The Majestic "O Come, All Ye Faithful"

[poormadpeter2]

If there is one number that deserves the big production (arranged Glen Spreen), is this one. Soaring choir and Larry Londin percussion included! The sound of a huge Cathedral. I love It!


http://www5.zippyshare.com/v/rghAtVYU/file.html

I have to agree. It's also an attempt at trying something different, which is not a bad thing either.

DJC wrote:
The best of the remaining Side 1 batch is perhaps "It Won't Seem Like Christmas (Without You)." And I actually love the silliness given to "Winter Wonderland," right down to the blues vamp ending, an "Elvis speciality" as far back as his 1955 performances of "I Got A Woman." The group ran down ten takes, so effort was involved in making this one a reality.

i think this is an example of knowing too much info and transplanting it on to the listening experience. Winter Wonderland is a crass run-through of the song which sounds nearly as uninspired as The First Noel and Silver Bells. Indeed, after take 7, Elvis says "I'm getting tired of this damned song." Ten takes doesn't make it any better or worse than a song that takes one - nor does it imply more commitment. It could just easily demonstrate a mere lack of concentration.

Meanwhile, if two takes captured what was required of O Come all Ye Faithful, why do more?

Extra takes don't necessarily improve anything - or prove anything even. If anything, the opposite may be true - it's perfectly valid to have the theory that the more takes a song required, the more chance that the song was struggling to come together and should have been ditched and replaced with something else. There are exceptions to both theories regarding how many takes were recorded. No-one is going to criticise the His Hand in Mine album just because 8 of the tracks were recorded in 5 or less takes. Meanwhile, no-one is going to criticise Hound Dog just because it took over 30.

Recording music isn't an exact science. It takes as long as it takes, simple as that. But the number of takes is not indicative of quality or commitment.

[drjohncarpenter]

If there is one number that deserves the big production (arranged Glen Spreen), is this one. Soaring choir and Larry Londin percussion included! The sound of a huge Cathedral. I love It!


http://www5.zippyshare.com/v/rghAtVYU/file.html

I have to agree. It's also an attempt at trying something different, which is not a bad thing either.

If the result is an overblown mess, it means "trying something different" might not have been the best decision. And it goes without question that, had Side 2 mirrored the languorous nature of Side 1, the accolades given the LP through the years would be muted.

As I've noted elsewhere, It might be argued that the fact "Merry Christmas Baby" was slotted on the 1971 LP meant someone knew it would be an anomaly amongst mostly genteel holiday favorites and low-key ballads. And it would have an impact.

Nothing else sounds like it, and once you know it's coming on Side 2 it actually heightens the excitement, waiting for those first down-and-dirty guitar notes. Borrowing a phrase from music critic Charles Perry, it's akin to "finding a hamburger in a medicine cabinet."

Meanwhile, if two takes captured what was required of O Come all Ye Faithful, why do more?

I think this is an example of knowing too much info and transplanting it on to the listening experience.

[Juan Luis]

Some may have the opinion of "an overblown mess". But this centuries old number, was well served. I love it!

[egilj]

Along with Bjørling's "O helga natt", "O Come, All Ye Faithful" by Elvis is my favorite christmas performance.

[poormadpeter2]

If there is one number that deserves the big production (arranged Glen Spreen), is this one. Soaring choir and Larry Londin percussion included! The sound of a huge Cathedral. I love It!


http://www5.zippyshare.com/v/rghAtVYU/file.html

I have to agree. It's also an attempt at trying something different, which is not a bad thing either.

If the result is an overblown mess, it means "trying something different" might not have been the best decision. And it goes without question that, had Side 2 mirrored the languorous nature of Side 1, the accolades given the LP through the years would be muted.

As I've noted elsewhere, It might be argued that the fact "Merry Christmas Baby" was slotted on the 1971 LP meant someone knew it would be an anomaly amongst mostly genteel holiday favorites and low-key ballads. And it would have an impact.

Nothing else sounds like it, and once you know it's coming on Side 2 it actually heightens the excitement, waiting for those first down-and-dirty guitar notes. Borrowing a phrase from music critic Charles Perry, it's akin to "finding a hamburger in a medicine cabinet."

Meanwhile, if two takes captured what was required of O Come all Ye Faithful, why do more?

I think this is an example of knowing too much info and transplanting it on to the listening experience.

It's your own view that it is an overblown mess. That's fine. And don't try to suggest that most people are in agreement with you on this one.

JuanLuis, sjkj, Dan-T, Johnny2523, Vegas 74, Elvisjock, Tony C, Greystoke, LSP-4445, Steve Morse, Christopher Brown, jerryNodak, rlj4ep, skatterbrane, goldbelt, egilk, PMP2
vs
Stevelecher, Matthew, DJC

You're on the losing side of this vote, old bean.

