The LIST
Ever since I came into the computer age, I've wished that someone would collect up all the new holiday releases in an easy to follow chronological format, differentiating (somehow) between vinyl and CD, between new and reissue, etc.
I created just such a list over at FaLaLaLaLa in 2010--a centralized resource, updated continuously, for the obsessive Christmas music hunters like myself. For 2011, this will be the spot to check. Check The List and check it twice to ensure you find your personal (naughty and nice) holiday favorites.
NEW / REISSUE / DIGITAL ONLY / DIGITAL REISSUE / VINYL / CD-DVD / DVD / EXCLUSIVE / IMPORT
APRIL 15
BLAKE AARON--"A Romantic Christmas" (reissue of 2006 Smooth Jazz album)
D-LUCCA--"Have Yourself A Fretless Little Christmas" (reissue of 2007 Smooth Jazz album)
MAY 17
THE OPIATE MASS--"From The Belly Of A Woman"
MAY 18
KEN GRIFFIN--"The Organ Plays At Christmas" (digital reissue of 1955 Columbia LP)
JUNE 7
MICHELE PILLAR (with Larry Carlton)--"I Hear Angels Calling" (reissue of 2006 CD from Christian singer and her jazz guitarist husband)
JUNE 28
ROY ROGERS & DALE EVANS--"Christmas Is Always" (cowboy couple's 1967 Capitol album, released on CD a decade ago)
JULY 19
MESHUGGA BEACH PARTY--"Hot Rod Hanukkah" (The Chosen Surfers return with special guest Duane Eddy)
JULY 20
THE LENNON SISTERS--"Christmas With The Lennon Sisters" (1961 album, originally issued on CD in 1989)
AUGUST 11
VARIOUS--"Christmas Celebration" (Import collection of vintage Beautiful Music including out-of-print cuts from Percy Faith, George Melachrino, etc.)
AUGUST 16
MANOR HOUSE STRING QUARTET--"It Came Upon The Midnight Clear" (follow up to 2010's "I Saw Three Ships")
AUGUST 23
VARIOUS--"Christmas From The Blue Note" (limited Jazz release November 2010, wide release this year)
AUGUST 30
HEARTBEAT BOYS--"Tell Everybody It's Christmas" (Maurice Starr's latest Boy Band creation)
SEPTEMBER 1
MEDWYN GOODALL--"Gifts of Comfort & Joy" (Digital reissue of 1989 New Age set)
DOUG MUNRO--"A Very Gypsy Christmas" (Jazz guitar virtuoso pays tribute to the holiday in the style of Django Reinhardt)
CHAD WOOLNER--"Hymns Made Of String"
SEPTEMBER 6
DALE BURKE--"When Is It Christmas Time?" (Second Christmas album from long time Jazz vocalist and trumpet player; available on CD-R)
PHIL DRISCOLL--"The Spirit Of Christmas" (Digital reissue of greatly under-appreciated album from 1986, released on CD in 2000)
RANDI FAY--"Noel" (Easy Listening vocals from Michigan native)
THE LETTERMEN--"It Feels Like Christmas" (Digital reissue of classic 1966 album, released on CD in 1992 and 2006)
ANDY MONROE--"Songs For A Winter's Night" (Winter songs from eclectic artist who has sort of a James Taylor meets Enya vibe)
MORMON TABERNACLE CHOIR featuring DAVID ARCHULETA--"Glad Christmas Tidings" (2010 Live performance)
MORMON TABERNACLE CHOIR featuring DAVID ARCHULETA--"Glad Christmas Tidings" (2010 Live performance on Blu-Ray & DVD)
SEPTEMBER 13
BILL ANDERSON--"No Place Like Home On Christmas" (reissue of out-of-print CD from 2002, in which Bill revisited his Xmas songs from 1969)
DEBBY BOONE--"Home For Christmas" (reissue of 1989 album, last re-issued in 2002)
OLIVER JONES, RANEE LEE, & the MONTREAL JUBILATION GOSPEL CHOIR--"A Celebration In Time" (hard copy of 2010 digital release)
LUCIANO PAVAROTTI--"A Passion For Pavarotti: The Christmas Album" (Budget priced package of some of the late tenor's Christmas recordings)
VIVA GIRLS--"A Viva Girls Christmas" (hard copy American release of 2010 EP, available digitally, from Chinese orchestral pop outfit)
VARIOUS--"Haynes Ultimate Guide To...Christmas" (Part of an Import series of compilations from Sony)
SEPTEMBER 17
INJUNUITY--"Nativity" (World/New Age instrumental music featuring the Native American Flute)
SEPTEMBER 20
SHIRLEY CAESAR--"Giving and Sharing: A Christmas Collection" (Gospel legend compiles some of her inspirational holiday best)
BILL HARRIS--"Holiday Improvisations" (reissue of out-of-print 1998 solo piano Jazz album, digitally released in 2007)
FIONA JOY HAWKINS--"Christmas Joy" (New Age pianist with strong followings in both Jazz and Classical music)
DEAN MARTIN--"My Kind Of Christmas (2011 edition)" (Original released in 2009. Difference here is a duet with Scarlett Johansson on track 9.)
DEANA MARTIN--"White Christmas" (Dean Martin's daughter carries on his legacy with a sweet and swingin' set; includes a duet with Andy Williams)
MARK O'CONNOR--"Appalachian Christmas" (violinist respected by devotees of bluegrass, country, jazz, classical, and other genres)
VARIOUS--"Soap Sessions: Merry Download Christmas" (Soap Opera stars sing Christmas songs)
SEPTEMBER 27
JEFFERY BIEGEL--"A Steinway Christmas Album" (Did you know the piano manufacturer had its own record label?)
STEVEN CURTIS CHAPMAN--"The Music Of Christmas"/"All I Really Want For Christmas" (two-fer featuring albums from 1995 and 2005)
HARRY CONNICK JR. TRIO--"Music From The Happy Elf" (latest incarnation of Harry's holiday brainchild features stripped down trio Jazz)
BABA ELEFANTE--"BASSic Christmas" (California Jazz artist's 2009 album of Christmas songs performed on bass accompanied by bass)
AMY GRANT--"A Christmas Album"/"A Christmas To Remember" (two-fer featuring albums from 1983 and 1999)
AMY GRANT--"Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas" (Budget priced collection spotted at Wal-Mart, but not listed as exclusive)
MIKE PACHELLI--"Jazzy Guitar Christmas" (Talented guitarist equally adept at quiet acoustic and raucous electric; released digitally in 2009)
RICKY SKAGGS--"Skaggs Family Christmas, Vol. 2" (CD/DVD; follow-up to 2005 CD "Scaggs Family Christmas, Vol. 1")
JOHN TWO-HAWKS--"Heaven And Nature Sing" (Folk music from Grammy and Emmy nominated Native American artist)
VARIOUS--"Cocktail Christmas" (From the Metropolitan Museum of Art; Interesting 2-disc set of Lounge & Traditional favorites, plus a surprise or two)
VARIOUS--"Have Yourself A Merry Little Country Christmas" (Kohl's exclusive; 100% of the net profit for this $5 disc benefits Kohl's Cares)
VARIOUS--"Now Christmas, Volume 4: The Carol Edition" (Bah Humbug! Same as 2010 "Now Christmas 4", but with lyric sheet included)
VARIOUS--"WOW Christmas 2011" (the Christian answer to the "Now" series rolls on; the 2-CD set includes the new track from Tenth Avenue North)
SEPTEMBER 28
MIKE AIKEN--"Almost Christmas" (3 covers and 3 originals make up this EP from Country singer with a touch of Jimmy Buffett in his soul)
DAMAGE CONTROL COMEDY--"Christmas Is Cancelled" [Explicit] (Second Christmas set from Florida comedy troupe)
KIM HILL--"Christmas Back To You" (Country Christian and Americana artist with her second Christmas album)
OCTOBER
VARIOUS--"Fleas Naughty Dog, Volume 1" (digital hard rock collection from last year makes its way to hard copy CD)
OCTOBER 4
JIM CARTER--"Christmas 2" (Homemade New Age recordings from former cast member of the national touring company of "Hair")
CHICAGO--"Chicago XXXIII: O Christmas Three"
NAT KING COLE--"Christmas With Nat King Cole" (Budget priced Import)
DAVID CROWDER BAND--"Oh For Joy" (Christian Alt Rock band)
BOBBY DARIN--"Christmas With Bobby Darin" (Budget priced Import)
STEVE GREEN--"The First Noel"/"Joy To The World" (two-fer featuring albums from 1987 and 1996)
PHILLIPS, CRAIG & DEAN/AVALON--"Repeat The Sounding Joy"/"Joy" (two-fer featuring albums from 1996 and 2000)
JERSEY BOYS--"Seasons Greetings" (cast of Broadway musical about Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons)
KUTLESS--"This Is Christmas" (6 track CD-EP from Portland Post-Grunge band)
TOBY MAC--"Christmas In Diverse City" (new Xmas CD from CCM Pop/Hip Hop artist, featuring 2010 single duet with Leigh Nash)
MANNHEIM STEAMROLLER--"Hometown" (Lowe's Home Improvement exclusive)
DEAN MARTIN--"Winter Dreams" (Budget priced Import pairing "A Winter Romance" with "Sleep Warm")
GLENN MILLER ORCHESTRA--"In The Swinging Christmas Mood" (Budget priced Import)
FRANK SINATRA--"A Jolly Christmas" (Last year's vinyl reissue of this 1957 classic was a far bigger deal, but in case you don't already own this...)
VEGGIETALES--"O Holy Night: Journey Of A Little Drummer Boy"
MATTHEW WEST--"The Heart Of Christmas" (first full-length holiday album from this Contemporary Christian artist)
VARIOUS--"Epitome Of Cool At Christmas" (Budget priced Import)
VARIOUS--"Gospel Christmas" (All-star package of Gospel Christmas music featuring James Cleveland, Shirley Caesar, Solomon Burke, etc.)
