Amy Grant joins Elvis on “White Christmas.” The vocals are excellent but the tempo is faster than the original.
“Merry Christmas Baby” is a second blues outing and another superior track. A piano and drums dominate the instrumental backing with some clear harmonica added on the break. Gretchen Wilson doesn’t really duet with Elvis but rather adds phasing that enhances his vocal.
“O Little Town Of Bethlehem” is not a duet but a threesome. Karen Fairchild and Kimberly Schlapman bring their clear harmonies to this song and create a wonderful counterpoint. The three voices give this track a fuller sound than many of the others.
Anne Murray has a lower vocal register than the other singers on the album and as such creates a different sound when she combines it with Elvis’. “Sleigh Bells” is presented in traditional up-tempo form.
The Christmas hymn, “O Come All Ye Faithful,” finds Olivia Newton-John providing half of the duet. Her voice is not a match for Elvis, so she wisely stays in the background.
Also included are three bonus tracks of Elvis singing alone. “The First Noel,” "If I Get Home On Christmas Day," and “Winter Wonderland” have all been issued a number of times over the years. Here we find them remastered with extra instruments added. The sound is so clear that you can actually hear the intake of Elvis’ breath.
Christmas Duets presents some classic Elvis in a new and creative way. It is a good and fun holiday listen. Merry Christmas to all fans of the true king of rock ‘n’ roll!
Article comments
1 - JimmyCool
I liked this album, but I think some voices don't match very well with Elvis' unique voice.
I'll stick to the original tracks...
Although it would be a very good idea of doin' duets of Elvis' non-seasonal songs.
2 - Treasures By Brenda
Thank you for an excellent, thorough review. You have inspired me to create a section for reviews on my page at squidoo.
The link to your review is the first; hopefully, it will be joined by more.
Brenda
3 - Vera Prandi
This year Christmas will be more sensational with this outstanding CD Elvis Christmas Duets;
What a terrific idea!
Congratulations to the author of the idea!
Vera Prandi