[Juan Luis]

Whilst I wouldn't place Elvis's version of O Come, All Ye Faithful among the very best recordings of this carol (or Adeste Fideles, the Latin carol on which it's based) this is a fine piece of music that I'm quite fond of. Elvis wasn't in great voice during these sessions, and Elvis Sings the Wonderful World of Christmas leaves a lot to be desired, but this is possibly the most interesting recording on the album. It's also one of this album's two or three best tracks, along with Merry Christmas Baby and I'll be Home on Christmas Day.

What's interesting about this recording is the successful blend of Lutheran qualities with contemporary sounds. The arrangement works a treat and the song is nicely produced, managing to integrate brass and strings with a modern rhythm section and a striking chromatic choral section. All of which compliments and involves Elvis quite impeccably. But with such invention and creativity at work, and Elvis contained enough to appreciate what was possible here, the end result is very nice indeed, with magical touches throughout.

Great to revisit you post. Thank you once again!

[stevelecher]

It matters little to me if you all enjoy it. I'm glad for you. I don't care for OCAYF and the spliced version with the high note (sic) does not help. Doc and I agree on a number of topics and we've had disagreements but his take on the whole 1971 album mirrors mine.

For me, the album starts with It Won't Seem Like Christmas, hits its stride with IIGHOCD, HLACT, and ends powerfully with MCB. Though the vocal is a bit dodgy, I sort of like On A Snowy Christmas Night too.

Merry Christmas everyone!

[drjohncarpenter]

Meanwhile, if two takes captured what was required of O Come all Ye Faithful, why do more?

I think this is an example of knowing too much info and transplanting it on to the listening experience.

It's your own view that it is an overblown mess. That's fine. And don't try to suggest that most people are in agreement with you on this one.

JuanLuis, sjkj, Dan-T, Johnny2523, Vegas 74, Elvisjock, Tony C, Greystoke, LSP-4445, Steve Morse, Christopher Brown, jerryNodak, rlj4ep, skatterbrane, goldbelt, egilk, PMP2
vs
Stevelecher, Matthew, DJC

You're on the losing side of this vote, old bean.

Actually, that's not my view, but your habit of misreading someone else's post is one you will never break. It does diminish your credibility as someone capable of carrying on a coherent argument, though.

You are welcome to adore Elvis' 1971 recording of "O Come, All Ye Faithful," but I don't need to suggest that only hardcore fans share your love. It's a fact. In every assessment I've read of Elvis' finest holiday recordings, the tracks most often cited include:

Blue Christmas
Santa Bring My Baby Back
Santa Claus Is Back In Town
Holly Leaves and Christmas Trees
Merry Christmas Baby

Almost without question, these are the top five of all the holiday recordings Elvis made in his career.

And I don't need to tally up a handful of forum members who happen to agree with me, and use it to justify my opinion while putting down another opinion.

[Juan Luis]

Meanwhile, if two takes captured what was required of O Come all Ye Faithful, why do more?

I think this is an example of knowing too much info and transplanting it on to the listening experience.

It's your own view that it is an overblown mess. That's fine. And don't try to suggest that most people are in agreement with you on this one.

JuanLuis, sjkj, Dan-T, Johnny2523, Vegas 74, Elvisjock, Tony C, Greystoke, LSP-4445, Steve Morse, Christopher Brown, jerryNodak, rlj4ep, skatterbrane, goldbelt, egilk, PMP2
vs
Stevelecher, Matthew, DJC

You're on the losing side of this vote, old bean.

Actually, that's not my view, but your habit of misreading someone else's post is one you will never break. It does diminish your credibility as someone capable of carrying on a coherent argument, though.

You are welcome to adore Elvis' 1971 recording of "O Come, All Ye Faithful," but I don't need to suggest that only hardcore fans share your love. It's a fact. In every assessment I've read of Elvis' finest holiday recordings, the tracks most often cited include:

Blue Christmas
Santa Bring My Baby Back
Santa Claus Is Back In Town
Holly Leaves and Christmas Trees
Merry Christmas Baby

Almost without question, these are the top five of all the holiday recordings Elvis made in his career.

And I don't need to tally up a handful of forum members who happen to agree with me, and use it to justify my opinion while putting down another opinion.

No one is adoring anything. And no one has stated that it is the best of the lot. But "overblown mess" is just as exaggerating as someone adoring the song.

[bajo]

I'll go for the extended version on MOC when listening to this song! I actually like it!

