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Originally recorded and released in 1960, The Christmas
Song is like most other Christmas albums--it contains holiday songs adorned with plenty of
strings, bells and choral arrangements. After a few spins, you may find yourself swept up
in the holiday spirit and end up singing along. Or, like me, you may elect to turn it off.
The problem with The Christmas Song is that Cole's approach to the material is pleasant,
but not memorable or infectious. Ironically, the one jewel on this disc, was recorded 34
years after his death--or rather, re-recorded. In 1999, daughter Natalie, an accomplished
vocalist in her own right, sings a posthumous duet with her dad on The Christmas Song.
Backed by the London Symphony Orchestra, Natalie's vocals are seamlessly woven into her
father's, giving the classic song a new and lush life. Just as the Cole's 1991 duet
"Unforgettable" enchanted fans of both singers, this holiday duet should be as
popular, if not more.
M
December 1999
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