Billy's "Classic Christmas"
by Richard L.
For the last few years I have dreaded the arrival of the holiday season due
to its over commercialization. However, this year I am already in the
Christmas mood as a result of the talent of a very special 12 year old boy.
As a follow up to his outstanding debut album, "One Voice", Billy Gilman has
released an album simply named "Classic Christmas", and that name says it
all. His strong, clear voice brings new life to the classics like Silent
Night, Away In a Manger, Angels We Have Heard On High, and my personal
favorite, Oh Holy Night. Billy brings youthful enthusiasm to such upbeat
numbers like Winter Wonderland, Jingle Bell Rock, Rockin' Around The
Christmas Tree, and White Christmas. Another bright moment is a duet with
English teenage star Charlotte Church performing Sleigh Ride. However, the
two highlights are a pair of new songs written just for Billy. Both songs
very easily could join the others as Christmas standards. Warm & Fuzzy is an
upbeat, happy song that makes you feel just like its title. Billy even gets
to try out some skat singing on this track. However, I've saved my final
comments for my favorite selection on "Classic Christmas." There's A New Kid
In Town is a wonderful new Christmas song that I will predict will be a
staple of children's choirs for years to come. (I've already given a tape to
my own church's children's choir.) Just buy this album, listen to this song,
and I am sure you will agree. Billy Gilman's "Classic Christmas" will make
you feel warm and fuzzy all over, and that is exactly what a good Christmas
album should do. Thank you, Billy, for restoring my enthusiasm for the
holidays!
© 2000 Richard L., All Rights Reserved (10/19/00)
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