[sweetangeline]

It's a fact. In every assessment I've read of Elvis' finest holiday recordings, the tracks most often cited include:

Blue Christmas
Santa Bring My Baby Back
Santa Claus Is Back In Town
Holly Leaves and Christmas Trees
Merry Christmas Baby

Almost without question, these are the top five of all the holiday recordings Elvis made in his career.

this is and will always be my favorite Elvis holiday recording!!

[Steve Morse]

"Peace on Earth, and Goodwill to All".

[jetblack]

I never bothered to check out the Elvis Christmas Duets CD, and as much as I like Olivia, I'm not keen at all on that 'duet'.

Sadly, neither am I.

Andy

[fn2drive]

Meanwhile, if two takes captured what was required of O Come all Ye Faithful, why do more?

I think this is an example of knowing too much info and transplanting it on to the listening experience.

It's your own view that it is an overblown mess. That's fine. And don't try to suggest that most people are in agreement with you on this one.

JuanLuis, sjkj, Dan-T, Johnny2523, Vegas 74, Elvisjock, Tony C, Greystoke, LSP-4445, Steve Morse, Christopher Brown, jerryNodak, rlj4ep, skatterbrane, goldbelt, egilk, PMP2
vs
Stevelecher, Matthew, DJC

You're on the losing side of this vote, old bean.

Actually, that's not my view, but your habit of misreading someone else's post is one you will never break. It does diminish your credibility as someone capable of carrying on a coherent argument, though.

You are welcome to adore Elvis' 1971 recording of "O Come, All Ye Faithful," but I don't need to suggest that only hardcore fans share your love. It's a fact. In every assessment I've read of Elvis' finest holiday recordings, the tracks most often cited include:

Blue Christmas
Santa Bring My Baby Back
Santa Claus Is Back In Town
Holly Leaves and Christmas Trees
Merry Christmas Baby

Almost without question, these are the top five of all the holiday recordings Elvis made in his career.

And I don't need to tally up a handful of forum members who happen to agree with me, and use it to justify my opinion while putting down another opinion.

Those would be the 5 and i would add White Christmas because of how he manages to cover the entire Drifters single handedly-good God, the talent in the man. And what an ear. The subject of this topic is a boring run through solely to get another traditional song in the can. The overdubs are as bad as any ever done. And of course another fail by Felton Jarvis as was most of this and his final sacred album. Artists need be inspired-this was getting his record company and Parker off his back. First Noel, Winter Wonderland, Silver Bells-pass me the little bag in the pocket in front of you on a plane.

Not a bad track in the legendary Xmas recordings but by 1971 it was like picking through the trash to find something that was edible. This track while not garbage has little value to me nor obviously to the artist himself. As a final note let's remember RCA consider this entire outing a giant fail-which it was though arguably the 2 tracks cited above perhaps made the entire endeavor worthwhile.

[jetblack]

Not a bad track in the legendary Xmas recordings but by 1971 it was like picking through the trash to find something that was edible. This track while not garbage has little value to me nor obviously to the artist himself. As a final note let's remember RCA consider this entire outing a giant fail-which it was though arguably the 2 tracks cited above perhaps made the entire endeavor worthwhile.

That is an error.

The Wonderful World Of Christmas' album was a top seller reaching Number 2 in 1971 on the Billboard Holiday Albums Chart and topping it in 1972 and 1973. It would have charted high on the Billboard 200 but from 1963 to 1973 Holiday albums were not allowed to chart.

It went on to sell 3 million copies in the USA.

Andy

[Juan Luis]

Not a bad track in the legendary Xmas recordings but by 1971 it was like picking through the trash to find something that was edible. This track while not garbage has little value to me nor obviously to the artist himself. As a final note let's remember RCA consider this entire outing a giant fail-which it was though arguably the 2 tracks cited above perhaps made the entire endeavor worthwhile.

That is an error.

The Wonderful World Of Christmas' album was a top seller reaching Number 2 in 1971 on the Billboard Holiday Albums Chart and topping it in 1972 and 1973. It would have charted high on the Billboard 200 but from 1963 to 1973 Holiday albums were not allowed to chart.

It went on to sell 3 million copies in the USA.

Andy

I cannot think of one artist that would not want to fail like that.

[stevelecher]

It went on to sell 3 million copies in the USA.

Andy

Much of that after his death, IIRC.

[Juan Luis]

It went on to sell 3 million copies in the USA.

Andy

Much of that after his death, IIRC.

Like every single record of the catalog. And then some.

[fn2drive]

Not a bad track in the legendary Xmas recordings but by 1971 it was like picking through the trash to find something that was edible. This track while not garbage has little value to me nor obviously to the artist himself. As a final note let's remember RCA consider this entire outing a giant fail-which it was though arguably the 2 tracks cited above perhaps made the entire endeavor worthwhile.

That is an error.

