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The Sounds of Christmas 2009 is a fun and funky compilation by a new label dedicated to holiday music (SOC Music = Sounds of Christmas Music). Compilations can be a hoot, providing tremendous diversity of tone, time frame, and talent. That's certainly the case here--you find everything from an "ancient" recording by Huey Lewis and the News (Winter Wonderland) to 2009 productions by brand new talents. Compilations often include selections that the listener would normally not purchase separately, and that exposure broadens musical horizons in a satisfying way.

The album opens very well; the first three tracks are home runs. Lis Soderberg sings All I Need, an easy-going anthem about how Soderberg has everything she wants and needs at home with her family--she just wants a happy new year as the December snows fall. Many would agree with that sentiment, and Soderberg's jazzy vocal conveys sincerity and optimism in a lovely fashion without saccharine sweetness. The second track is a refreshed relic by Huey Lewis and the News, a great blast from the blast. An old recording (never previously released), Lewis and his group do a spirited a cappella rendering of Winter Wonderland. The sound quality is relatively good, and the fellows seem to be having fun. And then there's Christmas Vacation, the theme song from National Lampoon's satire of "perfect" holidays. Lisa Kessler, the wife of the record label's co-founder, does a very nice job here; you will likely find yourself singing along.

With 15 tracks covering the gamut from pop to jazz, rock, and hip-hop, The Sounds of Christmas 2009 is an amalgam of three parts this and four parts that. The recipe largely works, and the main ingredient is pop. I particularly enjoyed the introduction to unfamiliar material. For example, Judy Pancoast's House on Christmas Street is a great ode to that "certain house" on the block that engages in holiday decorations overkill. The song takes a relatively balanced approach, poking fun at the over-the-top compulsion, but acknowledging the talking-point "benefits" associated with huge holiday displays. On When I Hear a Christmas Song, Dennis DeYoung delivers a sweet love sonnet, describing in heartfelt terms the emotions he feels when he hears a holiday tune. A finalist in the Calgary idol competition, young Annie Pattison offers a pleasing, innocent rendition of Love for Christmas.

My favorite cut is probably Hayseed Dixie cutting loose on Misty Wonderland Hop, a rock/bluegrass bastardization of Winter Wonderland with cool banjo riffs and shifting rhythms. Really unique! Richard Marx's big, bad, bluesy Santa Claus Is Back in Town is another plus.

For most, however, the biggest news will be the inclusion of William Shatner on Good King Wenceslas. No, Shatner is not singing; this is the patented Shatner narrative, and he has an impressive voice and delivery. Still, given Shatner's reputation for comedy, dramatic flair, and eccentricity, it is difficult to discern whether he is performing for laughs or in all seriousness. Either way, it is a compelling listen--and amusing, whether intentionally or not. It's definitely worth exploring and may make you think differently about this well-worn holiday favorite.

By the way, proceeds from the sale of this release will benefit Shatner's Hollywood Charity Horseshow, which provides support for children who have special needs. Isn't that what the holiday season is all about?

Seeking something unusual for the holidays? Tired of the "same old, same old" Christmas offerings, and hoping for a release that reflects something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue? Then The Sounds of Christmas 2009 may be just the quirky breath of fresh air that will blow you away!

--Carol Swanson
(Reviewed in 2009)

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From the liner notes:

Compiled by Ken Kessler
Produced by John Lane


From the artist's Website:

A terrific array of artists to benefit William Shatner's Hollywood Charity Horseshow, featuring exclusive Christmas songs from William Shatner, Huey Lewis and the News, Stephen Bishop and many, many more!

Various Artists

The Sounds of Christmas 2009

Artist link

Track List