Bob Dylan - Christmas in the Heart
It strikes me that the way one hears this album is very much dependent on the assumptions one brings to the holiday table. Some reviewers give Bob a pass for his charitable inclinations. And certainly donating the proceeds to charity is a noble gesture. Other reviewers have given him a pass because, hey, it’s a Christmas album. ‘Tis the season to be jolly. Still others have reveled in the contrast between the polished schlock (backing choir consisting of the heavenly host) and the gruff bark of Dylan’s “singing.”... read more
Found in: Blogs, Andy Whitman on MusicDavid Bazan Slates Sixth Christmas 7-Inch for Nov. Release
Whether in Pedro the Lion or not, David Bazan has made a name for himself by telling original stories through song. He takes a break for the holidays, though he doesn't relax like most. Namely, he interprets yuletide tunes and releases them on vinyl.... read more
Found in: Music, NewsBob Dylan's Christmas In The Heart Set for Oct. 13 Release
Columbia Records announced today that Bob Dylan's Christmas compilation, Christmas In The Heart, will hit stores before Halloween even rolls around. The folk deity's 47th album is set for an Oct. 13 release, and will include the usual holiday ditties like "Here Comes Santa Claus," Winter Wonderland," Little Drummer Boy" and "Must Be Santa."... read more
Found in: Music, NewsBob Dylan Christmas Album on the Way
As we've just learned from Bully! Pulpit, the inimitable (not to mention greatest living) folk grandmaster Bob Dylan has been steadily compiling a collection of modern songs and Christmas carols for his first-ever Christmas album. Four songs have reportedly been recorded at Jackson Browne's Groove Master Studios in Santa Moncia, Calif., including "Must Be Santa," "Here Comes Santa Claus," "O Little Town Of Bethlehem" and "I'll Be Home For Christmas."... read more
Found in: Music, NewsTony Bennett featuring the Count Basie Big Band: A Swingin' Christmas
Deft jazz, pure nostalgia fuel legend's latest holiday outingIt’s no coincidence that the modern-day American interpretation of Christmas derives much of its imagery and aesthetic from the 1950s. From Haddon Sundblom's iconic Coca-Cola portraits of Santa Claus to the mass production of the candy cane, our current associations with the holiday season date back to a culture defined by the explosion of suburbia and the post-WWII nuclear family. And there's no greater evidence of this connection than Tony Bennett's latest holiday album, A Swingin’ Christmas.... read more
Found in: Music, Reviews, Local:NYCComic duo Paul and Storm celebrate 25 days of Randy Newman
[Pictured: Paul and Storm with comedian Jonathan Coulton]Randy Newman had a pretty great 2008. His most recent album, Harps and Angels, was warmly received by critics and audiences alike. Renowned for his work on a number of films, including his Oscar-winning tune for Pixar's Monsters, Inc., Newman's trademark voice and sound is instantly recognizable. So recognizable, in fact, it's inspired Washington D.C. comedians Paul and Storm to create a bizarre "advent calendar" inspired by the bespectacled piano man himself, entitled 25 Days of Newman. Imitation is the highest form of flattery, right? Right.... read more
Found in: Music, NewsJohnny Cash Christmas DVD box set out now
Available now, Shout! Factory has released a 4-DVD set of The Johnny Cash Christmas Specials 1976-1979. While '76 and '77 were released last year, the '78 and '79 specials are new and are available separately or as part of the box set. Included on the new set are Kris Kristofferson, Rita Coolidge, Steve Martin and Andy Kaufman, amongst others.... read more
Found in: Concerts, News
Where Have All The Weird Girls Gone?…