VARIOUS--"Ostrock X-Mas II" (German collection of German Christmas hits in German; check "Volume 1" from last year to get the gist)
VARIOUS--"Rockin' Around The Christmas Tree" (Christian Rock compilation featuring August Burns Red, Demon Hunter, The Almost, & more)
VARIOUS--"Smooth Jazz Christmas"/"A Fireside Christmas" (two-fer featuring albums from 2007 and 1994)
VARIOUS--"A Smooth Jazz Holiday" (reissue of 2008 Circuit City exclusive "Grooves Of The Season", previously reissued as "Smooth Soul Holiday")
VARIOUS--"Sweethearts & Stolen Christmas Kisses 2" (Budget priced Import)
VARIOUS--"The Majesty & Glory Of Christmas"/"The Beauty of Christmas" (two-fer featuring albums from 1990 and 1998)
VARIOUS--"This Is Christmas Too!" (Budget priced Import)
VARIOUS--"Tinsel & Turkey" (Budget priced Import)
OCTOBER 5
TOM TAYLOR--"Back Home For Christmas" (Christian singer/songwriter based in Seattle)
THREE BRIDGES--"Christmas Must Be Tonight" (2nd Christmas CD from Southern Gospel group--first with Shannon Smith, formerly of the Imperials)
OCTOBER 7
RONDA ADAMS--"Radiant Light" (Very pretty instrumental collection; definitely worth checking out)
KARLING--"Christmas With Karling" (Rockabilly/Americana from California sweetheart; hard copy expected in November)
OCTOBER 11
GERI ALLEN--"A CHILD IS BORN" (Jazz pianist with her first Christmas effort)
PAUL ANKA--"Songs For Christmas" (Budget Import collection of Anka's old stuff repackaged; new Christmas Anka music coming November 1)
TONY BENNETT--"The Classic Christmas Album" (A collection of Bennett's best holiday tracks through the years, 18 songs in all, at a budget price)
BLENDERS--"Christmas Light" (At least the 8th Christmas release--counting collections, DVDs and spoofs--from popular Midwest vocal group)
BLEST--"Feliz Navidad" (2nd Christmas set from Miami based Latin Christian Pop trio; I believe there are hard copies, but haven't seen them yet)
BOBBY DARIN--"Songs For Christmas" (Budget Import collection of Bobby Darin's holiday music repackaged)
CRAIG DUNCAN--"Irish Country Christmas" (traditional Celtic instrumentals in this followup to 2003's "Irish Christmas")
ELLA FITZGERALD--"Songs For Christmas" (Budget Import collection of Ella's holiday music repackaged)
GINUWINE--"A Ginuwine Christmas" (The R&B artist and BET and Soul Train Award winner has been prolific of late)
GINUWINE--"A Ginuwine Christmas" (Hard copy CD of this set is a Target exclusive; no link as yet--might be you'll have to hit the store)
H2--"Home For The Holidays" (Jazz combo led by Mike Herriott and Sean Harkness)
JOEY + RORY--"A Farmhouse Christmas" (husband and wife Country duo; guest appearance by Merle Haggard)
LORI MECHEM QUARTET--"Christmas Is Coming: A Jazz Tribute to A Charlie Brown Christmas" (Smooth Jazz from Green Hill)
MANNHEIM STEAMROLLER--"Christmas Symphony"
ELLIS MARSALIS--"A New Orleans Christmas Carol" (appears to be a reissue of out-of-print 2002 Christmas CD with 3 added tracks)
THE MIRACLES--"A Soulful Christmas" (latest re-issue of 2001 post-Smokey holiday collection)
PINK MARTINI--"Joy To The World, Part II" (2nd of 3 limited edition vinyl 10" feat. tracks from 2010 holiday CD; proceeds to charity)
PRO ARTE SINGERS--"Christmas With The Pro Arte Singers"
REVELS--"Sing Noel: A European Christmas Revels"
CAROLYN SOUTHWORTH--"Home For Christmas" (This one was a really nice surprise; if pressed I'd call it New Age; samples here)
THE STAR-SCAPE SINGERS--"The Song--The Heart Of Christmas" (Digital reissue of 1985 choral set features the late Chris Dedrick of Free Design)
SWING SISTERS--"Swingin' X-mas" (Digital reissue of 1997 set from Danish nostalgia act, not to be confused with the US nostalgia act or Sister Swing)
KATHY TROCCOLI--"Christmas Songs" (Contemporary Christian singer's first full-length holiday album since 1999's "Sentimental Christmas")
BENJAMIN UTECHT--"Christmas Hope" (Inspirational vocals from former Colts Super Bowl Champion Tight End)
VINEYARD U.K. WORSHIP--"Christmas From The Vineyard"
JOHN ZORN--"A Dreamers Christmas"
JOHN ZORN--"A Dreamers Christmas" (vinyl LP version)
JOHN ZORN--"The Christmas Song" (vocals by Mike Patton)/"Santa's Workshop" (7" vinyl from "A Dreamers Christmas")
VARIOUS--"A Christmas Together, Vol. 2" (West Coast CCM collection; digital through Amazon, etc., hard copy should be at Jadon Lavik's web store)
VARIOUS--"Home For Christmas: FM 100 2011" (annual CD benefitting The Road Home; this year feat. Mindy Gledhill, Hilary Weeks, Alex Boye, etc.)
VARIOUS--"It's Christmas Time" (Soulful Takes on Seasonal standards from Gospel/Smooth Jazz label affiliated with Ashro/Colony Brands apparel)
VARIOUS--"Putumayo Presents Celtic Christmas" (World music label focuses on the Emerald Isle--features Teresa Doyle, Dougie MacLean, etc.)
VARIOUS--"Top Latino Navidad, Volume 2"
VARIOUS--"A Very Country Christmas" (Target exclusive featuring new tracks from Kellie Pickler, Jake Owen, Brad Paisley and more)
OCTOBER 13
SHANA SAINT--"Unexpected" (Young artist on a DIY label deserves to be heard even though the backing tracks are often busy & beneath her abilities)
OCTOBER 15
KEITH & KRISTYN GETTY--"Joy - An Irish Christmas" (Traditional and original hymns with an Irish lilt from popular CCM couple; nice stuff)
DANA JORGENSEN--"Christmas And Hymns" (EP from Indie Christian Pop/Rock artist)
VARIOUS--"Christmas In The Mountains, Vol. 5" (Artists from NC High Country recording to benefit Hunger & Health Coalition, review of Vol. IV here)
OCTOBER 18
MANDY BARNETT--"Winter Wonderland" (2010 Cracker Barrel Exclusive gets wide release; read our review here)
The BROADWAY BOYS--"Hark!" (Broadway stars meld pop and funk with musical theatre)
FFH--"One Silent Night" (Contemporary Christian group)
MINDY GLEDHILL--"Winter Moon"
DAVE KOZ--"Ultimate Christmas" (A collection of Dave's best Christmas tracks over the years)
HALIE LOREN & MATT TREDER--"Many Times Many Ways" (Re-issue of fine 2008 set from Jazz chanteuse)
CHRISTINE MILLER--"All Is Bright" (A mix of Smooth Jazz, Pop, New Age, Christian, R&B, etc.; doesn't work for me, but then who am I?)
MOAT JUMPER--"Christmas At The Renaissance Fair" (Renaissance Fair super-group performing festive holiday favorites Medieval style)
DARRELL NORTH--"Have A Good Christmas" (Former FBI agent with an album of acoustic guitar instrumentals; features two originals)
THE PATRICK BROTHERS--"Christmas With The Patrick Brothers" (Original songs in an old time country style from Illinois artist; mp3 via Amazon)
PETER, PAUL & MARY--"The Holiday Concert" (Legendary late 80s PBS special, long out-of-print on VHS, comes to DVD for the first time)
HEATHER RAMSEY--"Peace Like A River" (Very nice and varied Christmas Jazz album from Indianapolis vocalist)
THE WIGGLES--"It's Always Christmas With You" (The latest children's set from the Australian troupe; Joey Fatone of *NSync sings "O Holy Night")
THE WIGGLES--"It's Always Christmas With You" (CD version of above)
VARIOUS--"Celtic Angels At Christmas" (Six of the world's top female Celtic performers display their talents in a Christmas program)
VARIOUS--"Christmas Hymns & Carols" (a collection of hymns and carols featuring Leigh Nash, Kelly Minter, Aaron Keyes and more)
OCTOBER 21
JIM HITCHCOCK--"Coast Highway Christmas" (California Christian Rock charity album; the Byrds meet the Eagles)
STRATOCRUISER--"Holiday Music" (CD-R collection of NC Power Pop band's annual Christmas singles)
OCTOBER 25
THE BELLRAYS--"Merry Christmas From The BellRays" (re-issue of 2005 5-song EP from California Blues Punk/Soulful Rock band)
BILLY & THE ESSENTIALS--"Christmas Album" (Newly recorded songs from classic Doo Wop group and former Cameo/Parkway artist)
BOWLING FOR SOUP--"Merry Flippin' Christmas, Vol. 1" (same as last year's download only set, but with one additional track)
DEBORAH EDWARDS BRADLEY--"Tis The Season" (DC area Contemporary Gospel singer)
MICHAEL BUBLE--"Christmas" (Exclusive version with 3 additional tracks only available through Michael Buble's web site)
MICHAEL BUBLE--"Christmas"
SHAUNA BURNS--"A Winter Gathering" (Celtic flavored set from Indie artist who may remind you of Tori Amos)
CHANTICLEER--"Our Favorite Carols"
VIC DANA--"Little Alter Boy" (Digital reissue of underrated 1966 album)
TOMMY EMMANUEL--"All I Want For Christmas"
SUGAR RAY FORD & THE HOT SHOTS--Christmas EP (digital reissue of 1989 UK neo-swing vinyl)
FIONA JOY HAWKINS--"Christmas Joy" (Super Audio CD of 9/20 release; SACDs offer higher fidelity but SACD player is required)
JACK & DALE--"Christmas Is Everywhere" (Mixed bag all original set from Ohio rock vets; recommended track: "Get The Reindeer Runnin'")
JILLAINE--"Jazzy Christmas To You!" (Jazz and Blues artist from Utah turns in a solid and noteworthy self-issued holiday set)
KEB MO--"The Spirit Of The Holiday" (Digital collection of Roots artist's 4 holiday tracks, which haven't always been easy to find in the past)
ANDRE KOSTELANETZ--"Wonderland Of Christmas" (CD-R from ArkivMusic of 1963 classic NEVER BEFORE ON CD!!!)
ANDRE KOSTELANETZ--"Wonderland Of Christmas" (Digital version of above will actually be available 10/21, but putting it here made more sense)
THE JOHNNY MANN SINGERS--"We Wish You A Merry Christmas" (Digital reissue of 1967 album)
ERIN McKEOWN--"F#ck That! Erin McKeown's Anti-Holiday Album" (Indie Folk Pop artist's irreverent take on the season)
MARTY MERCHANT--"Christmas Country Style" (FIRST TIME ON CD, so far as I can tell, of 1982 LP that should appeal mostly to kids)
BUCK OWENS & SUSAN RAYE--"Merry Christmas From Buck & Susan" (1971 album's FIRST TIME ON CD!!!)
VANESSA PETERS--"The Christmas We Hoped For" (Indie folk/rock)
CLIFF RICHARD--"Together With Cliff Richard At Christmas" (Reissue of 1991 holiday compilation)
JOHN RUTTER--"The Colors Of Christmas"
SHE & HIM--"Very She & Him Christmas"
SHE & HIM--"Very She & Him Christmas" (vinyl LP version)
RED SIMPSON--"Truckers' Christmas" (Digital Reissue of 1973 Country album)
SLUGS & BUGS--"Sluggs & Bugs Christmas" (Connecting Christianity and Childrens music)
SUE TICE & FAMILY--"The Angels Danced" (Renowned Bluegrass fiddler with a collection of folk instrumentals)
SCOTT WEILAND--"Most Wonderful Time Of The Year" (Stone Temple Pilots frontman turns Christmas crooner)
MATT WERTZ--"Snow Globe"
VARIOUS--"The Best Of Christmas" (Digital reissue of classic Capitol collection; vinyl version released in 1968, CD in 1991)
VARIOUS--"Christmas Along The Crooked Road" (Appalachian bluegrass and old timey from Virginia and NC greats)
VARIOUS--"Christmas Kisses" (Digital reissue of classic Capitol collection from 1990; cooler on CD, but cool in any case)
VARIOUS--"The Country Christmas Collection" (Canadian release from Open Road/Big Machine; featuring Jewel, Steel Magnolia, and more)
VARIOUS--"The Country Christmas Collection" (US Exclusive of above through Colonial Candle; comes as part of a holiday gift set)
VARIOUS--"Happy Holidays" (Digital reissue of classic Capitol collection from 1993; cooler on CD, but cool in any case)
VARIOUS--"Let It Snow!" (Digital reissue of classic Capitol collection from 1992; cooler on CD, but cool in any case)
VARIOUS--"Merry Christmas Baby: Romance & Reindeer" (Digital reissue of classic Capitol collection from 1991; cooler on CD, but cool in any case)
VARIOUS--"Nativity Set" (Latest twist on the Yule Log--holiday music plays while you watch a Nativity set. Seriously?)
VARIOUS--"Yule Love Trop Rock" (Trop Rock Xmas tunes collection to benefit Melanoma Research Foundation; from BeachFront radio)
"UKULELE CHRISTMAS" (Finally able to report that these are fairly generic no-name instrumentals featuring the uke; nothing special, but not bad)
OCTOBER 29
JONATHAN JONES--"Christmas In Our Shorts" (5 song EP from the vocalist and keyboard player for Indie's We Shot The Moon)
OCTOBER 31
PER NIELSEN--"Christmas Joy" (Easy Listening trumpet from Denmark)
VARIOUS--"NOW Christmas 2011" (9th edition of Danish NOW-ness)
NOVEMBER 1
BUTCH BARBELLA'S STREETS OF THE BRONX BAND--"Bronx Christmas Party" (Street corner harmonies from former Earls & Duprees singer)
JUSTIN BIEBER--"Under The Mistletoe"
JUSTIN BIEBER--"Under The Mistletoe [Deluxe Edition]" (CD/DVD combo pack of above)
BLACK LABEL SOCIETY--"Glorious Christmas Songs To Make Your Black Label Heart Feel Good" (3 song digital EP from Zakk Wylde & Co.)
