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James Taylor
At Christmas
(Columbia)
First Appeared in The Music Box, December 2006, Volume 13, #12
Written by Nancy Metzger
It seems amazing that midway through his fifth decade as a
musician, James Taylor has finally issued a Christmas album. While literally
thousands of holiday records already exist, perhaps few artists are as well
suited as Taylor to providing the warm, cheerful, cozy-by-the-fire glow that
every yuletide celebration needs. Partnering with renowned jazz pianist/composer
Dave Grusin on 10 of the 12 tracks, Taylor serves up a country-jazz combo to
many favorite tunes of the season. At Christmas begins with fabulous new
takes on Winter Wonderland, the traditional Go Tell It on the Mountain,
and Santa Claus is Coming to Town. Then it steps oddly into a version of
Jingle Bells that feels like a holiday incarnation of Steamroller,
invoking an image more of a raucous night of boozing than an innocent sleigh
ride. Natalie Cole’s guest vocals on Baby, It’s Cold Outside flawlessly
complement the soft crooning by Taylor, and even their playful flirting feels
fun not forced. The only true disappointment on the endeavor is the cover of
Joni Mitchell’s River. Given the similarity in vocal styles between
Taylor and Mitchell, it ought to be a great match. However, Taylor’s version not
only misses the pinnacle of Mitchell’s recording, but it also doesn’t even come
close to the renditions offered by the Indigo Girls and Travis. Still, for those
who are seeking some new favorite variations on classic Yuletide fare or just a
way to stay calm and serene during the hectic holiday season, At Christmas is the perfect companion.  ½
Of Further Interest...
Harry Connick, Jr. - What a Night! A Christmas Album
Yo-Yo Ma & Friends - Songs of Joy & Peace
Various Artists - Singers and Songwriters Christmas Songs
At Christmas is available from
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Ratings
1 Star: Pitiful
2 Stars: Listenable
3 Stars: Respectable
4 Stars: Excellent
5 Stars: Can't Live Without It!!
Copyright © 2006 The Music Box
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