The Wonderful World Of Christmas' album was a top seller reaching Number 2 in 1971 on the Billboard Holiday Albums Chart and topping it in 1972 and 1973. It would have charted high on the Billboard 200 but from 1963 to 1973 Holiday albums were not allowed to chart.

It went on to sell 3 million copies in the USA.

No it was consider a failure by RCA when originally released-significantly underperformed expectations esp after waiting a decade and 1/2 for another one. Nor did the single get much airplay.
Andy

[poormadpeter2]

Not a bad track in the legendary Xmas recordings but by 1971 it was like picking through the trash to find something that was edible. This track while not garbage has little value to me nor obviously to the artist himself. As a final note let's remember RCA consider this entire outing a giant fail-which it was though arguably the 2 tracks cited above perhaps made the entire endeavor worthwhile.

That is an error.

The Wonderful World Of Christmas' album was a top seller reaching Number 2 in 1971 on the Billboard Holiday Albums Chart and topping it in 1972 and 1973. It would have charted high on the Billboard 200 but from 1963 to 1973 Holiday albums were not allowed to chart.

It went on to sell 3 million copies in the USA.

No it was consider a failure by RCA when originally released-significantly underperformed expectations esp after waiting a decade and 1/2 for another one. Nor did the single get much airplay.
Andy

You DO realise you're meant to add in your own comments when you quote someone, right?

[fn2drive]

It went on to sell 3 million copies in the USA.

Andy

Much of that after his death, IIRC.

Rewriting history is strong around here. Is there any track from this LP that is in any Christmas playlist other than Sirius 13-ive never heard a single track played on air after a few plays of MCB in 71. Im sure i'll learn that some track on this LP was the My Boy or AOMM monster hit on a tiny island in the South Pacific. Live and learn i guess.

[Juan Luis]

The album topped the holiday chart from the get go.

"The album was released in October 1971, followed by the single from the album "Merry Christmas Baby" / "O Come All Ye Faithful" released in November 1971. This album was a top seller and topped the Billboard Holiday Albums Chart, and would have charted high on the Billboard 200 but from 1963 to 73 Holiday albums were not allowed to chart." Wikipedia.

It can be safely said it was not a failure. Over the years has become "a perennial favorite."

[poormadpeter2]

It went on to sell 3 million copies in the USA.

Andy

Much of that after his death, IIRC.

Rewriting history is strong around here. Is there any track from this LP that is in any Christmas playlist other than Sirius 13-ive never heard a single track played on air after a few plays of MCB in 71. Im sure i'll learn that some track on this LP was the My Boy or AOMM monster hit on a tiny island in the South Pacific. Live and learn i guess.

So now your means of judging an LP is by how many tracks from it end up on a playlist? How many songs from Back in Memphis are on a playlist? Or from Elvis is Back?

Really and truly, I think the LP in question is one of the most depressing, miserable, bland Christmas albums I've ever heard BUT if your only way of being able to measure its quality is to see how many tracks, 45 years on, still make radio playlists then I find that equally depressing, miserable and bland.

[Tony Trout]

The version on the 1982 compilation, MCFE, is my all-time favorite and I even attempted to replicate that version during a Christmas program one year at church long ago (by replicate, I mean that I wanted the pianist to play that exact piano intro - but....that didn't happen).

That album is also where I first heard the "bluesy" version of "I'll Be Home On Christmas Day" and I immediately loved it - and still do! As a matter of fact, I've listened to the latter song a bunch of times in the past few days. James Burton's quite simple steel guitar-like intro (which took me years to learn) is beautiful. And whoever said that Jim Murray's voice here was spot on (or words to that effect) is absolutely right.

I'm going a bit off-topic but - I'll never understand why RCA chose to release the softer "acoustic" version of this song?? I like the bluesy version of IBHOCD a whole lot better.

[Steve Morse]

The version on the 1982 compilation, MCFE, is my all-time favorite and I even attempted to replicate that version during a Christmas program one year at church long ago (by replicate, I mean that I wanted the pianist to play that exact piano intro - but....that didn't happen).

That album is also where I first heard the "bluesy" version of "I'll Be Home On Christmas Day" and I immediately loved it - and still do! As a matter of fact, I've listened to the latter song a bunch of times in the past few days. James Burton's quite simple steel guitar-like intro (which took me years to learn) is beautiful. And whoever said that Jim Murray's voice here was spot on (or words to that effect) is absolutely right.

I'm going a bit off-topic but - I'll never understand why RCA chose to release the softer "acoustic" version of this song?? I like the bluesy version of IBHOCD a whole lot better.

I much prefer the original version. Far more subtle and, for me, much more bluesy. The beefed-up version does nothing for me . . . but that's just a matter of taste, I guess.