Fans of my Amazon reviews (both of them) know that I often recommend checking out an unfamiliar singer's Christmas album first. They're often cheaper, which is always a plus when delving into the unknown: and if you like what the singer does with standard holiday fare (i.e. stuff that's been just about beaten to death before the vocalist in question ever had a crack at it), it only stands to reason that performer's other albums will appeal to you as well.

Linda Eder is no exception. I had heard the name, and kind of associated her with contemporary Broadway glitz. (Not necessarily a bad thing, mind you). Well, why not give the holiday album a try? A glance at the song list suggested that this was going to be make or break. Most of the chestnuts on this album had been pretty well roasted by other artists decades before. But then that's what's Christmas albums are all about, taking something old and making it kinda new.

And she does that on a number of tracks. Gospel choruses on "O Holy Night" and "Do You Hear What I Hear." Jazzed up renditions (a la Streisand) of what was always lighter fare anyway, like "Here Comes Santa Claus/Santa Claus Is Comin' To Town." more meditative ballads. Lots of variety. And it's all done on a grandiose scale (bigger being better for her and collaborator hubby Frank Wildhorn, I guess). Even the "Ave Maria" sounds bigger in a quiet sort of way, almost as though she's auditioning for an eventual CLASSICAL LINDA album.

But that's not to say it doesn't work. I like show biz glitz as much as the next consumer. And I really find that performers eventually find their own metier. By sheerest coincidence, I happened to play this CD back to back with a rather austerely produced holiday album done by a regional singer (here in Upstate NY) named Bar Scott. The difference was striking, especially since they did many of the same songs. Bar Scott's simple, stark arrangements provided an effective counterpoint for Linda Eder's do-it-big approach.

But before you jump to the conclusion that I'm just going to launch into another "sparer is better" review, let me reiterate what I said above. Performers almost intuitively find a style that works for them. Bar Scott's intimate vocals require a starker setting. Linda Eder's big voice almost demands socko-boffo production numbers. It all works out in the end.

And besides, she does allow herself her meditative moments. I don't know whether her own collaboration with her husband, "Christmas Through the Eyes of a Child" or Wildhorn's "Christmas Stays the Same" or "Bells of St. Paul" will eventually become holiday standards themselves. But they do have that potential--particularly the title track which is sensitively and intelligently written and arranged. Put it this way, if this album were mounted as a stage production, these songs would provide the quiet moments in what would otherwise be a true extravaganza (doubtless replete with laser show, choir, dancers and maybe even a few acrobats).

And, hey, even if you really go for big production numbers, you really NEED those quiet moments.

Make no bones about it...Linda Eder is her own person. She imitates nobody and puts everything she's got into her projects. This CD is no exception and stands high among her other pieces of work. The majority of the songs are all traditional, but some of their arrangemens are so fresh and rewarding that you feel as if you're listening to an old friend for the first time. Her "Santa Claus" medley takes on the Big Band sound, while "The Little Drummer Boy" has an arrangement fitting of someone like Enya. Then there is the Aftican sound of "Do You Hear What I Hear?" and the gospel-inspired rendition of "O Holy Night". This is one of the most satisfying Christmas CDs I have come across in years and one that I have yet to tire of listening to. And if you want to just drift into your own little world, grab a glass of wine, sit in front of the fireplace or just hold a loved one (or both) and listen to her rendition of "Silent Night". I guarantee you'll be carried away to a place that only you can visit in your own mind. You'll hear the magic, the artistry, and the simplicity of a voice in such a way that epiomizes the the belief that a voice like hers is also a musical instrument demonstrated by the control, sensitity, and bravado she musters throughout this CD. I truly believe you will not be disappointed.

When you want a Christmas album to define the holidays LISTEN TO LINDA EDER! This is by far the best Christmas CD anyone can listen to. Buy it for family and friends! They will thank you every Christmas!