Sounds of the Season

I'm not really one for ratings or making recommendations but thought I would share some of my favorite sounds of the season. As you can probably imagine, my musical taste is all over the place--So here are a few tidbits that I am willing to share:

 First, my new favorite-an internet sensation in the late 90's - A group from Indiana U - Straight No Chaser does a great version of the 12 days of Christmas. 
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Second, Handel's Young Messiah- released in 1991: This is one of several 're-workings' of Handel's immortal 'Messiah'. It is likely not for "purists"-but if you have an open mind and enjoy the beauty of music in all  forms it is an enjoyable album even if many of the tracks sound like they're stuck in the 80s.

Finally- what I think is a new classic: Barenaked for the Holidays from the Barenaked Ladies. This is one of the few holiday albums that is pretty evenly divided between Christmas and Hanukkah songs. This isn't just nicely PC, but gives the album both musical and topical variety, making it a little more interesting and distinctive than the average holiday record. With that patented blend of jokiness and sentiment that's been the group's stock-in-trade, it has become a standard in our house.

 That's it as we close 2009. It has been a year filled with surprises, good and bad. Here's hoping that the joy of the season finds you and yours safe and loved. Hug those you hold dear. Dance. Sing. Laugh. Enjoy.

 Smiles and Grins,


The Queen