JIM BRICKMAN--"All Is Calm" (Target exclusive, also available through Brickman's on line web store)
CLARENCE CLEMONS--"There's Still Christmas"/"The Christmas Song" (Recorded in 1981; hard copy expected around Thanksgiving)
LORELYN DOSSET & VARIOUS--"The Gathering" (NC Appalachian music)
ECLIPSE--"It's Christmastime" (new Christmas CD from LDS a cappella group who released "Three Kings" in 2003)
JACKIE EVANCHO--"Heavenly Christmas" (Wal-Mart exclusive)
JIMMY "DUCK" HOLMES--"Christmas Alone"/"Merry Christmas Baby" (Red vinyl Delta Blues single from the last of the Bentonia Bluesmen)
KARLING--"Christmas With Karling" (Hard copy release of 10/7 Rockabilly/Americana set from Karling Abbeygate)
CAROLE KING--"A Holiday Carole"
CAROLE KING--"A Holiday Carole" (Vinyl LP version of above)
CAROLE KING--"A Holiday Carole" [Deluxe Package]" (Includes Christmas ornament and card, plus 12x12 autographed lithograph limited to 300)
CAROLE KING--"A Holiday Carole" (Target exclusive version features 3 bonus tracks)
MARGOT KRIMMEL & BETH LEACHMAN-GADAW--"Icy December" (Indie Celtic from Colorado)
JADON LAVIK--"Christmas" (wide release of 2010 West Coast CCM album previously only available digitally or, in hard copy, direct from artist)
CHAD LAWSON--"Solo Piano Christmas" (What it says)
LIBERA--"The Christmas Album"
LIBERA--"The Christmas Album [Deluxe Edition]" (contains song cards and Christmas ornament)
JONNY LIPFORD--"Cedar And Snow" (19 year old player of New Age, Smooth Jazz, and Native American music on Native American flute)
RICHARD MARX--"The Christmas EP"
HAWK NELSON--"Christmas" (Christian Pop/Punk Band)
PAUL PARNELL--"Pretend It's Christmas" (Indiana singer/songwriter with an all original holiday set)
KYLE PEDERSON--"12.25" (Solo piano New Age in the spirit of Windham Hill)
NINA REPETA--"Nina Repeta's Christmas" (Acoustic and somewhat jazzy set from former "Dawson's Creek" star)
JOHNSON ROBERTS, LEE ANN ROBERTS & LEE HOLLAND--"Good People All, This Christmas Time" (Christian Folk Music)
JULIE ROBERTS--"Who Needs Mistletoe" (6 song EP from Jazz-tinged Country singer; hard copy CD-EP available from the artist)
THE ROCHES--"We Three Kings" (CD-R reissue of expanded version of the brilliant 1990 folk harmony album from Maggie, Terre & Suzzy Roche)
MARK SMEBY--"Christmas" ("Inspirational Pop" from Nashville artist)
SLIM MAN--"All I Want For Christmas" (reissue of 2000 release; Jazz Pop Christmas vocals like they used to make em)
SLIM MAN--"Christmas Eve" (reissue of 2008 release; more acoustic & intimate than 2000 set; features duet with Tony Bennett's daughter Antonia)
SMALLTOWN POETS--"Christmas" (Highly regarded Christian Alt Rock outfit; preview tracks, including last year's digital Xmas single, on Bandcamp)
MEAGHAN SMITH--"It Snowed" (Juno Award winning Indie Pop singer)
CHRIS STANDRING & KATHRIN SHORR--"Send Me Some Snow"
STAN TRACEY QUARTET--"A Child's Christmas (Jazz Suite)" (Jazz suite inspired by Dylan Thomas' "A Child's Christmas In Wales")
KELLI TROTTIER--"Memories of Christmas"
THE VARA-TONES--"Have Yourself A Vara Merry Christmas" (High Energy 60s style surf rock music in the vein of Dick Dale, etc.)
VARIOUS--"The Broken Christmas" (Long out of print 1988 classic from trailblazing Contemporary Christian label; diverse yet cohesive)
VARIOUS--"Carols For A Cure, Volume 13" (Broadway stars sing Xmas songs to benefit BC/EFA; this year's includes Daniel Radcliffe aka Harry Potter)
VARIOUS--"Garage Band Christmas, Volume 3" (more fun holiday tunes, garage rock style, from Collectables)
VARIOUS--"Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas" (Jazz comp from Canada's Justin Time Records features Hank Jones, Diana Krall, and more)
VARIOUS--"Indieciembre" (Digital compilation of some of the hottest Indie bands from Latin America)
VARIOUS--"Sing Off: Songs Of The Season" (Christmas album from NBC reality show "Sing Off" competition)
ORIGINAL CAST--"Elf: The Broadway Musical"
SOUNDTRACK--"A Very Harold & Kumar 3D Christmas" (Film opens Nov. 4; hard copy soundtrack due Nov. 15)
NOVEMBER 4
MARTIN LASS--"Home For Christmas" (Australian instrumentalist serves up a romantic and festive set; import arrives at Amazon 11/15)
VARIOUS--"Make Merry Christmas" (Japanese Punk collection)
NOVEMBER 8
ATTWATER--"Christmas EP" (5 song EP from new country group led by singer Erika Attwater; modern country with Bluegrass seasoning)
AUGUST BURNS RED--"God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen"/"Little Drummer Boy" (7" single from Christian metal band, limited to 1000 copies)
BOWLING FOR SOUP--"Merry Flippin' Christmas, Vols. 1 &2" (Download only version from American Pop Punk band; hard copy later)
CHRIS DAVIS--"This Christmas" (Solid Bop Jazz set from Vancouver Independent)
THE GIRLS AGAINST ABUSE--"Season Of Hope" (Charity effort from Southern California group raising money and awareness to fight abuse)
CAS HALEY--"Gifts To Give" (5 song EP from Texas based artist known for performing Reggae music seasoned with Texas Swing)
SARAH HART--"This Winter's Eve" (Contemporary Christian Pop, Folk and Rock artist)
THE JIMMIES--"Mama Said Nog You Out" (Barnes & Noble exclusive; hard copy of Kids Music EP distributed in 2010 as a free download)
BREIGHTON LEIGHTON--"Holiday Of Lights" (Smooth Jazz Christmas effort from late last year gets wider release in 2011)
MARYSE LETARTE--"Des Pas Dans La Niege" (American release of classic 2008 Canadian Indie Pop album; give a listen to the hit "Boom Boom")
LIBERA--"Winter Songs" (Japanese version of "The Christmas Album"; comes with bonus DVD)
THE NEW STANDARDS--"Seven Songs Of Comfort And Joy" (Fresh Trio Jazz arrangements and performances from Minneapolis group)
MARCUS ROBERTS TRIO--"Celebrating Christmas" (Second Christmas album for jazz pianist)
NANCY WENSTROM--"Come In To Christmas" (Indie Jazz/Traditional/Blues album featuring 7 originals from San Francisco artist; latest release here)
HAWKSLEY WORKMAN--"Full Moon Eleven" (2-CD set from eclectic Canadian includes his 2001 Xmas album, plus remakes of all, & 2 new songs)
VARIOUS--"Christmas Celebration" (Domestic release of August 11 UK beautiful music collection; works out cheaper to buy the import from Guild)
VARIOUS--"12 Bands Of Christmas, Volume 8" (charity effort from GA not-for-profit fighting pediatric cancer; check "Vol. 7" here)
NOVEMBER 11
DEANA MARTIN--"White Christmas" (Vinyl 12" version of September 20 release from Dean Martin's daughter)
MARY MARGARET MAY--"Upon A Winter's Night" (Very nice Classical Pop, or Crossover Classical if you prefer, from Christian artist)
OUR HEARTS HERO--"Love Is Breathing" (Good tidings from Indie Pop/Rock Christian band)
VARIOUS--"Let It Snow" (The annual Christmas cream and sugar from Starbucks coffee)
NOVEMBER 14
SHAWN BROCK--"6 String Christmas" (Smooth Jazz)
NOVEMBER 15
MARCUS ANDERSON--"Tender Loving Christmas" (Smooth Jazz)
PAUL ANKA--"Songs Of December" (first new holiday release from Anka in over 50 years)
BEANTOWN SWING ORCHESTRA--"A Beantown Christmas" (First Christmas set from Boston swing band featuring former Idol finalist John Stevens)
JOSH CATERER--"Heart Of Christmas" (solo project from Smoking Popes vocalist)
THE CELTS--"Christmas With The Celts" (Formerly known as the Blair Band; Celtic music meets rock n roll)
THE CELTS--"Christmas With The Celts" (DVD version of above)
SCHUYLER FISK--"Sounds of the Holiday" (Long awaited Folk/Pop Christmas EP from actress and singer; very nice; hard copy coming next week)
FOLK ANGEL--"Comfort & Joy" (Indie Alt Folk)
GLEE--"Glee The Music: The Christmas Album, Volume 2" (Cast of popular Fox TV show with their second Christmas set)
DAVID IAN--"Vintage Christmas" (Superchick guitarist turns Jazz pianist for this set; digital version could be available on 11/8)
JIGSAW SEEN--"Winterland" (Mostly original Christmas album from Indie rockers whose earlier Xmas track has become an Alt Rock standard)
JIGSAW SEEN--"Winterland" (Vinyl LP version of above)
JIGSAW SEEN--"Winterland" (CD/LP combo package available exclusively from Jigsaw Seen)
ELISABETH LOHNINGER BAND--"Christmas In July" (12 Christmas songs from around the world in 9 languages from New York based Jazz singer)
LEIGH NASH--"Hymns And Sacred Songs" (Technically not a Christmas release, but Leigh could sing the phone book and I'd buy it)
KERI NOBLE--"More Than Santa"
VICTORIA SHAW--"Fa La La" (Nashville country/pop singer songwriter)
JAMI SMITH--"Joyful Joyful" (Second Christmas album from Folk Pop Worship artist)
JOHN TESH--"Big Band Christmas" (first new studio album from Tesh in 3 years)
TRI-FI--"A Tri-Fi Christmas" (Trio Jazz from New York based group)
YESHIVA BOYS CHOIR--"Yeshiva Boys Choir Chanukah" (2010 release receiving wider release this year)
VARIOUS--"Holiday Love" (CD/DVD set of the annual Holiday Love gospel event, featuring Yolanda Adams, Kenny Lattimore, Marvin Sapp, and more)
VARIOUS--"Cameo*Parkway Holiday Hits" (first time on CD for 13 of these vinyl gems; from Real Gone Music)
VARIOUS--"Rock By The Sea Christmas, Volume 2" (Florida organization raising money to fight pediatric cancer, affiliated with 12 Bands of Christmas)
VARIOUS--"The Second Noel" (Second label comp from Canadian Rock imprint 604 Records)
VARIOUS--"This Warm December, Vol. 2" (Follow-up to Brushfire's 2008 Christmas release, featuring Jack Johnson, Zee Avi, more)
VARIOUS--"This Warm December, Vol. 2" (Vinyl LP version of above)
VARIOUS--"With Bells On" (Second label comp from Canadian Indie Rock label affiliate of 604 Records, Light Organ Records)
SOUNDTRACK--"A Very Harold And Kumar 3D Christmas" (hard copy soundtrack; digital released Nov. 1)
NOVEMBER 18
THE LOWER LIGHTS--"Come Let Us Adore Him" (Indie Christian Folk collective from Salt Lake City)
N'AWLINS GUMBO KINGS--"Holiday Gumbo" (New Orleans Jazz)
TONIC SOL-FA--"March Of The Kings" (Latest Christmas offering from midwest a cappella group)
VARIOUS--"So Fresh: Songs For Christmas 2011" (the annual collection from Australia)
NOVEMBER 20
LAUREN MAYER--"Latkes, Shmatkes!" (Hanukkah Humor)
NOVEMBER 21
DAVID BALL--"The Greatest Christmas" (Country singer with a classic Country Christmas album; hard copies coming soon)
EMMY THE GREAT AND TIM WHEELER--"This Is Christmas" (Because the Mayans say this is the last Christmas we'll ever see)
HYMNS FROM NINEVEH--"Endurance In Christmas Time" (13 song set from Danish devotional Folk Pop artist Jonas H. Petersen)
MICHEL LEGRAND & VARIOUS--"Noel Noel Noel" (Intriguing group of emerging artists and Iggy Pop, under the direction of Legrand)
LYLE LOVETT--"Songs For The Season" (3 song digital release from eclectic Alt Country performer, 2 with Kat Edmonson)
MANNHEIM STEAMROLLER--"Mannheim Ultimate Christmas Collection" (Amazon exclusive; 8 discs of Mannheim Steamroller Christmas music)
VARIOUS--"My Favorite Gifts" (Indie Rock from NC label)
VARIOUS--"Santa's Funk & Soul Christmas Party" (Hard copy due November 28, albeit an import)
NOVEMBER 22
ED AMES--"Christmas With"/"The Warmest Time Of The Year" (Ames' 1967 and 1970 Christmas albums; FIRST OFFICIAL RELEASE ON CD!!!)
