One of my contacts at Universal Music Group graciously provided me with a coveted copy of Italian opera singer Andrea Bocelli's new release.
The Christmas album - carols are my favorite, by the way - is a beautiful collection of traditional yuletide songs with a handful of modern favorites (penned in recent years by contemporary composers) tossed in for good measure which not only underscore Mr. Bocelli's versality - but also - his keen ability to unravel the very heartbeat of a song.
With a lot of verve and style, he nabs it musically with his renditions of "Santa Clause is coming to Town", "Blue Christmas" (accompanied by Reba McEntire), and "Jingle Bells" (Muppets back up).
A few tunes were recorded in French, Italian, and German:
"Oh Holy Night" is a haunting example which touches the heart.
A duet with Natalie Cole (A Christmas Song) is as smooth as butter!
Gosh, I'd love to share a few bars with you, but in receiving the exclsive watermarked copy e-mailed to me for purposes of getting the word out to my readers during the holiday season, I am bound by an agreement not to release any of the material to third parties.
Darn it!
Take my word for it, if you're an Andrea Bocelli fan (even if you're not) the enchanting recordings (enchanced by angelic choir-boy voices, heart-tugging strings, and whimsical musical interludes) are a must-have for the upcoming Christmas celebrations.
And, even though it's not December 1st yet (when the FTC rules kick-in for mandatory blogger disclosure) I'll wholeheartedly note for the record that if the album wasn't gifted me for review purposes, I would have laid down cold-hard cash for the listening pleasure anyhoo!
So, don't get your knickers in a twist - FTC officials - eh?
Bocelli was born in Lajatico, Tuscany (Italy) to Alessandro and Edi Bocelli.
In spite of his lofty world status today as a renowned crooner, Andrea grew up on a humble farm.
As a young boy, Bocelli showed a great natural gift (and passion) for music.
"Music was the only thing that would comfort him," his mother fondly recalled.
At the age of six he first started-up with piano lessons, then went on to master the flute, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, harp, guitar and drums.
Whew!
What a musical whiz, eh?
Unfortuately, Bocelli was diagnosed with glaucoma in his early youth.
In 1970, at the age of 12, he completely lost his sight after an accident during a game of sports.
After he finished high school (1980) he studied Law at the University of Pisa.
He graduated as a Doctor of Laws and spent one year as an attorney (appointed by the court).
In his lean days, Bocelli performed evenings in piano bars.
It was there, in 1987, that he met his future wife, Enrica.
Although Bocelli has a large following - and can do no wrong in their estimation (musically or otherwise) - the handsome pop/opera singer has been overly criticised by classical music critics in opera circles (Bernard Holland/New York Times & Andrew Clement/The Guardian).
Some say "poor phrasing, uneven tone and lack of technique", hinder Bocelli's chances of reaching greater heights in musical realms in a more serious vein.
My best advice to Andrea is to continue with his own style - since it has served him well - and brings much joy to music-lovers around the globe.
Who could ask for anything more?
In closing, I'd be remiss if I didn't mention that there are upcoming concert dates on the boards for fans who are chopping-at-the-bit to catch the charismatic performer live! on stage.
The December engagement in Vegas may be sold out, but check it out, maybe you'll get lucky!
