Compassionate music
FAT | Philadelphia, PA | 12/19/2007
(4 out of 5 stars)
"Only after a band establishes its "cool" with a stack of hot sellers does it dare to make a Christmas cd. "Wow, famous Cool Band USA has made a Christmas cd. Let's buy it." So what does it say when a band debuts with one, like Ellen B.? After listening to their new release, "Merry Christmas," I think it says that this band really believes--as in believes that the birth of Jesus meant the salvation of the world; as in believes in God, church and family; as in believes that Christmas is about being a friend to the poor. In short, this cd is certifiably authentic; it's as genuine as music gets. This band is not out to make a name so much as lift up the Name. Produced in Ellen B.'s living room (if it feels comfortably homemade, that's cuz it is), the songs display contrasting voices that magically go together. B.'s built-in muffler of a voice sounds like a cross between a young Bruce Cockburn and Bob Dylan with a cold (that's a good thing!), while Ellen's elegant, smooth, Amy Grant-like vocals make you stare at the speakers. A mixture of original and traditional selections, the cd is musically eclectic with obvious indie influences throughout. The opening "Merry Christmas" is my favorite song of the bunch, although their cover of "O Holy Night" comes in as a close second. The overall effect of playing it in the background amidst my frazzled schedule was that I slowed down, sat down, thought about what was important, and marveled at the miracle of Christmas (especially while listening to Ellen B.'s original "Song of the Innocents"). It felt good too that I contributed to a worthy cause--supporting an organization working with the poor in Guatemala--just by purchasing the cd. The reason that I only gave Ellen B.'s freshman effort four stars instead of five is to spur them on make more real music. God knows that our plastic, hollow, commercialized world needs more of that. So don't stop here, Ellen B.!"
Ellen B - an eclectic blend of holiday cheer
Jeremy Milford | Tiburon, CA | 12/13/2007
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Ellen B (which stands for L and B, Leanne and Bruce) have concocted an original and melodious CD of holiday cheer. From the reflective tones of "Crown of Hay" to the haunting sounds of "Little Drummer Boy", Ellen B show off some of their indie and guerilla style CD production. Created entirely in their home studio, the bring in the sounds of organs, 12 string guitars, mandolins and many more interesting sounds. Of course you wouldn't be able to tell that this CD was recorded in a home studio, but knowing that makes it all the more pleasing to the ear.
The other wonderful thing about this CD is that it goes to support an organization called Mayan Partners. Most of what you spend on this CD will go directly to them."
Track Listings (12) - Disc #1