XMAS - beginning to look a lot like

I’m continuing with the Christmas theme this week. I have so many selections to choose from that I find it difficult to decide among them for want of always finding the next greatest and have to have. I decided among the relatively unknown, the true classic and must posts.

Evidence One: We Need A Little Christmas – Lynette Perry
This is from the Broadway production of one of my favorite movies of all time, Mame (the one with Rosalind Russell of course, not Lucille Ball). Anyway, this is a somewhat familiar song for the season that you never really hear. Although, I do catch it once in a while sung by one of those bland, mid-eighties so-called jazz singers. But, not done as well as how Lynette handles it.

Evidence Two: Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas – The Pretenders
Bar none, this is the definitive version for me. A truly heartfelt and sincere rendition by Ms. Chrissy Hynde that has not been equaled, before or after. It just has not happened. The instrumentation is top notch, the players in absolute pristine, perfect form, the gentle sway that tugs and adds to the tapestry of emotion … I say again, it has not been better than this.

Evidence Three: Christmas Moon – Jackie Gleason
Speaking of the gentle sway, it would not (emphasizing once more), would not be the Christmas season without the sultry sounds of Jackie’s Christmas sounds. Reminds me of the heyday of cocktail parties in Vermont during the snowstorm – the smell of roasting chestnuts, old-fashioned ornaments on the tree, fondue on the table and the purity of the falling snow muting civilization for many, many miles. Relax, lay back, make eye contact from across the sofa, raise the glass, wink with one eye and smile. How sweet it is!

Evidence Four: No Room At The Inn – Mahalia Jackson
Sister Mahalia brings soulful spirit just at the time when we need it most. Belting it out with her one of a kind authoritative vocal she sings matter of fact that as the time had come for the Savior to be born There Was No Room At The Inn. Simple in its elegance with only a piano, bass and vibes to accompany her, our most spiritual leader gathers us up to praise with song. Peerless and divine. Amen.

Evidence Five: Sleigh Bells – Johnny Mathis
A goofy looking brother in a sherbet-colored sweater with the voice to die for. This Arthur Fiedler penned Christmas themed jaunt is one of a handful of perfect version that just can’t be bested. His articulation is flawless, his pitch spot-on – the consummate blessed professional. This tune is the perfect accompaniment to placing those first few ornaments on the tree.

Lynette Perry: We Need A Little Christmas
From: A Broadway Christmas [1994]

The Pretenders: Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas
From: A Very Special Christmas [1989]

Jackie Gleason: Christmas Moon
From: 'Tis The Season [1967]

Mahalia Jackson: No Room At The Inn
From: Silent Night, Holy Night [1992]

Johnny Mathis: Sleigh Ride
From: Christmas Album [2003](CD)