Tuesday, October 13, 2009

David Archuleta - Christmas From the Heart Review

I listened to David Archuleta’s Christmas album Christmas From The Heart. Bombarded with Christmas standards, which many have done before but ‘oh well,' I can say the album was not bad at all. Honestly, pretty good.

David’s talent is not to be denied. A great voice and excellent vocal choices, one can say what they will but the boy can saaaaaang. It’s great to see him at work.

1. Joy To The World
2. Angels We Have Heard On High
3. O Come All Ye Faithful
4. Silent Night
5. The First Noel
6. O Holy Night

Tracks 1-through-6 are ok but at risk of sounding like a judge on American Idol, “I didn’t hear any risks.” I longed to hear uniqueness while listening and, yes, it could be stated that he’d ‘song them as they should be sung’ but it’s David? He, out of shear talent, jazzed up “Another Day in Paradise” and I desired the like-magic.

7. Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas

For preference sake, however, the most engaging song was "Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas" with Charice Pempengco, who brought a soul[ness] to the song, which could have worked without her but there’s an appreciation for her contribution when heard. Oddly, her English is very limited but sings this American standard as good as any English speaker I‘ve heard.

8. I'll Be Home For Christmas
9. Pat-A-Pan
10. What Child Is This
11. Riu Riu Chiu <---- (comment: just an awesome rendition)
12. Ave Maria
13. Melodies Of Christmas

Tracks 7-to-13 were worlds better in production and quality than their predecessors. A complete different record it appeared to be. Oh, and the last three songs? Perfection (maybe it was the whole 'different language' thing).

The album gets a B+! Not because it wasn’t enjoyable, only because I wanted to hear him sing “This Christmas” by Donny Hathaway. Awww. Maybe next year when he sings Christmas From The Spirit.

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