Saturday, 16 November 2019

Bryan Adams - Christmas EP


39 DAYS UNTIL CHRISTMAS!!

Buy Bryan Adams' Christmas EP here (external link)

There is something rather lovely about how actual living legend, Bryan Adams, takes all the complexities of emotions of the festive season and makes it seem as effortlessly simple and joyous as his brand new EP, Christmas. Even the cover art is a wonder - that bold red background sets off his black outfit perfectly whilst the green Christmas tree pops out at you; plus I love the fact that he is either running to bring Christmas to you or escaping from those who pour miserly humbug on the most wonderful time of the year. And across the five songs he has collated there are old favourites, a surprise cover version and a brand new track to get you feeling merry and bright as the big day approaches. His signature rock'n'roll style vibe is ever present across each of the songs, lending a frisson of energy to the music. It's clear he's doing this all for love - and his enthusiasm is nothing but contagious...

The EP opens with that ballyhooed new song, Joe and Mary. True story, I once got sent out of Sunday School for calling Joseph "Joe" but no such reprimand for Mr Adams as he uses the abbreviated name to make the story of the world's two most famous parents seem relatable to all. With a driving guitar riff and effusive percussion, it is a musical setting Bryan excels in - and his wry, insightful lyrics bring the narrative to life with a cheeky charm. The country influences on the song highlight what a natural raconteur the singer is and it is a vibrant opening that sets the standard for what is to follow. And what follows is holiday glee wrapped in musical mischief - Must Be Santa. Made famous by Bob Dylan, Bryan retains the call and response style structure. This serves to make this the greatest egg-nog style drinking song or just a healthy dollop of fun you can have with the kids to keep the distracted before Santa shimmies down the chimney.

The remainder of the EP is a greatest hits of holiday songs from Bryan - but no less effusive. His 1985 single, Christmas Time, feels just as exhilarating as the new tracks - and is still a timely reminder of how we should embrace the magic of the season and keep it with us all year round. In fact, in today's troubled times the lyrics and earnest delivery feel more vital than ever. Despite regular airplay every year, this is the first time the song has appeared on any Bryan Adams release since the single came out. Same with the b-side, Reggae Christmas. The buoyant track takes you to sunnier climes for the season and matches the merriment quota you found on Must Be Santa. For a song that is over 30 years old it has aged like a fine wine. The EP comes to a close with with his 2011 single, Merry Christmas. What a lovely sentiment to end the EP with - a swaying, swaggering groove with lyrics which remind us to appreciate the ones we are with. With the descriptive lyrics painting a winter wonderland it leaves you satsified yet wanting just a little more. Hit repeat (or wait for the Bryan-Robbie Williams duet on the latter's album in just a weeks time)...

**Ghosts of Christmas Past**
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