KATE BUSH--"50 Words For Snow" (Import; not a Christmas album, but an album of all new songs featuring a snowy backdrop from eclectic artist)
KATE BUSH--"50 Words For Snow" (2-LP vinyl version of above; Import)
FEAR--"Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas"/"Another Christmas Beer" (7" single from new edition of the 70s/80s Punk Band)
SCHUYLER FISK--"Sounds of the Holiday" (Hard copy CD-EP of long awaited Folk/Pop Christmas set from actress and singer; mp3 released 11/15)
IL VOLO--"Special Christmas Edition" (Giving a whole new meaning to "Boy Bands", this trio specializes in Pop Opera; eat your heart out Justin Bieber)
KNIGHTS OF THE NEW CRUSADE--"Christmas (At Montsegur)"/"Three Magi of Damascus" (Norton single from obnoxious Christian Rock band)
LADY GAGA--"A Very Gaga Holiday" (Digital-only 4 song set culled from Thanksgiving special; only one Christmas track--"White Christmas")
JANEENE LAVELLE--"The Joy Of Christmas" (EP from emerging soulful Christian and Gospel artist)
LUIS & THE WILDFIRES--"Who Likes Christmas Anyway" (Norton single from East L.A. roots rockers)
THE QUALITIES (feat. SUN RA)--"It's Christmas Time"/"Happy New Year To You" (Norton vinyl re-issue of rare 1955 single)
DAVID ROSE--"The David Rose Christmas Album" (FIRST TIME ON CD!!! David Rose Christmas album from 1968)
SOJOURN--"A Child Is Born" (Eclectic Indie Rock set from the even more eclectic Christian collective who previously gave us "Advent Songs")
SUSQUEHANNA CHORALE--"A Susquehanna Christmas II" (Grammy nominated Pennsylvania chorale group)
PHIL VASSAR--"Noel"
THE YULE LOGS--"You Ruined Christmas" (3rd act from the hardest working band in snow business; British Invasion styled rock)
VARIOUS--"Lights, Volume 2: A Hanukkah Music Sampler" (Collection of pop, folk, rock, smooth jazz, rap and more from Craig Taubman's label)
VARIOUS--"N-Coded Music Presents Holiday Jazz" (Tracks from 1997's "Tis The Season" mixed with tracks from Kim Waters' 1994 Xmas set)
VARIOUS--"These Silent Nights" (Digital reissue of 2009 Indie Rock digital release from New York's Patriarch label)
NOVEMBER 23
BLAKE BOLERJACK--"The Christmas Light" (Traditional Christian Worship music)
WE THREE KEANES--"O Christmas, Where Art Thou?" (Superb set featuring the harmonies of John Keane and his daughters, Rachel & Paige)
NOVEMBER 25
PEE PEE DYNAMITE--"A Groovy Christmas and New Year"/"The Soul Of Christmas" (Vinyl reissue of rare Ghanaian funk 45)
J. TEX & THE VOLUNTEERS--"Santa Comes 'Round"/"What Did You See" (Danish Country/Pop artist; 7" arrives at Amazon December 13)
LEXTEE BABY--"Christmas With LTB" (Versatile California singer/rapper, check her out on MySpace; might be a digital-only release--not enuf info yet)
DANNY MITCHELL--"Savior On The Way" (Nashville based artist whose sound and style recalls Norah Jones and Michael Buble)
PROPER ANIMALS--"Ruin Christmas" (Mysterious Pop Punk band that turns up once a year and then disappears til the next. Santa, is that you?)
TRINE REIN--"Julegaven" (Norwegian release)
SIN CITY SINNERS--"A Sinners Christmas" (Vegas-based hair metal band; lots of guest appearances; portion of proceeds to Toys For Tots)
NOVEMBER 28
JOE MCELDERRY--"Classic Christmas" (2009 UK X-Factor winner in the Faryl Smith, Susan Boyle, Hayley Westenra "Classical Pop" mode)
PASADENA ROOF ORCHESTRA--"The Christmas Album" (Hot Dance Swing and nostalgic sway from purveyors of 20s, 30s and 40s sounds)
SMITH AND BURROWS--"Funny Looking Angels" (Tom Smith of the Editors and Andy Burrows from Razorlight with a unique and festive set)
THE SUMMER SET--"What Money Can't Buy" (3 song digital collection to benefit Toys For Tots from Arizona Pop Punk band)
VARIOUS--"For Folk's Sake, It's Christmas 2011" (2nd collection from Folk web site and collective features Caitlin Rose, Howard Carter & more)
VARIOUS--"Santa's Funk & Soul Christmas Party" (Collection of rare Xmas Soul from the 60s and 70s, lovingly compiled by Germany's Tramp label)
VARIOUS--"Santa's Funk & Soul Christmas Party" (Vinyl version of above, in gatefold album sleeve, limited to 500)
NOVEMBER 29
TROY ENGLE--"It's Christmas Time Again" (Authentic Bluegrass from the multi-talented Troy Engle)
KERI & BEAU--"Fill The Night" (Indie folk Christian album from Kickstarter project)
JOEY McINTYRE--"Come Home For Christmas" (Self-issued set from NKOTB singer; includes an appearance from Jordan Knight)
KAREN PECK & NEW RIVER--"Georgia Mountain Christmas" (Southern Gospel)
DEAS VAIL--"For Shepherds & Kings" (Four song digital EP from Indie Pop band)
WEATHERSTAR--"Christmas Makes The Heart Grow Fonder" (7 song digital EP from Indie Pop band)
VARIOUS--"Christmas Vibes" (Re-issue of Studio One Reggae set, first released on vinyl and later released on CD in 1993)
DECEMBER 1
MARTHA BASSETT--"Magnificat" (Mostly traditional carols and hymns from Alt Folk/Country Christian artist; only available direct from artist web store)
LYRIKA HOLMES--"Harp For The Holidays" (Soulful harpist and singer)
IRISH ROVERS--"Merry Merry Time Of Year"
DECEMBER 2
FOXTAILS BRIGADE--"Time Is Passed" (Anti-Folk Anti-Christmas set from Chamber Pop duo)
DECEMBER 5
DANIEL PARDO--"Joy To The Other World" (Latin Jazz flute player)
VARIOUS--"A Very Cherry Christmas 7" (7th Indie Pop and more collection from UK's Cherryade label)
DECEMBER 6
THE GRIP WEEDS--"Under The Influence Of Christmas" (Power Pop band featured on "Hi Fi Christmas Party 2" with a full holiday album)
ANDREW HELLER--"Christmas Wonder" (Re-issue of 2004 CD from latter day Goulet styled vocalist)
LE'ANDRIA JOHNSON--"Christmas Best" (Gospel singer; winner of Season 3 of BET's Sunday Best)
LITTLE RIVER BAND--"A Little River Band Christmas" (Essentially a reissue of 2007's "We Call It Christmas", but with 2 additional tracks)
LOS STRAITJACKETS--"Hark The Herald Angels Sing"/"Silver Bells" (Holiday 7" with a pair of songs not on either Los Straitjackets Christmas CD)
SHONEN KNIFE--"Sweet Christmas"/"We Wish You A Merry Christmas" (At least the third Xmas single from Japanese Pop Punk girl group)
DECEMBER 9
TIM ANGSTEN--"Joy To The World" (Fine digital EP in a positive and easy Folk Pop style)
DECEMBER 10
LIMA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA (with Shannon O'Neil)--"Christmas Memories"
DECEMBER 12
VARIOUS--"Barnardo's Alternative Christmas" (Alternative Rock, Folk & Pop--19 original songs in all--to benefit Barnardo's Children's Charities)
VARIOUS--"The Christmas Chronicles, Vol. 1" (Indie Rock collection from non-profit label, proceeds going to the UK Teen Cancer Trust)
DECEMBER 13
JAVIER COLON--"A Very Acoustic Christmas" (Winner of the first season of NBC's "The Voice" on a 5 song traditional outing)
DECEMBER 16
ELVIS PRESLEY--"The Wonderful World Of Christmas" (Expanded 2-CD re-issue of 1971 album featuring many alternate takes)
GRUFF RHYS--"The Atheist Xmas EP" (3 song 12" from Super Furry Animals frontman)
DECEMBER 19
AUSTRIAN DEATH MACHINE--"Jingle All The Way" (Ah-nold Metal parody 7" with 3 songs based on the film; digital single arrives 12/6)
VARIOUS - "Indaba Holiday Music 2011" (Digital 6 song EP of Independent artists of varying styles from the Indaba community)
DECEMBER 20
BOWLING FOR SOUP--"Merry Flippin' Christmas, Vols. 1 & 2" (If Americans want hard copy of this American band, they have to get it from the UK?)
DECEMBER 27
MICHEL LEGRAND & VARIOUS--"Noel, Noel, Noel" (Domestic release of Import due 11/21)
Limbo List (items that were scheduled and have disappeared from the schedule)
AUGUST BURNS RED--Title TBA (early PR material: "A Christmas record you are going to love! More details coming soon!")
VARIOUS--"Dream Christmas, Volume 2" (Label comp from Christian Pop Dream Records. Check "Volume 1" here. Officially cancelled)
COLBIE CAILLAT--"Christmas"
ANDRE RIEU--Title TBA (CD/DVD; looks like the label opted to release a waltz CD/DVD instead)
TBA
Hi-Fi Christmas Party, Volume 3
Judy Pancoast
Carole Champagne (Canadian Country artist)
Weaver Believer Survival Revival--"Round The Tree Again" (Bluegrass Gospel)
William Joseph (Classical crossover artist)
All Is Calm 2011 (ambient collection; Vol. 1 here)
Milkshake
Monica (probably December)
Kirk Sheppard--"Christmas By Candlelight"
Leona Lewis & Jessie J. (Christmas single)
Ty Herndon
Tenley Westbrook
2011 (Possible)
Little Big Town
Loretta Lynn
B.J. Thomas
Percy Sledge
Keith McKelley (November 2011)
Ozzy Osbourne--"Black Christmas"
Restless Heart
Eve Selis
A Fine Day For Sailing (British indie pop act planning a Christmas single)
Cadence
Rachel Holder
Gord Bamford (Canadian Country music star)
Cascada
AllStar Weekend
Dixie Dominus
The Baseballs (German "Voc N Roll" group, singing modern songs in 50s/60s style)
VocalSix (Swedish a cappella group)
Zach Huckabee Band (Contemporary Christian Pop/Rock with a Texas flavor)
Claymore Disco (Colorado Dance/Rock band)
Brad Jacobsen (New Age solo piano; nice stuff)
Possible in 2011, but 2012 more likely
Edwin McCain
Martina McBride
Crystal McKee (singer/songwriter in the Lisa Loeb vein and founder of the SoCal Female Acoustic Showcase)
2012
Pat Benatar
Jimmie Van Zant
Meat Loaf--"Hot Holidays"
The Oak Ridge Boys
Eddie Floyd
Donna Ulisse
Tanya Tucker
(possible in 2012)
Mariah Carey (expanded edition of "Merry Christmas II You")
John Legend
Kelly Clarkson
I created just such a list over at FaLaLaLaLa in 2010--a centralized resource, updated continuously, for the obsessive Christmas music hunters like myself. For 2011, this will be the spot to check. Check The List and check it twice to ensure you find your personal (naughty and nice) holiday favorites.
