Personnel includes: Barbra Streisand (vocals); Dean Parks, George Doering, Michael Thompson, Michael Landau, John Chiodini (guitar); Gayle Levant (harp); Gary Grant (horn); Randy Waldman, Tom Rainer, Mike Lang, David Foster, Robbie Buchanan (keyboards); Neil Stubenhaus, Chuck Domanico, Dave Carpenter (bass); John Robinson, Peter Erskine, Vinnie Colaiuta (drums); Wendi Wagner, Sue Ann Carwell (background vocals).
Recorded between July 19, 2001 and September 7, 2001. Includes liner notes by Jay Landers.
CHRISTMAS MEMORIES was nominated for the 2003 Grammy Awards for Best
Traditional Pop Vocal Album.
Barbra Streisand's first new holiday album in 34 years makes for a special occasion amongst her legions of fans. CHRISTMAS MEMORIES, released within two months of the World Trade Center tragedy, is definitely a soothing, inspirational remedy for troubled times. "I'll be Home for Christmas" has been recorded hundreds of times, but in the context of American troops fighting abroad, the song becomes especially poignant. Barbra does a masterful take, with a polished, orchestral arrangement. Still glowing from saying "I Do" to actor James Brolin, Streisand shines on "A Christmas Love Song."
Break out the chestnuts and eggnog as Babs warmly reminisces with vivid imagery on the Sondheim-penned "I Remember." Having recorded Gounod's "Ave Maria" on her first Christmas album, Barbra now brings that same passion to Schubert's version. Backed by a choir, the grandiose track resonates powerfully. Her voice soars to especially grand heights over a majestic arrangement on "One God," a song she first heard on a spiritual album by Johnny Mathis, and brings her unique style to the forefront on CHRISTMAS MEMORIES.
What the critics say...
Entertainment Weekly (11/30/01, pp.89-90) - "...This is her best-chosen studio set in years, even decades..." - Rating: B
