Holiday albums have become an expected commodity for artists. Isn't it about time for Ozzy Osbourne, Marilyn Manson or Alice Cooper to release a very special version of "What Child Is This" or "Joy to the World?" Although Christmas collections turn out to be extremely formulaic, each set will bring in the holiday cheer with personalized versions of traditional carols and a handful of newly penned material.
On A Christmas Cornucopia, Annie Lennox takes us on a guided tour through her winter wonderland. Just imagine entering Narnia and being greeted by Lennox, who will break into song, while welcoming you to her world.
She leads a procession during "God Rest Ye Merry Gentleman," accompanied by its marching drums. Then the icon points out the wonders of this snow-covered landscape to the tunes of "Lullay Lullay ( The Coventry Carol ) " and "The Holly and the Ivy." "Il Est Ne le Divin Enfant" is a peculiar choice, but it fits here. The African Children's Choir appears throughout A Christmas Cornucopia, but has a prominent role on "As Joseph Was a Walking ( The Cherry Tree Carol ) ." ( See the Annie Lennox interview elsewhere in this issue. )
The inspiring new song "Universal Child" is yet another chapter in Lennox's loving odes to youngsters, as previously heard on "Precious" and "Beautiful Child." Proceeds from "Universal Child" will benefit The Annie Lennox Foundation, which raises funds and awareness for the HIV/AIDS crisis throughout Africa.
Born on Christmas Day, it is fitting that Lennox releases a unique yet superb twist to the holiday with A Christmas Cornucopia.
On his latest, Hello Tomorrow, Dave Koz reminds listeners that contemporary jazz does not have to be limited to elevators or the bedroom. Be assured that there are tender moments like "Start All over Again" and "Whisper in Your Ear." Hello Tomorrow opens with a funky groove on "Pop the Top Down" and "When Will I Know for Sure." Percussionist Sheila E. guests on "Getaway," providing a mid-tempo rhythm. The instrumental "Think Big" has a tidal wave of a chorus and Cajun-gone-ragtime feel. But Burt Bacharach's "This Guy's in Love with You" is the album's highlight. Koz even assumes vocal duties here. Club mixes for "This Guy" are out now.
On Saturday, Dec. 4, the openly gay Koz will be joined by Jonathan Butler, Brian Culbertson and Candy Dulfer for Dave Koz and Friends: A Smooth Jazz Christmas at The Chicago Theatre, 175 N. State.
The beloved duo The Indigo Girls wishes fans seasonal greetings—regardless what holiday they might celebrate—on Holly Happy Days. "I Feel the Christmas Spirit," "It Really Is ( A Wonderful Life ) " and "Your Holiday Song" will fight off the frost with upbeat guitar strumming. Similarly, "The Wonder Song" keeps the festive spirit alive. Takes on "In the Bleak Midwinter," "I'll Be Home for Christmas" and "Angels We Have Heard on High" show off the duo's trademark flawless harmonies.
As a part of XRT's Holiday Concert for the Kids, The Indigo Girls will be at House of Blues, 329 N. Dearborn, on Tuesday, Dec. 7, with Shawn Mullins and out country singer Chely Wright. Attendees are asked to bring warm clothing to donate for the Snug Hug Kid's Winter Clothing Drive.
Every year, Broadway's Carols for Cure issues another compilation benefitting Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS. This year's delightful two-disc set features the cast of multiple shows, including Mama Mia, La Cage Aux Folles, Million Dollar Quartet and Wicked. Jackie Hoffman joins members of The Addams Family for "It's Chanukah." Veteran Bernadette Peters sings alongside the cast of A Little Night Music on "Jul, Jul Stradlande Jul ( Wonderful Peace ) ."
With a joyous blend of humor, heartfelt moments and seasonal standards, the 12th installment of Broadway's Carols for a Cure certainly will add a jolly vibe to any holiday playlist or a welcomed gift to your favorite showtune loving friend or to a host of a Christmas party. The 23-track set, as well as previous volumes, can be ordered at www.broadwaycares.org .
Ever wonder what the most wonderful time of year is like on "Planet Claire" or at "The Love Shack?" B-52's Fred Schneider returns with his other band The Superions on Destination… Christmas! Chocked full with camp and a New Wave vibe, Schneider's distinct delivery adds flare to the hilarious "Fruitcake." "The Deadbeat Club" relives A Charlie Brown Christmas with "Crummy Christmas Tree." But be assured, it's a gay old time with "Santa's Disco." Destination… Christmas! by The Superions is out now.
If that is not enough camp for you, John Waters is bringing his one-man show, A John Waters Christmas, to the Harris Theater, 205 E. Randolph, on Tuesday, Dec. 14. Just don't expect "visions of sugar plums" from his monologue. In 2004 the director behind classics like Hairspray and Pink Flamingos released the compilation of holiday themed musical oddities A John Waters Christmas.
Feeling overwhelmed already with the yuletide season? The Flesh Hungry Dog Show will add a much-needed bite with its concert Friday, Dec. 10, at Jackhammer, 6406 N. Clark. The line-up consists of Chicago's female group Wanton Looks, The Spooky Qs and The Sleeptalkers featuring Andrew Langer, formerly of The Redwalls. For more details, visit www.fleshungrydog.com .