NEW / REISSUE / DIGITAL ONLY / DIGITAL REISSUE / VINYL / CD-DVD / DVD / EXCLUSIVE / IMPORT
APRIL 15
BLAKE AARON--"A Romantic Christmas" (reissue of 2006 Smooth Jazz album)
D-LUCCA--"Have Yourself A Fretless Little Christmas" (reissue of 2007 Smooth Jazz album)
MAY 17
THE OPIATE MASS--"From The Belly Of A Woman"
MAY 18
KEN GRIFFIN--"The Organ Plays At Christmas" (digital reissue of 1955 Columbia LP)
JUNE 7
MICHELE PILLAR (with Larry Carlton)--"I Hear Angels Calling" (reissue of 2006 CD from Christian singer and her jazz guitarist husband)
JUNE 28
ROY ROGERS & DALE EVANS--"Christmas Is Always" (cowboy couple's 1967 Capitol album, released on CD a decade ago)
JULY 19
MESHUGGA BEACH PARTY--"Hot Rod Hanukkah" (The Chosen Surfers return with special guest Duane Eddy)
JULY 20
THE LENNON SISTERS--"Christmas With The Lennon Sisters" (1961 album, originally issued on CD in 1989)
AUGUST 11
VARIOUS--"Christmas Celebration" (Import collection of vintage Beautiful Music including out-of-print cuts from Percy Faith, George Melachrino, etc.)
AUGUST 16
MANOR HOUSE STRING QUARTET--"It Came Upon The Midnight Clear" (follow up to 2010's "I Saw Three Ships")
AUGUST 23
VARIOUS--"Christmas From The Blue Note" (limited Jazz release November 2010, wide release this year)
AUGUST 30
HEARTBEAT BOYS--"Tell Everybody It's Christmas" (Maurice Starr's latest Boy Band creation)
SEPTEMBER 1
MEDWYN GOODALL--"Gifts of Comfort & Joy" (Digital reissue of 1989 New Age set)
DOUG MUNRO--"A Very Gypsy Christmas" (Jazz guitar virtuoso pays tribute to the holiday in the style of Django Reinhardt)
CHAD WOOLNER--"Hymns Made Of String"
SEPTEMBER 6
DALE BURKE--"When Is It Christmas Time?" (Second Christmas album from long time Jazz vocalist and trumpet player; available on CD-R)
PHIL DRISCOLL--"The Spirit Of Christmas" (Digital reissue of greatly under-appreciated album from 1986, released on CD in 2000)
RANDI FAY--"Noel" (Easy Listening vocals from Michigan native)
THE LETTERMEN--"It Feels Like Christmas" (Digital reissue of classic 1966 album, released on CD in 1992 and 2006)
ANDY MONROE--"Songs For A Winter's Night" (Winter songs from eclectic artist who has sort of a James Taylor meets Enya vibe)
MORMON TABERNACLE CHOIR featuring DAVID ARCHULETA--"Glad Christmas Tidings" (2010 Live performance)
MORMON TABERNACLE CHOIR featuring DAVID ARCHULETA--"Glad Christmas Tidings" (2010 Live performance on Blu-Ray & DVD)
SEPTEMBER 13
BILL ANDERSON--"No Place Like Home On Christmas" (reissue of out-of-print CD from 2002, in which Bill revisited his Xmas songs from 1969)
DEBBY BOONE--"Home For Christmas" (reissue of 1989 album, last re-issued in 2002)
OLIVER JONES, RANEE LEE, & the MONTREAL JUBILATION GOSPEL CHOIR--"A Celebration In Time" (hard copy of 2010 digital release)
LUCIANO PAVAROTTI--"A Passion For Pavarotti: The Christmas Album" (Budget priced package of some of the late tenor's Christmas recordings)
VIVA GIRLS--"A Viva Girls Christmas" (hard copy American release of 2010 EP, available digitally, from Chinese orchestral pop outfit)
VARIOUS--"Haynes Ultimate Guide To...Christmas" (Part of an Import series of compilations from Sony)
SEPTEMBER 17
INJUNUITY--"Nativity" (World/New Age instrumental music featuring the Native American Flute)
SEPTEMBER 20
SHIRLEY CAESAR--"Giving and Sharing: A Christmas Collection" (Gospel legend compiles some of her inspirational holiday best)
BILL HARRIS--"Holiday Improvisations" (reissue of out-of-print 1998 solo piano Jazz album, digitally released in 2007)
FIONA JOY HAWKINS--"Christmas Joy" (New Age pianist with strong followings in both Jazz and Classical music)
DEAN MARTIN--"My Kind Of Christmas (2011 edition)" (Original released in 2009. Difference here is a duet with Scarlett Johansson on track 9.)
DEANA MARTIN--"White Christmas" (Dean Martin's daughter carries on his legacy with a sweet and swingin' set; includes a duet with Andy Williams)
MARK O'CONNOR--"Appalachian Christmas" (violinist respected by devotees of bluegrass, country, jazz, classical, and other genres)
VARIOUS--"Soap Sessions: Merry Download Christmas" (Soap Opera stars sing Christmas songs)
SEPTEMBER 27
JEFFERY BIEGEL--"A Steinway Christmas Album" (Did you know the piano manufacturer had its own record label?)
STEVEN CURTIS CHAPMAN--"The Music Of Christmas"/"All I Really Want For Christmas" (two-fer featuring albums from 1995 and 2005)
HARRY CONNICK JR. TRIO--"Music From The Happy Elf" (latest incarnation of Harry's holiday brainchild features stripped down trio Jazz)
BABA ELEFANTE--"BASSic Christmas" (California Jazz artist's 2009 album of Christmas songs performed on bass accompanied by bass)
AMY GRANT--"A Christmas Album"/"A Christmas To Remember" (two-fer featuring albums from 1983 and 1999)
AMY GRANT--"Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas" (Budget priced collection spotted at Wal-Mart, but not listed as exclusive)
MIKE PACHELLI--"Jazzy Guitar Christmas" (Talented guitarist equally adept at quiet acoustic and raucous electric; released digitally in 2009)
RICKY SKAGGS--"Skaggs Family Christmas, Vol. 2" (CD/DVD; follow-up to 2005 CD "Scaggs Family Christmas, Vol. 1")
JOHN TWO-HAWKS--"Heaven And Nature Sing" (Folk music from Grammy and Emmy nominated Native American artist)
VARIOUS--"Cocktail Christmas" (From the Metropolitan Museum of Art; Interesting 2-disc set of Lounge & Traditional favorites, plus a surprise or two)
VARIOUS--"Have Yourself A Merry Little Country Christmas" (Kohl's exclusive; 100% of the net profit for this $5 disc benefits Kohl's Cares)
VARIOUS--"Now Christmas, Volume 4: The Carol Edition" (Bah Humbug! Same as 2010 "Now Christmas 4", but with lyric sheet included)
VARIOUS--"WOW Christmas 2011" (the Christian answer to the "Now" series rolls on; the 2-CD set includes the new track from Tenth Avenue North)
SEPTEMBER 28
MIKE AIKEN--"Almost Christmas" (3 covers and 3 originals make up this EP from Country singer with a touch of Jimmy Buffett in his soul)
DAMAGE CONTROL COMEDY--"Christmas Is Cancelled" [Explicit] (Second Christmas set from Florida comedy troupe)
KIM HILL--"Christmas Back To You" (Country Christian and Americana artist with her second Christmas album)
OCTOBER
VARIOUS--"Fleas Naughty Dog, Volume 1" (digital hard rock collection from last year makes its way to hard copy CD)
OCTOBER 4
JIM CARTER--"Christmas 2" (Homemade New Age recordings from former cast member of the national touring company of "Hair")
CHICAGO--"Chicago XXXIII: O Christmas Three"
NAT KING COLE--"Christmas With Nat King Cole" (Budget priced Import)
DAVID CROWDER BAND--"Oh For Joy" (Christian Alt Rock band)
BOBBY DARIN--"Christmas With Bobby Darin" (Budget priced Import)
STEVE GREEN--"The First Noel"/"Joy To The World" (two-fer featuring albums from 1987 and 1996)
PHILLIPS, CRAIG & DEAN/AVALON--"Repeat The Sounding Joy"/"Joy" (two-fer featuring albums from 1996 and 2000)
JERSEY BOYS--"Seasons Greetings" (cast of Broadway musical about Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons)
KUTLESS--"This Is Christmas" (6 track CD-EP from Portland Post-Grunge band)
TOBY MAC--"Christmas In Diverse City" (new Xmas CD from CCM Pop/Hip Hop artist, featuring 2010 single duet with Leigh Nash)
MANNHEIM STEAMROLLER--"Hometown" (Lowe's Home Improvement exclusive)
DEAN MARTIN--"Winter Dreams" (Budget priced Import pairing "A Winter Romance" with "Sleep Warm")
GLENN MILLER ORCHESTRA--"In The Swinging Christmas Mood" (Budget priced Import)
FRANK SINATRA--"A Jolly Christmas" (Last year's vinyl reissue of this 1957 classic was a far bigger deal, but in case you don't already own this...)
VEGGIETALES--"O Holy Night: Journey Of A Little Drummer Boy"
MATTHEW WEST--"The Heart Of Christmas" (first full-length holiday album from this Contemporary Christian artist)
VARIOUS--"Epitome Of Cool At Christmas" (Budget priced Import)
VARIOUS--"Gospel Christmas" (All-star package of Gospel Christmas music featuring James Cleveland, Shirley Caesar, Solomon Burke, etc.)
