Bloggerhythms

In 1990 The Roches issued We Three Kings, a most intriquing and entertaining Christmas album that is unique in every way. It clocks in at over 58 minutes and contains twenty-four songs. The sisters from New York City who sing effortless harmonies on this album are, as usual, distinctly offbeat and to many an acquired taste. The trio is completely different from nearly everyone who ever sang into a microphone for a living, yet their work is mostly rewarding. The same is true on this Christmas CD. Terre Roche's "Star of Wonder," is one of two originals. It's also one of several acapella tracks offered here. Other highlights include a sunny and straightforward version of "Sleigh Ride," another acapella arrangement, and one of my personal seasonal favorites, "The Holly and The Ivy." The long set list is quite varied. The group includes a lot of seasonal pop classics but they're not afraid to embrace a significant number of traditional caro...

For years I've owned Peter Cetera's "Silent Night," a song I obtained from someone I used to know who was a member of an old Chicago fan forum. While I like the track quite a bit I knew nothing about it except that it was the work of the former vocalist and bass player for Chicago. "Silent Night" is an unusual arrangement for Cetera and his voice is not easily recognizable on this fun holiday tune. It's also quite brief, clocking in at 2:18, and falls squarely into the realm of country music. Some people consider Cetera's version of this much loved carol to be almost sacrilegious because he quickens the pace of the melody quite a bit, thereby removing much of its spirituality. Since I've always been the curious type when it comes to music I wanted to find out more about this rarity so I contacted another old forum friend who is a big Cetera fan. He knew enough to help me find most of what I needed without much effort. (Thank you, sir). ...