CD Review: Tony Bennett -- "Snowfall: The Tony Bennett Christmas Album" remastered from '68

Snowfall: The Tony Bennett Christmas Album
Tony Bennett
(Sony)

Growing up a Jew perpetually envious of my Christian friends during the holidays, I finally understand why I resent them — and it's Snowfall: The Tony Bennett Christmas Album.

This album embodies every Christmas memory I wish I had.

Bennett covers the staples, then throws in a most-epic “Medley: We Wish You a Merry Christmas/Silent Night, Holy Night/O Come All Ye Faithful/Jingle Bells/Where Is Love (from Oliver).” Phew. This near-six-minute kamikazi Slurpee of holiday cheer matches swoon-worthy renditions of “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” and covers of “My Favorite Things” from the Sound of Music.

Balancing jazz and classical, Bennett's studley voice perfectly compliments the full orchestras and full choirs. Snowfall goes down classy compared to the over-produced cheese clogging retail aisles after Black Friday. It works with holiday parties, office get-togethers and finals study sessions — plus it also makes a great gift with its DVD extra.

What Jew needs a White Christmas when you can have “Snowfall” with Tony? --Melissa Baron