VARIOUS--"Ostrock X-Mas II" (German collection of German Christmas hits in German; check "Volume 1" from last year to get the gist)
VARIOUS--"Rockin' Around The Christmas Tree" (Christian Rock compilation featuring August Burns Red, Demon Hunter, The Almost, & more)
VARIOUS--"Smooth Jazz Christmas"/"A Fireside Christmas" (two-fer featuring albums from 2007 and 1994)
VARIOUS--"A Smooth Jazz Holiday" (reissue of 2008 Circuit City exclusive "Grooves Of The Season", previously reissued as "Smooth Soul Holiday")
VARIOUS--"Sweethearts & Stolen Christmas Kisses 2" (Budget priced Import)
VARIOUS--"The Majesty & Glory Of Christmas"/"The Beauty of Christmas" (two-fer featuring albums from 1990 and 1998)
VARIOUS--"This Is Christmas Too!" (Budget priced Import)
VARIOUS--"Tinsel & Turkey" (Budget priced Import)
OCTOBER 5
TOM TAYLOR--"Back Home For Christmas" (Christian singer/songwriter based in Seattle)
THREE BRIDGES--"Christmas Must Be Tonight" (2nd Christmas CD from Southern Gospel group--first with Shannon Smith, formerly of the Imperials)
OCTOBER 7
RONDA ADAMS--"Radiant Light" (Very pretty instrumental collection; definitely worth checking out)
KARLING--"Christmas With Karling" (Rockabilly/Americana from California sweetheart; hard copy expected in November)
OCTOBER 11
GERI ALLEN--"A CHILD IS BORN" (Jazz pianist with her first Christmas effort)
PAUL ANKA--"Songs For Christmas" (Budget Import collection of Anka's old stuff repackaged; new Christmas Anka music coming November 1)
TONY BENNETT--"The Classic Christmas Album" (A collection of Bennett's best holiday tracks through the years, 18 songs in all, at a budget price)
BLENDERS--"Christmas Light" (At least the 8th Christmas release--counting collections, DVDs and spoofs--from popular Midwest vocal group)
BLEST--"Feliz Navidad" (2nd Christmas set from Miami based Latin Christian Pop trio; I believe there are hard copies, but haven't seen them yet)
BOBBY DARIN--"Songs For Christmas" (Budget Import collection of Bobby Darin's holiday music repackaged)
CRAIG DUNCAN--"Irish Country Christmas" (traditional Celtic instrumentals in this followup to 2003's "Irish Christmas")
ELLA FITZGERALD--"Songs For Christmas" (Budget Import collection of Ella's holiday music repackaged)
GINUWINE--"A Ginuwine Christmas" (The R&B artist and BET and Soul Train Award winner has been prolific of late)
GINUWINE--"A Ginuwine Christmas" (Hard copy CD of this set is a Target exclusive; no link as yet--might be you'll have to hit the store)
H2--"Home For The Holidays" (Jazz combo led by Mike Herriott and Sean Harkness)
JOEY + RORY--"A Farmhouse Christmas" (husband and wife Country duo; guest appearance by Merle Haggard)
LORI MECHEM QUARTET--"Christmas Is Coming: A Jazz Tribute to A Charlie Brown Christmas" (Smooth Jazz from Green Hill)
MANNHEIM STEAMROLLER--"Christmas Symphony"
ELLIS MARSALIS--"A New Orleans Christmas Carol" (appears to be a reissue of out-of-print 2002 Christmas CD with 3 added tracks)
THE MIRACLES--"A Soulful Christmas" (latest re-issue of 2001 post-Smokey holiday collection)
PINK MARTINI--"Joy To The World, Part II" (2nd of 3 limited edition vinyl 10" feat. tracks from 2010 holiday CD; proceeds to charity)
PRO ARTE SINGERS--"Christmas With The Pro Arte Singers"
REVELS--"Sing Noel: A European Christmas Revels"
CAROLYN SOUTHWORTH--"Home For Christmas" (This one was a really nice surprise; if pressed I'd call it New Age; samples here)
THE STAR-SCAPE SINGERS--"The Song--The Heart Of Christmas" (Digital reissue of 1985 choral set features the late Chris Dedrick of Free Design)
SWING SISTERS--"Swingin' X-mas" (Digital reissue of 1997 set from Danish nostalgia act, not to be confused with the US nostalgia act or Sister Swing)
KATHY TROCCOLI--"Christmas Songs" (Contemporary Christian singer's first full-length holiday album since 1999's "Sentimental Christmas")
BENJAMIN UTECHT--"Christmas Hope" (Inspirational vocals from former Colts Super Bowl Champion Tight End)
VINEYARD U.K. WORSHIP--"Christmas From The Vineyard"
JOHN ZORN--"A Dreamers Christmas"
JOHN ZORN--"A Dreamers Christmas" (vinyl LP version)
JOHN ZORN--"The Christmas Song" (vocals by Mike Patton)/"Santa's Workshop" (7" vinyl from "A Dreamers Christmas")
VARIOUS--"A Christmas Together, Vol. 2" (West Coast CCM collection; digital through Amazon, etc., hard copy should be at Jadon Lavik's web store)
VARIOUS--"Home For Christmas: FM 100 2011" (annual CD benefitting The Road Home; this year feat. Mindy Gledhill, Hilary Weeks, Alex Boye, etc.)
VARIOUS--"It's Christmas Time" (Soulful Takes on Seasonal standards from Gospel/Smooth Jazz label affiliated with Ashro/Colony Brands apparel)
VARIOUS--"Putumayo Presents Celtic Christmas" (World music label focuses on the Emerald Isle--features Teresa Doyle, Dougie MacLean, etc.)
VARIOUS--"Top Latino Navidad, Volume 2"
VARIOUS--"A Very Country Christmas" (Target exclusive featuring new tracks from Kellie Pickler, Jake Owen, Brad Paisley and more)
OCTOBER 13
SHANA SAINT--"Unexpected" (Young artist on a DIY label deserves to be heard even though the backing tracks are often busy & beneath her abilities)
OCTOBER 15
KEITH & KRISTYN GETTY--"Joy - An Irish Christmas" (Traditional and original hymns with an Irish lilt from popular CCM couple; nice stuff)
DANA JORGENSEN--"Christmas And Hymns" (EP from Indie Christian Pop/Rock artist)
VARIOUS--"Christmas In The Mountains, Vol. 5" (Artists from NC High Country recording to benefit Hunger & Health Coalition, review of Vol. IV here)
OCTOBER 18
MANDY BARNETT--"Winter Wonderland" (2010 Cracker Barrel Exclusive gets wide release; read our review here)
The BROADWAY BOYS--"Hark!" (Broadway stars meld pop and funk with musical theatre)
FFH--"One Silent Night" (Contemporary Christian group)
MINDY GLEDHILL--"Winter Moon"
DAVE KOZ--"Ultimate Christmas" (A collection of Dave's best Christmas tracks over the years)
HALIE LOREN & MATT TREDER--"Many Times Many Ways" (Re-issue of fine 2008 set from Jazz chanteuse)
CHRISTINE MILLER--"All Is Bright" (A mix of Smooth Jazz, Pop, New Age, Christian, R&B, etc.; doesn't work for me, but then who am I?)
MOAT JUMPER--"Christmas At The Renaissance Fair" (Renaissance Fair super-group performing festive holiday favorites Medieval style)
DARRELL NORTH--"Have A Good Christmas" (Former FBI agent with an album of acoustic guitar instrumentals; features two originals)
THE PATRICK BROTHERS--"Christmas With The Patrick Brothers" (Original songs in an old time country style from Illinois artist; mp3 via Amazon)
PETER, PAUL & MARY--"The Holiday Concert" (Legendary late 80s PBS special, long out-of-print on VHS, comes to DVD for the first time)
HEATHER RAMSEY--"Peace Like A River" (Very nice and varied Christmas Jazz album from Indianapolis vocalist)
THE WIGGLES--"It's Always Christmas With You" (The latest children's set from the Australian troupe; Joey Fatone of *NSync sings "O Holy Night")
THE WIGGLES--"It's Always Christmas With You" (CD version of above)
VARIOUS--"Celtic Angels At Christmas" (Six of the world's top female Celtic performers display their talents in a Christmas program)
VARIOUS--"Christmas Hymns & Carols" (a collection of hymns and carols featuring Leigh Nash, Kelly Minter, Aaron Keyes and more)
OCTOBER 21
JIM HITCHCOCK--"Coast Highway Christmas" (California Christian Rock charity album; the Byrds meet the Eagles)
STRATOCRUISER--"Holiday Music" (CD-R collection of NC Power Pop band's annual Christmas singles)
OCTOBER 25
THE BELLRAYS--"Merry Christmas From The BellRays" (re-issue of 2005 5-song EP from California Blues Punk/Soulful Rock band)
BILLY & THE ESSENTIALS--"Christmas Album" (Newly recorded songs from classic Doo Wop group and former Cameo/Parkway artist)
BOWLING FOR SOUP--"Merry Flippin' Christmas, Vol. 1" (same as last year's download only set, but with one additional track)
DEBORAH EDWARDS BRADLEY--"Tis The Season" (DC area Contemporary Gospel singer)
MICHAEL BUBLE--"Christmas" (Exclusive version with 3 additional tracks only available through Michael Buble's web site)
MICHAEL BUBLE--"Christmas"
SHAUNA BURNS--"A Winter Gathering" (Celtic flavored set from Indie artist who may remind you of Tori Amos)
CHANTICLEER--"Our Favorite Carols"
VIC DANA--"Little Alter Boy" (Digital reissue of underrated 1966 album)
TOMMY EMMANUEL--"All I Want For Christmas"
SUGAR RAY FORD & THE HOT SHOTS--Christmas EP (digital reissue of 1989 UK neo-swing vinyl)
FIONA JOY HAWKINS--"Christmas Joy" (Super Audio CD of 9/20 release; SACDs offer higher fidelity but SACD player is required)
JACK & DALE--"Christmas Is Everywhere" (Mixed bag all original set from Ohio rock vets; recommended track: "Get The Reindeer Runnin'")
JILLAINE--"Jazzy Christmas To You!" (Jazz and Blues artist from Utah turns in a solid and noteworthy self-issued holiday set)
KEB MO--"The Spirit Of The Holiday" (Digital collection of Roots artist's 4 holiday tracks, which haven't always been easy to find in the past)
ANDRE KOSTELANETZ--"Wonderland Of Christmas" (CD-R from ArkivMusic of 1963 classic NEVER BEFORE ON CD!!!)
ANDRE KOSTELANETZ--"Wonderland Of Christmas" (Digital version of above will actually be available 10/21, but putting it here made more sense)
THE JOHNNY MANN SINGERS--"We Wish You A Merry Christmas" (Digital reissue of 1967 album)
ERIN McKEOWN--"F#ck That! Erin McKeown's Anti-Holiday Album" (Indie Folk Pop artist's irreverent take on the season)
MARTY MERCHANT--"Christmas Country Style" (FIRST TIME ON CD, so far as I can tell, of 1982 LP that should appeal mostly to kids)
BUCK OWENS & SUSAN RAYE--"Merry Christmas From Buck & Susan" (1971 album's FIRST TIME ON CD!!!)
VANESSA PETERS--"The Christmas We Hoped For" (Indie folk/rock)
CLIFF RICHARD--"Together With Cliff Richard At Christmas" (Reissue of 1991 holiday compilation)
JOHN RUTTER--"The Colors Of Christmas"
SHE & HIM--"Very She & Him Christmas"
SHE & HIM--"Very She & Him Christmas" (vinyl LP version)
RED SIMPSON--"Truckers' Christmas" (Digital Reissue of 1973 Country album)
SLUGS & BUGS--"Sluggs & Bugs Christmas" (Connecting Christianity and Childrens music)
SUE TICE & FAMILY--"The Angels Danced" (Renowned Bluegrass fiddler with a collection of folk instrumentals)
SCOTT WEILAND--"Most Wonderful Time Of The Year" (Stone Temple Pilots frontman turns Christmas crooner)
MATT WERTZ--"Snow Globe"
VARIOUS--"The Best Of Christmas" (Digital reissue of classic Capitol collection; vinyl version released in 1968, CD in 1991)
VARIOUS--"Christmas Along The Crooked Road" (Appalachian bluegrass and old timey from Virginia and NC greats)
VARIOUS--"Christmas Kisses" (Digital reissue of classic Capitol collection from 1990; cooler on CD, but cool in any case)
VARIOUS--"The Country Christmas Collection" (Canadian release from Open Road/Big Machine; featuring Jewel, Steel Magnolia, and more)
VARIOUS--"The Country Christmas Collection" (US Exclusive of above through Colonial Candle; comes as part of a holiday gift set)
VARIOUS--"Happy Holidays" (Digital reissue of classic Capitol collection from 1993; cooler on CD, but cool in any case)
VARIOUS--"Let It Snow!" (Digital reissue of classic Capitol collection from 1992; cooler on CD, but cool in any case)
VARIOUS--"Merry Christmas Baby: Romance & Reindeer" (Digital reissue of classic Capitol collection from 1991; cooler on CD, but cool in any case)
VARIOUS--"Nativity Set" (Latest twist on the Yule Log--holiday music plays while you watch a Nativity set. Seriously?)
VARIOUS--"Yule Love Trop Rock" (Trop Rock Xmas tunes collection to benefit Melanoma Research Foundation; from BeachFront radio)
"UKULELE CHRISTMAS" (Finally able to report that these are fairly generic no-name instrumentals featuring the uke; nothing special, but not bad)
OCTOBER 29
JONATHAN JONES--"Christmas In Our Shorts" (5 song EP from the vocalist and keyboard player for Indie's We Shot The Moon)
OCTOBER 31
PER NIELSEN--"Christmas Joy" (Easy Listening trumpet from Denmark)
VARIOUS--"NOW Christmas 2011" (9th edition of Danish NOW-ness)
NOVEMBER 1
BUTCH BARBELLA'S STREETS OF THE BRONX BAND--"Bronx Christmas Party" (Street corner harmonies from former Earls & Duprees singer)
JUSTIN BIEBER--"Under The Mistletoe"
JUSTIN BIEBER--"Under The Mistletoe [Deluxe Edition]" (CD/DVD combo pack of above)
BLACK LABEL SOCIETY--"Glorious Christmas Songs To Make Your Black Label Heart Feel Good" (3 song digital EP from Zakk Wylde & Co.)
