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Famous for being a member of the Three Tenors, Ronan Tynan is an inspirational Renaissance Irishman. Born with lower limb disabilities, he had both legs amputated as a young man. Not letting anything slow him down, Tynan became a multiple award-winning athlete in the International Paralympics (capturing several world records). As a tenor, Tynan possesses a wonderfully rich and sweetly clear voice that has pleased and moved diverse audiences; the artist sang Amazing Grace at President Ronald Reagan's funeral and has provided the opening action for the Belmont Stakes and the New York Yankees. He's quite a guy, and the artist reinforces his reputation as an "every man's classical tenor" on this fine holiday release, I'll Be Home for Christmas.

The album graphics are terrific. As you can see, the cover art features a lovely winter scene with a welcoming entryway covered in holiday lights--you just want to run up the walkway and go inside! Inside the jewel box are four fun photos of Tynan wearing a Santa cap and an elfish grin. You've got to love a classical tenor with a sense of humor. The extensive liner notes also include photos and paintings, as well helpful background information.

The Czech Philharmonic Chamber Orchestra provides lush backdrops to Tynan's stunning vocals. Although the artist prefers full orchestral support, I could not help but wonder how some of these carols would sound with the tenor's fabulous voice presented a cappella. My favorite track here is easily the longest (6:43); the Walking in the Air/Do You Hear What I Hear? medley intertwines the two numbers into a breathtakingly beautiful tapestry. The opening lines of Howard Blake's ethereal piece ("We're walking in the air, we're floating in the moonlit sky, the people far below are sleeping as we fly") had me flying Peter Pan-style through the starry sky. Bliss!

Tynan personalized the CD with two new songs, including a humorous track entitled The Paddy and the Yank; he somehow manages to blend hard drinking with patriotism and religious fervor. The artist, who claims New York City as his second home, also includes Fairytale of New York.

What can I say? Ronan Tynan is a bona fide Irish original. He possesses a fabulous voice and a generous helping of humanity. For anyone who enjoys a classy--yet friendly--classical tenor for the holidays, I'll Be Home for Christmas is an easy choice.

--Carol Swanson
(Reviewed in 2007)

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From the liner notes:

Czech Philharmonic Chamber Orchestra
Arnie Roth, Conductor

Unlike the past when deciding to do an album, this Christmas album was fairly straightforward. I knew that I wanted to share with all of you my Christmas favourites as well as introduce some new songs. I felt very strongly about having a full orchestra, as this is the way my albums have been produced in the past. My dear friend, Bill Lewis, who has embarked on all my recent album endeavours, sings with me on Silent Night, which I feel really enhances the whole album and makes it a little more special.

The music of Christmas time is very special. Like Santa, it visits only once a year. The songs for this album are my own seasonal favourites. The Spirit of the season has also prompted me to write two new songs, one which I'm sure you will get a right good kick out of.

This album is my special gift of Christmas song to you. And I also dedicate this album to the memory of my wonderful mother, Therese Tynan, who always lit the candle of my dreams and helped make my life what it is today.
--Ronan Tynan

From the Website:

Ronan Tynan is truly a modern day "Renaissance Man." Faced with numerous challenges throughout his well documented life, he has persevered with enormous passion and zest. He attributes his success to his faith and the knowledge that the Man Above guides him through every door he opens. Introduced to international audiences as a member of the Irish Tenors, Tynan quickly became known for his unique voice and irresistible appeal. Following his mother's advice to always follow your dreams, Tynan decided to launch a solo career, and has achieved the fame and adoration that could have existed only in the farthest reaches of his dreams.

Ronan Tynan

I'll Be Home for Christmas

Artist site

Track List