'This Christmas' Is As Magical As Patti Is Wonderful
scott | Dallas, Texas | 12/20/2002
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I wanted to give this album 10 stars, but they wouldn't let me. The first time I listened to 'This Christmas,' I was away at college (feeling lonely that I could not be with my family for the holidays) and it completely brightened my spirit (I truly mean that). Patti LaBelle is one of a handful of musical artists (because she is so genuine and warm, both on and off stage) that can literally send surges of adrenaline throughout your body when you watch her perform. There is something so unusual and cataclysmic about her voice and the way she delivers a song. Patti doesn't just sing a song, like a competitive race car driver, she steers it, she controls it, she makes you feel trimumphant afterwards, like she is by your side every step of the way to the finish line. 'This Christmas' like all of Ms. LaBelle's albums is packed with musical selections that speak to the heart. The title cut, This Christmas, is by far the best rendition of the song that has ever been recorded, what with the magnificant orchestration and wonderful use of deep bass drums in the background (I love that!), This Christmas, very nicely demonstrates Ms. LaBelle's vocal power and unmatched lyrical phrasing (her unique way of delivering individual words or groups of words in any given song and is what sets her squarely apart from other vocalist and where she has no rivals.) Something else I love about this christmas album is it's wide-range of musical styles. From love songs like 'Twas Love,' to country-laden selections like 'Country Christmas, to the contemporary and my FAVORITE selection on the album 'If Everyday Could Be Like Christmas,' The album 'This Christmas' has something for every listener, black or white, young and old. -Everytime I listen to 'If Everyday Could Be Like Christmas' I just want to get up and start singing. I love the message of the song, the contagious beat and those raucous, over the top Patti vocals, and if you turn up the song loud enough, her vocals could clear out your sinuses, forget about the need for cold medicine! All in all, 'This Christmas' is a 10-star compilation of wonderful holiday songs performed in that familiar and fabulous style that is pure Patti LaBelle. Go out and buy a copy, invite a few friends over and have a very Merry Christmas!"
The Best of the Season
Cheryl L. Thompson | Alpharetta, GA United States | 12/12/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This is my favorite holiday CD! It holds a very special place in my heart. It has been a family tradition to play this particular CD as my husband and I decorated our Christmas tree. Unfortunately my husband passed away a year ago. Playing the CD reminds me of the wonderful Christmases we spent together. The song Angel Man feels like it was written especially for me.
I recommend this CD highly for those who love the beautiful music of Patti LaBelle. It doesn't get any better than this."