JIM BRICKMAN--"All Is Calm" (Target exclusive, also available through Brickman's on line web store)
CLARENCE CLEMONS--"There's Still Christmas"/"The Christmas Song" (Recorded in 1981; hard copy expected around Thanksgiving)
LORELYN DOSSET & VARIOUS--"The Gathering" (NC Appalachian music)
ECLIPSE--"It's Christmastime" (new Christmas CD from LDS a cappella group who released "Three Kings" in 2003)
JACKIE EVANCHO--"Heavenly Christmas" (Wal-Mart exclusive)
JIMMY "DUCK" HOLMES--"Christmas Alone"/"Merry Christmas Baby" (Red vinyl Delta Blues single from the last of the Bentonia Bluesmen)
KARLING--"Christmas With Karling" (Hard copy release of 10/7 Rockabilly/Americana set from Karling Abbeygate)
CAROLE KING--"A Holiday Carole"
CAROLE KING--"A Holiday Carole" (Vinyl LP version of above)
CAROLE KING--"A Holiday Carole" [Deluxe Package]" (Includes Christmas ornament and card, plus 12x12 autographed lithograph limited to 300)
CAROLE KING--"A Holiday Carole" (Target exclusive version features 3 bonus tracks)
MARGOT KRIMMEL & BETH LEACHMAN-GADAW--"Icy December" (Indie Celtic from Colorado)
JADON LAVIK--"Christmas" (wide release of 2010 West Coast CCM album previously only available digitally or, in hard copy, direct from artist)
CHAD LAWSON--"Solo Piano Christmas" (What it says)
LIBERA--"The Christmas Album"
LIBERA--"The Christmas Album [Deluxe Edition]" (contains song cards and Christmas ornament)
JONNY LIPFORD--"Cedar And Snow" (19 year old player of New Age, Smooth Jazz, and Native American music on Native American flute)
RICHARD MARX--"The Christmas EP"
HAWK NELSON--"Christmas" (Christian Pop/Punk Band)
PAUL PARNELL--"Pretend It's Christmas" (Indiana singer/songwriter with an all original holiday set)
KYLE PEDERSON--"12.25" (Solo piano New Age in the spirit of Windham Hill)
NINA REPETA--"Nina Repeta's Christmas" (Acoustic and somewhat jazzy set from former "Dawson's Creek" star)
JOHNSON ROBERTS, LEE ANN ROBERTS & LEE HOLLAND--"Good People All, This Christmas Time" (Christian Folk Music)
JULIE ROBERTS--"Who Needs Mistletoe" (6 song EP from Jazz-tinged Country singer; hard copy CD-EP available from the artist)
THE ROCHES--"We Three Kings" (CD-R reissue of expanded version of the brilliant 1990 folk harmony album from Maggie, Terre & Suzzy Roche)
MARK SMEBY--"Christmas" ("Inspirational Pop" from Nashville artist)
SLIM MAN--"All I Want For Christmas" (reissue of 2000 release; Jazz Pop Christmas vocals like they used to make em)
SLIM MAN--"Christmas Eve" (reissue of 2008 release; more acoustic & intimate than 2000 set; features duet with Tony Bennett's daughter Antonia)
SMALLTOWN POETS--"Christmas" (Highly regarded Christian Alt Rock outfit; preview tracks, including last year's digital Xmas single, on Bandcamp)
MEAGHAN SMITH--"It Snowed" (Juno Award winning Indie Pop singer)
CHRIS STANDRING & KATHRIN SHORR--"Send Me Some Snow"
STAN TRACEY QUARTET--"A Child's Christmas (Jazz Suite)" (Jazz suite inspired by Dylan Thomas' "A Child's Christmas In Wales")
KELLI TROTTIER--"Memories of Christmas"
THE VARA-TONES--"Have Yourself A Vara Merry Christmas" (High Energy 60s style surf rock music in the vein of Dick Dale, etc.)
VARIOUS--"The Broken Christmas" (Long out of print 1988 classic from trailblazing Contemporary Christian label; diverse yet cohesive)
VARIOUS--"Carols For A Cure, Volume 13" (Broadway stars sing Xmas songs to benefit BC/EFA; this year's includes Daniel Radcliffe aka Harry Potter)
VARIOUS--"Garage Band Christmas, Volume 3" (more fun holiday tunes, garage rock style, from Collectables)
VARIOUS--"Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas" (Jazz comp from Canada's Justin Time Records features Hank Jones, Diana Krall, and more)
VARIOUS--"Indieciembre" (Digital compilation of some of the hottest Indie bands from Latin America)
VARIOUS--"Sing Off: Songs Of The Season" (Christmas album from NBC reality show "Sing Off" competition)
ORIGINAL CAST--"Elf: The Broadway Musical"
SOUNDTRACK--"A Very Harold & Kumar 3D Christmas" (Film opens Nov. 4; hard copy soundtrack due Nov. 15)
NOVEMBER 4
MARTIN LASS--"Home For Christmas" (Australian instrumentalist serves up a romantic and festive set; import arrives at Amazon 11/15)
VARIOUS--"Make Merry Christmas" (Japanese Punk collection)
NOVEMBER 8
ATTWATER--"Christmas EP" (5 song EP from new country group led by singer Erika Attwater; modern country with Bluegrass seasoning)
AUGUST BURNS RED--"God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen"/"Little Drummer Boy" (7" single from Christian metal band, limited to 1000 copies)
BOWLING FOR SOUP--"Merry Flippin' Christmas, Vols. 1 &2" (Download only version from American Pop Punk band; hard copy later)
CHRIS DAVIS--"This Christmas" (Solid Bop Jazz set from Vancouver Independent)
THE GIRLS AGAINST ABUSE--"Season Of Hope" (Charity effort from Southern California group raising money and awareness to fight abuse)
CAS HALEY--"Gifts To Give" (5 song EP from Texas based artist known for performing Reggae music seasoned with Texas Swing)
SARAH HART--"This Winter's Eve" (Contemporary Christian Pop, Folk and Rock artist)
THE JIMMIES--"Mama Said Nog You Out" (Barnes & Noble exclusive; hard copy of Kids Music EP distributed in 2010 as a free download)
BREIGHTON LEIGHTON--"Holiday Of Lights" (Smooth Jazz Christmas effort from late last year gets wider release in 2011)
MARYSE LETARTE--"Des Pas Dans La Niege" (American release of classic 2008 Canadian Indie Pop album; give a listen to the hit "Boom Boom")
LIBERA--"Winter Songs" (Japanese version of "The Christmas Album"; comes with bonus DVD)
THE NEW STANDARDS--"Seven Songs Of Comfort And Joy" (Fresh Trio Jazz arrangements and performances from Minneapolis group)
MARCUS ROBERTS TRIO--"Celebrating Christmas" (Second Christmas album for jazz pianist)
NANCY WENSTROM--"Come In To Christmas" (Indie Jazz/Traditional/Blues album featuring 7 originals from San Francisco artist; latest release here)
HAWKSLEY WORKMAN--"Full Moon Eleven" (2-CD set from eclectic Canadian includes his 2001 Xmas album, plus remakes of all, & 2 new songs)
VARIOUS--"Christmas Celebration" (Domestic release of August 11 UK beautiful music collection; works out cheaper to buy the import from Guild)
VARIOUS--"12 Bands Of Christmas, Volume 8" (charity effort from GA not-for-profit fighting pediatric cancer; check "Vol. 7" here)
NOVEMBER 11
DEANA MARTIN--"White Christmas" (Vinyl 12" version of September 20 release from Dean Martin's daughter)
MARY MARGARET MAY--"Upon A Winter's Night" (Very nice Classical Pop, or Crossover Classical if you prefer, from Christian artist)
OUR HEARTS HERO--"Love Is Breathing" (Good tidings from Indie Pop/Rock Christian band)
VARIOUS--"Let It Snow" (The annual Christmas cream and sugar from Starbucks coffee)
NOVEMBER 14
SHAWN BROCK--"6 String Christmas" (Smooth Jazz)
NOVEMBER 15
MARCUS ANDERSON--"Tender Loving Christmas" (Smooth Jazz)
PAUL ANKA--"Songs Of December" (first new holiday release from Anka in over 50 years)
BEANTOWN SWING ORCHESTRA--"A Beantown Christmas" (First Christmas set from Boston swing band featuring former Idol finalist John Stevens)
JOSH CATERER--"Heart Of Christmas" (solo project from Smoking Popes vocalist)
THE CELTS--"Christmas With The Celts" (Formerly known as the Blair Band; Celtic music meets rock n roll)
THE CELTS--"Christmas With The Celts" (DVD version of above)
SCHUYLER FISK--"Sounds of the Holiday" (Long awaited Folk/Pop Christmas EP from actress and singer; very nice; hard copy coming next week)
FOLK ANGEL--"Comfort & Joy" (Indie Alt Folk)
GLEE--"Glee The Music: The Christmas Album, Volume 2" (Cast of popular Fox TV show with their second Christmas set)
DAVID IAN--"Vintage Christmas" (Superchick guitarist turns Jazz pianist for this set; digital version could be available on 11/8)
JIGSAW SEEN--"Winterland" (Mostly original Christmas album from Indie rockers whose earlier Xmas track has become an Alt Rock standard)
JIGSAW SEEN--"Winterland" (Vinyl LP version of above)
JIGSAW SEEN--"Winterland" (CD/LP combo package available exclusively from Jigsaw Seen)
ELISABETH LOHNINGER BAND--"Christmas In July" (12 Christmas songs from around the world in 9 languages from New York based Jazz singer)
LEIGH NASH--"Hymns And Sacred Songs" (Technically not a Christmas release, but Leigh could sing the phone book and I'd buy it)
KERI NOBLE--"More Than Santa"
VICTORIA SHAW--"Fa La La" (Nashville country/pop singer songwriter)
JAMI SMITH--"Joyful Joyful" (Second Christmas album from Folk Pop Worship artist)
JOHN TESH--"Big Band Christmas" (first new studio album from Tesh in 3 years)
TRI-FI--"A Tri-Fi Christmas" (Trio Jazz from New York based group)
YESHIVA BOYS CHOIR--"Yeshiva Boys Choir Chanukah" (2010 release receiving wider release this year)
VARIOUS--"Holiday Love" (CD/DVD set of the annual Holiday Love gospel event, featuring Yolanda Adams, Kenny Lattimore, Marvin Sapp, and more)
VARIOUS--"Cameo*Parkway Holiday Hits" (first time on CD for 13 of these vinyl gems; from Real Gone Music)
VARIOUS--"Rock By The Sea Christmas, Volume 2" (Florida organization raising money to fight pediatric cancer, affiliated with 12 Bands of Christmas)
VARIOUS--"The Second Noel" (Second label comp from Canadian Rock imprint 604 Records)
VARIOUS--"This Warm December, Vol. 2" (Follow-up to Brushfire's 2008 Christmas release, featuring Jack Johnson, Zee Avi, more)
VARIOUS--"This Warm December, Vol. 2" (Vinyl LP version of above)
VARIOUS--"With Bells On" (Second label comp from Canadian Indie Rock label affiliate of 604 Records, Light Organ Records)
SOUNDTRACK--"A Very Harold And Kumar 3D Christmas" (hard copy soundtrack; digital released Nov. 1)
NOVEMBER 18
THE LOWER LIGHTS--"Come Let Us Adore Him" (Indie Christian Folk collective from Salt Lake City)
N'AWLINS GUMBO KINGS--"Holiday Gumbo" (New Orleans Jazz)
TONIC SOL-FA--"March Of The Kings" (Latest Christmas offering from midwest a cappella group)
VARIOUS--"So Fresh: Songs For Christmas 2011" (the annual collection from Australia)
NOVEMBER 20
LAUREN MAYER--"Latkes, Shmatkes!" (Hanukkah Humor)
NOVEMBER 21
DAVID BALL--"The Greatest Christmas" (Country singer with a classic Country Christmas album; hard copies coming soon)
EMMY THE GREAT AND TIM WHEELER--"This Is Christmas" (Because the Mayans say this is the last Christmas we'll ever see)
HYMNS FROM NINEVEH--"Endurance In Christmas Time" (13 song set from Danish devotional Folk Pop artist Jonas H. Petersen)
MICHEL LEGRAND & VARIOUS--"Noel Noel Noel" (Intriguing group of emerging artists and Iggy Pop, under the direction of Legrand)
LYLE LOVETT--"Songs For The Season" (3 song digital release from eclectic Alt Country performer, 2 with Kat Edmonson)
MANNHEIM STEAMROLLER--"Mannheim Ultimate Christmas Collection" (Amazon exclusive; 8 discs of Mannheim Steamroller Christmas music)
VARIOUS--"My Favorite Gifts" (Indie Rock from NC label)
VARIOUS--"Santa's Funk & Soul Christmas Party" (Hard copy due November 28, albeit an import)
NOVEMBER 22
ED AMES--"Christmas With"/"The Warmest Time Of The Year" (Ames' 1967 and 1970 Christmas albums; FIRST OFFICIAL RELEASE ON CD!!!)
