Russ Taff - Another Sentimental Christmas

Published Wednesday 17th November 2010
Russ Taff - Another Sentimental Christmas
Russ Taff - Another Sentimental Christmas

STYLE: Pop
RATING 4 4 4 4
OUR PRODUCT CODE: 96139-17312
LABEL: Spring Hill CMD1195
FORMAT: CD Album
ITEMS: 1
RELEASE DATE: 2010-10-12
RRP: £9.99

Reviewed by Tony Cummings

Russ is, in my book, one of Christendom's GREAT vocalists and down the years he's recorded his share of classics. But, in truth, he's also released some stinkers. Maybe it's his sheer versatility which is the problem. Over the years Russ has sung southern gospel, R&B-tinged pop, country and rock. Now for the second time in his long career the veteran turns to Yuletide oldies. Just like its predecessor 1992's 'A Christmas Song' it was produced by his long time associate, the superb guitarist James Hollihan and, like its predecessor, it's got as many secular Christmas ditties as songs about the wondrous events in a Bethlehem stable. So here Russ runs through "Winter Wonderland", "The Christmas Song" and "Jingle Bells" alongside "Silent Night" and "Go Tell It On The Mountain". Producer Hollihan works hard trying to come up with an interesting arrangement for the jazzed-up "Jingle Bells" but, in truth, when you have Russ' raw and soulful tones emoting such lines as "Jack Frost nipping at your toes" the effect is highly surreal. All in all, an album that shouldn't be on anyone's Christmas list.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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Product Description
Dust off that shelf of classic Christmas recordings and make room for a new favourite! This release from vocalist extraordiaire Russ Taff belongs right up there with Crosby, Martin and Como.
Maybe it’s the jazz-influenced arrangements complete with stand-up bass or the lush, upbeat brass that brings to mind the triumph and splendor of the season. Or perhaps it’s Russ’ soulful, passionate interpretations on favourites like 'Silent Night,' 'Jingle Bells' and 'Winter Wonderland'; but there is something so commercial, so easy-on-the-ear and yet so familiar and nostalgic about this new release that makes it an instant staple for lovers of Christmas melodies, old and new.
'Light the candles, start the fire, put the turkey in the oven and turn up the stereo as you enjoy the unpredictable, heartfelt, textured crooning of what Billboard Magazine described as 'the single most electrifying voice in Christian music.'

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