cool jazz Christmas Lullaby to close out this fine offering.
--Richard Banks
(Reviewed in 1999)
No More
Daniel Ho
Christmas Ukulele Style
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Label: Aire
Length: 30 minutes
Genre: Hawaiian
Release: 1998
Track List
| Song Title |
|---|
| Away in a Manger |
| Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring |
| Silent Night |
| What Child is This |
| Trepak-Russian Dance |
| The First Nöel |
| Joy to the World |
| The Christmas Song |
| Canon in D |
| Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas |
| Christmas Lullaby |