Music Review: Barry Manilow - In the Swing of Christmas
I'm starting to wonder if Barry Manilow ever sleeps. Since 2005 alone, the man born Barry Alan Pincus on June 17, 1943 has released three best selling albums, while starring in his own Las Vegas stage show, Manilow: Music and Passion. Despite his busy schedule, Manilow found the time to record In the Swing of Christmas, Hallmark's 2007 Christmas album.
In the Swing of Christmas features ten holiday songs: "Silver Bells," Carol of the Bells/Jingle Bells," "Joy to the World/It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year," "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas," "Violets For Your Furs," "O Tannenbaum/Winter Wonderland," "Christmas Time Is Here," "The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire)," "Toyland" and "Count Your Blessings." Manilow sings all 26 background vocals on the very lively, "Silver Bells." He is joined by MaD Fusion, a trio led by pianist Matt Herskowitz on some tracks and The Randy Kerber Trio on others. Manilow allows his love for the music of the holiday season to shine bright throughout In the Swing of Christmas. His rousing version of "Jingle Bells" will have you singing along, while his touching interpretation of Irving Berlin's "Count Your Blessings," may make you stop and think about the meaning of the season.
Produced by Barry Manilow and co-produced by Scott Erickson, Manilow says of In the Swing of Christmas, "My concept was small, sexy, [and] romantic, an album that you can play all through the Christmas season." Using a trio on each song, instead of an orchestra has allowed Barry to create a fun but intimate atmosphere; listeners can pop this CD in at parties or play it during quieter times at home.
In the Swing of Christmas is available exclusively at Hallmark Gold Crown Stores now through December 2007. You can get your copy for $7.95, with the purchase of three greeting cards. Click here to find the Hallmark Gold Crown Store in your city.
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