Search - Various Artists :: Signature Series: Christmas Spectacular

A Christmas Spectacular is the "joy and peace" equivalent of the recent war euphemism "shock and awe." Steeped in standards that are as majestic sounding as they are rich in tradition and reverence, the 14-track disc sets its own standard for rousing orchestral and choral performances of the best-loved Christmas music. The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and Chorus pieces such as "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing," "Good Christian Men, Rejoice," and "Adeste Fideles" seem to strike the heart and ears simultaneously. There's a noble Romantic quality to the National Philharmonic Orchestra's "I Wonder As I Wander" with its harp glissandos and accented flutes while more than a touch of indulgent playfulness in the "The Holly and the Ivy." But the record's overall effect is like a sweeping cinematic soundtrack for a season that's as timeless as the music written and arranged to celebrate it. --Martin Keller