The Coffeehouse Chronicles: Christmas In Autumn
Every year on November 1st, we watch Halloween candy go on clearance as stores bring out Christmas supplies. Santa Claus trinkets and candy canes are laid out while decorations and lights are strung from buildings in shopping centers. This year, the music world decided to start prepping for the holiday fairly early as well. In the last few weeks Justin Bieber, Michael Buble, and She & Him have each released their brand new Christmas albums.
Justin Bieber - Under The Mistletoe | Release Date: 11.1.11
Justin Bieber released his Christmas album, “Underneath the Mistletoe” this past Tuesday November 1st, 2011. The album includes seven of Bieber’s original Christmas songs and six covers of popular Christmas music. Bieber duets with several artists including: Usher, Boyz II Men, Mariah Carey, Busta Rhymes, and The Band Perry. Also included, is an acappella version of the song “Fa La La” featuring Boyz II Men. A high quality recording of Stevie Wonder’s “Someday at Christmas” covered by Bieber when he was only thirteen years old finishes off the album.
Bieber’s original songs seem to be a bit too commercial for the sophisticated palate, yet suffice for the 5-16 year olds whom the album is targeted towards. This is not to say that anyone 17+ will immediately disregard the record. Each song contains the common components of pop Christmas music; surfaced lyrics about love, snow, and mistletoe during the holidays. His debut single “Mistletoe”, which was released October 18th, is undeniably catchy and started the album off on the right foot.
Bieber seemed to take a new approach to Christmas songs that have been around for decades. He covers “Drummer Boy”; adding a hip-hop spin and rap verses featuring Busta Rhymes. Bieber also duets with Mariah Carey on “All I Want For Christmas is You”.
If you’re looking for a small addition to your child’s Christmas stocking, or a feel good simple pop Christmas album, definitely pick this up! Otherwise, there is without a doubt more new Christmas music options for you!!
Michael Buble - Christmas | Release Date: 10.21.11
Pop singer Michael Buble released his first solo Christmas album “Christmas” this October 21st, 2011. Buble is known for his modernized yet timeless swing jazz and tenor vocals. He incorporates his distinct sound into classic Christmas tunes, whether upbeat or ballad.
The album is made up of 15 remakes of popular Christmas songs. Buble collaborates with country pop singer Shania Twain on “White Christmas” as well as Spanish singer Thalia on “Mis Deseos/ Feliz Navidad”. He also sings with The Puppini Sisters on “Jingle Bells”. The album ends with a five second holiday greeting from Buble. Let’s be honest, who wouldn’t want a Christmas greeting from a man whose voice is up there with Morgan Freeman’s?
Buble’s smooth vocals add warmth and zest to the unforgettable Christmas music you grew up with. This record is a must buy for all those feeling nostalgic. His voice will take you back to those old Christmas movies and family dinners, transforming your modern day Christmas party into a traditional holiday soiree.
She & Him - A Very She & Him Christmas | Release Date: 10.24.11
If you’re still missing some main components to your ideal holiday playlist, have no fear, indie alternative pop duo She & Him released “A Very She & Him Christmas” album on October 24th, 2011. The duo is made up of actress, singer, and creator of Hellogiggles.com, Zooey Deschanel and guitar player and backing vocalist, M. Ward. The duo is known for their distinctive sound, which is result of Deschanel’s soft sentimental voice and instruments such as ukulele, pedal steel guitar, and mandolin.
The duo covers 11 well-known Christmas songs and adds in an original Christmas song “Christmas Wish”. The song speaks of their wish to spread happiness and peace around the world during the holidays.
This album is recommended for any indie, acoustic, or coffeehouse music lover. It’s a perfect record for curling up in front of the fire with some green tea and vegan Christmas cookies.
Hopefully one of these albums is exactly what you’re looking to get out of your Christmas music this year. Remember if not, Glee is coming out with a second holiday record, scheduled to release November 15th, 2011.
-Lauren Frost