KATE BUSH--"50 Words For Snow" (Import; not a Christmas album, but an album of all new songs featuring a snowy backdrop from eclectic artist)
KATE BUSH--"50 Words For Snow" (2-LP vinyl version of above; Import)
FEAR--"Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas"/"Another Christmas Beer" (7" single from new edition of the 70s/80s Punk Band)
SCHUYLER FISK--"Sounds of the Holiday" (Hard copy CD-EP of long awaited Folk/Pop Christmas set from actress and singer; mp3 released 11/15)
IL VOLO--"Special Christmas Edition" (Giving a whole new meaning to "Boy Bands", this trio specializes in Pop Opera; eat your heart out Justin Bieber)
KNIGHTS OF THE NEW CRUSADE--"Christmas (At Montsegur)"/"Three Magi of Damascus" (Norton single from obnoxious Christian Rock band)
LADY GAGA--"A Very Gaga Holiday" (Digital-only 4 song set culled from Thanksgiving special; only one Christmas track--"White Christmas")
JANEENE LAVELLE--"The Joy Of Christmas" (EP from emerging soulful Christian and Gospel artist)
LUIS & THE WILDFIRES--"Who Likes Christmas Anyway" (Norton single from East L.A. roots rockers)
THE QUALITIES (feat. SUN RA)--"It's Christmas Time"/"Happy New Year To You" (Norton vinyl re-issue of rare 1955 single)
DAVID ROSE--"The David Rose Christmas Album" (FIRST TIME ON CD!!! David Rose Christmas album from 1968)
SOJOURN--"A Child Is Born" (Eclectic Indie Rock set from the even more eclectic Christian collective who previously gave us "Advent Songs")
SUSQUEHANNA CHORALE--"A Susquehanna Christmas II" (Grammy nominated Pennsylvania chorale group)
PHIL VASSAR--"Noel"
THE YULE LOGS--"You Ruined Christmas" (3rd act from the hardest working band in snow business; British Invasion styled rock)
VARIOUS--"Lights, Volume 2: A Hanukkah Music Sampler" (Collection of pop, folk, rock, smooth jazz, rap and more from Craig Taubman's label)
VARIOUS--"N-Coded Music Presents Holiday Jazz" (Tracks from 1997's "Tis The Season" mixed with tracks from Kim Waters' 1994 Xmas set)
VARIOUS--"These Silent Nights" (Digital reissue of 2009 Indie Rock digital release from New York's Patriarch label)
NOVEMBER 23
BLAKE BOLERJACK--"The Christmas Light" (Traditional Christian Worship music)
WE THREE KEANES--"O Christmas, Where Art Thou?" (Superb set featuring the harmonies of John Keane and his daughters, Rachel & Paige)
NOVEMBER 25
PEE PEE DYNAMITE--"A Groovy Christmas and New Year"/"The Soul Of Christmas" (Vinyl reissue of rare Ghanaian funk 45)
J. TEX & THE VOLUNTEERS--"Santa Comes 'Round"/"What Did You See" (Danish Country/Pop artist; 7" arrives at Amazon December 13)
LEXTEE BABY--"Christmas With LTB" (Versatile California singer/rapper, check her out on MySpace; might be a digital-only release--not enuf info yet)
DANNY MITCHELL--"Savior On The Way" (Nashville based artist whose sound and style recalls Norah Jones and Michael Buble)
PROPER ANIMALS--"Ruin Christmas" (Mysterious Pop Punk band that turns up once a year and then disappears til the next. Santa, is that you?)
TRINE REIN--"Julegaven" (Norwegian release)
SIN CITY SINNERS--"A Sinners Christmas" (Vegas-based hair metal band; lots of guest appearances; portion of proceeds to Toys For Tots)
NOVEMBER 28
JOE MCELDERRY--"Classic Christmas" (2009 UK X-Factor winner in the Faryl Smith, Susan Boyle, Hayley Westenra "Classical Pop" mode)
PASADENA ROOF ORCHESTRA--"The Christmas Album" (Hot Dance Swing and nostalgic sway from purveyors of 20s, 30s and 40s sounds)
SMITH AND BURROWS--"Funny Looking Angels" (Tom Smith of the Editors and Andy Burrows from Razorlight with a unique and festive set)
THE SUMMER SET--"What Money Can't Buy" (3 song digital collection to benefit Toys For Tots from Arizona Pop Punk band)
VARIOUS--"For Folk's Sake, It's Christmas 2011" (2nd collection from Folk web site and collective features Caitlin Rose, Howard Carter & more)
VARIOUS--"Santa's Funk & Soul Christmas Party" (Collection of rare Xmas Soul from the 60s and 70s, lovingly compiled by Germany's Tramp label)
VARIOUS--"Santa's Funk & Soul Christmas Party" (Vinyl version of above, in gatefold album sleeve, limited to 500)
NOVEMBER 29
TROY ENGLE--"It's Christmas Time Again" (Authentic Bluegrass from the multi-talented Troy Engle)
KERI & BEAU--"Fill The Night" (Indie folk Christian album from Kickstarter project)
JOEY McINTYRE--"Come Home For Christmas" (Self-issued set from NKOTB singer; includes an appearance from Jordan Knight)
KAREN PECK & NEW RIVER--"Georgia Mountain Christmas" (Southern Gospel)
DEAS VAIL--"For Shepherds & Kings" (Four song digital EP from Indie Pop band)
WEATHERSTAR--"Christmas Makes The Heart Grow Fonder" (7 song digital EP from Indie Pop band)
VARIOUS--"Christmas Vibes" (Re-issue of Studio One Reggae set, first released on vinyl and later released on CD in 1993)
DECEMBER 1
MARTHA BASSETT--"Magnificat" (Mostly traditional carols and hymns from Alt Folk/Country Christian artist; only available direct from artist web store)
LYRIKA HOLMES--"Harp For The Holidays" (Soulful harpist and singer)
IRISH ROVERS--"Merry Merry Time Of Year"
DECEMBER 2
FOXTAILS BRIGADE--"Time Is Passed" (Anti-Folk Anti-Christmas set from Chamber Pop duo)
DECEMBER 5
DANIEL PARDO--"Joy To The Other World" (Latin Jazz flute player)
VARIOUS--"A Very Cherry Christmas 7" (7th Indie Pop and more collection from UK's Cherryade label)
DECEMBER 6
THE GRIP WEEDS--"Under The Influence Of Christmas" (Power Pop band featured on "Hi Fi Christmas Party 2" with a full holiday album)
ANDREW HELLER--"Christmas Wonder" (Re-issue of 2004 CD from latter day Goulet styled vocalist)
LE'ANDRIA JOHNSON--"Christmas Best" (Gospel singer; winner of Season 3 of BET's Sunday Best)
LITTLE RIVER BAND--"A Little River Band Christmas" (Essentially a reissue of 2007's "We Call It Christmas", but with 2 additional tracks)
LOS STRAITJACKETS--"Hark The Herald Angels Sing"/"Silver Bells" (Holiday 7" with a pair of songs not on either Los Straitjackets Christmas CD)
SHONEN KNIFE--"Sweet Christmas"/"We Wish You A Merry Christmas" (At least the third Xmas single from Japanese Pop Punk girl group)
DECEMBER 9
TIM ANGSTEN--"Joy To The World" (Fine digital EP in a positive and easy Folk Pop style)
DECEMBER 10
LIMA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA (with Shannon O'Neil)--"Christmas Memories"
DECEMBER 12
VARIOUS--"Barnardo's Alternative Christmas" (Alternative Rock, Folk & Pop--19 original songs in all--to benefit Barnardo's Children's Charities)
VARIOUS--"The Christmas Chronicles, Vol. 1" (Indie Rock collection from non-profit label, proceeds going to the UK Teen Cancer Trust)
DECEMBER 13
JAVIER COLON--"A Very Acoustic Christmas" (Winner of the first season of NBC's "The Voice" on a 5 song traditional outing)
DECEMBER 16
ELVIS PRESLEY--"The Wonderful World Of Christmas" (Expanded 2-CD re-issue of 1971 album featuring many alternate takes)
GRUFF RHYS--"The Atheist Xmas EP" (3 song 12" from Super Furry Animals frontman)
DECEMBER 19
AUSTRIAN DEATH MACHINE--"Jingle All The Way" (Ah-nold Metal parody 7" with 3 songs based on the film; digital single arrives 12/6)
VARIOUS - "Indaba Holiday Music 2011" (Digital 6 song EP of Independent artists of varying styles from the Indaba community)
DECEMBER 20
BOWLING FOR SOUP--"Merry Flippin' Christmas, Vols. 1 & 2" (If Americans want hard copy of this American band, they have to get it from the UK?)
DECEMBER 27
MICHEL LEGRAND & VARIOUS--"Noel, Noel, Noel" (Domestic release of Import due 11/21)
Limbo List (items that were scheduled and have disappeared from the schedule)
AUGUST BURNS RED--Title TBA (early PR material: "A Christmas record you are going to love! More details coming soon!")
VARIOUS--"Dream Christmas, Volume 2" (Label comp from Christian Pop Dream Records. Check "Volume 1" here. Officially cancelled)
COLBIE CAILLAT--"Christmas"
ANDRE RIEU--Title TBA (CD/DVD; looks like the label opted to release a waltz CD/DVD instead)
TBA
Hi-Fi Christmas Party, Volume 3
Judy Pancoast
Carole Champagne (Canadian Country artist)
Weaver Believer Survival Revival--"Round The Tree Again" (Bluegrass Gospel)
William Joseph (Classical crossover artist)
All Is Calm 2011 (ambient collection; Vol. 1 here)
Milkshake
Monica (probably December)
Kirk Sheppard--"Christmas By Candlelight"
Leona Lewis & Jessie J. (Christmas single)
Ty Herndon
Tenley Westbrook
2011 (Possible)
Little Big Town
Loretta Lynn
B.J. Thomas
Percy Sledge
Keith McKelley (November 2011)
Ozzy Osbourne--"Black Christmas"
Restless Heart
Eve Selis
A Fine Day For Sailing (British indie pop act planning a Christmas single)
Cadence
Rachel Holder
Gord Bamford (Canadian Country music star)
Cascada
AllStar Weekend
Dixie Dominus
The Baseballs (German "Voc N Roll" group, singing modern songs in 50s/60s style)
VocalSix (Swedish a cappella group)
Zach Huckabee Band (Contemporary Christian Pop/Rock with a Texas flavor)
Claymore Disco (Colorado Dance/Rock band)
Brad Jacobsen (New Age solo piano; nice stuff)
Possible in 2011, but 2012 more likely
Edwin McCain
Martina McBride
Crystal McKee (singer/songwriter in the Lisa Loeb vein and founder of the SoCal Female Acoustic Showcase)
2012
Pat Benatar
Jimmie Van Zant
Meat Loaf--"Hot Holidays"
The Oak Ridge Boys
Eddie Floyd
Donna Ulisse
Tanya Tucker
(possible in 2012)
Mariah Carey (expanded edition of "Merry Christmas II You")
John Legend
Kelly Clarkson
