Chris Isaak

Everybody Knows It's Christmas

(Sun Records)

Chris wisely opts against severe innovation, instead rendering classics that have delighted generations as traditionally portrayed; by so doing, he ensures his work warm welcome. In the singer's milky modulations, one occasionally espies Der Bingle's shadow. Several originals nestle between long-adored chestnuts. And while two tend toward bleakness (depression sometimes being a sad seasonal reality), they generally honor the festive ambiance. (Meriting note is that much credit for the material's ascension is owed to the elite musicians contracted for the gladsome celebration.) Appropriately, Chris ends on a spiritual note, conveying his awareness of the moment's true nature.

Recommended: "Winter Wonderland," "Jingle Bell Rock," "Holiday Blues," "Run Run Rudolph," "I Believe In Santa Claus," "Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree," "Everybody Knows It's Christmas," "Christmas Comes But Once a Year," "Help Me Baby Jesus," "Dogs Love Christmas Too," "Wrapping Presents For Myself," "Almost Christmas," "O Holy Night"

Video: "Dogs Love Christmas Too" (live in RCA studio)

Site

Sun Records

Bandcamp

Amazon