Tuesday, 24 November 2020

Michael Ball & Alfie Boe - Together At Christmas


ONE MONTH UNTIL CHRISTMAS EVE!!

Buy-stream Together At Christmas here (external link)

To paraphrase Prince, its the greatest bromance ever told - the most majestic festive pairing since David Bowie convinced Bing Crosby to come out of retirement. Michael Ball and Alfie Boe, both musical legends in their own right, have teamed up once more and this time they have decided to be Together At Christmas. Although they've always tagged their partnership as the *Together* brand, the title feels particularly apt for Christmas 2020 after a year of lockdown and isolation. Their exquisite selection of festive favourites along with their world class emotive delivery helps you celebrate the magic of the season no matter what life throws at you. So dive in, luxuriate in the elegance and let the spirit of Christmas wash over you...
  • It's Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas ~ there is a lovely instrumental introduction, akin to the orchestra playing while you await the cast of some fabulous festive musical to take the stage. When Messrs Boe and Ball immerse you in this seasonal standard, it is done so with a graceful laid back pace that lets you savour all their vivid descriptions and nuanced intonations. Bliss...
  • Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas ~ kudos for not editing out the original Meet Me In St Louis opening to the song; Judy Garland would be thrilled! This starts as a soothing trio of piano and dual vocal before strings sweep in like snow over the horizon, adding a 50s Hollywood Movie musical aura to this lilting melodies. Sung with a beautiful sincerity and hope that is tangible...
  • Mistletoe and Wine ~ the Cliff Richard number one originally began life sung by Twiggy in a musical called Scraps; the Together At Christmas version continues to feel like the cast recording to a seasonal musical with a heart felt vocal performance. The jingling bells and the intertwined vocals make this a charming, uplifting gem that will have you singing along (if not quite as well as the Together chaps)!
  • Christmas (Baby Please Come Home) ~ not everything at Christmas is fairy lights and silent nights. Sometimes it is also longing and aching. Alfie and Sir Michael convey this with such dramatic and exquisite beauty on this Darlene Love standard that you feel every emotion with them (rather than them just telling you how to feel). Those backing vocals elevate it to be a request you couldn't possibly refuse.
  • I Believe ~  I'm young/old enough to remember this being a chart topper for Robson and Jerome about 25 years ago; this stirring version has made me nostalgic for the days when songs like this used to regularly top the charts. We all need a little hope, happiness and optimism right now and the swell of vocal and instrument on this track buoy your spirits and make you a believer all over again. Enchanting...
  • The Christmas Song ~ Like 40s radio stars traversing the passages of time, our intrepid singers have crafted a version that takes you back to simpler times that we so often long to recreate. There is a real charm to the way the string orchestra dance elegantly the singing - and the guys know they don't need to belt this to the rafters to give it the sentimental effect it leaves you with, just the emphasis of their emotions.
  • White Christmas ~ Andrews Sisters style harmonies breathe the song into life, whilst Michael and Alfie embody the spirit of Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye. There is an earnest sincerity in their performance that makes the message feel personal and heartfelt. Everything about the production of the song is perfectly pitched - the lilting score, the crackling effect of old vinyl subtly infused into the musical score and the magic of the chiming bells. Heaven.
  • Silent Night ~ picture yourself in one of England's most impressive cathedrals at Christmas Eve carol concert where the world's finest have gathered to share their versions of their favourite songs and you probably imagine Michael and Alfie singing this song. A gorgeous choir infuses the song with a serenity that enhances the powerful singing of Alfie; the reverent tones of Michael. All is calm indeed...
  • The Spirit of Christmas ~ I never imagined Alfie singing a country music influenced song but my gosh does it work well. The shuffling percussion and pretty guitar glitter like the brightest star on the tree. Michael is a great raconteur and it turns out telling stories comes oh so naturally to them. Play whenever you need a reminder about the true meaning of Christmas - or just want to "ooo" along with that harmonious choir...
  • O Holy Night ~ back to the cathedral for my very favourite carol. I'm quite protective of this and have high expectations. I'm not in any way disappointed. It crescendos at a steady pace with the appropriate moments giving you all sort of goosebumps. The awe of "fall on your knees" and the final celestial "oh night divine" leaves you spiritually satiated - and even if not religious, it has you glowing at the majesty of it all.
  • I'll Be Home For Christmas ~ At times grandiose, others wistful and sometimes joyous, this song of hope and optimism takes you through a gamut of emotions, yet never loses sight of the fact that the vocalists serve to conjure up anticipation for what may come to pass each and every Christmas Day. There is determination and promise in their version and, whether it comes to pass or not, their intent is plain for the world to see.
  • My Christmas Will Be Better Than Yours ~ this is a rare treat. Michael and Alfie kick up their heels on a riotous romp with a healthy dollop of theatrical cabaret. Trying to one up each other, like a festive Anything You Can Do I can Do Better, means each lyric and its cheeky chappy delivery will bring a smile to your face. Throw in a ho-ho-ho key change and it makes you glad from head to (mistle)toe!
  • Once Upon A December ~ gothic fairy tale, Mr Boe imbues his opening vocal with an aching angst at his situation, while Mr Ball unveils the hope within the words. They are accompanied by a music box melody and some soaring choral harmonies that add a sense of ethereal majesty to their yearning pleas. Beautifully textured, wonderfully performed, it becomes a magical spell that entrances all those listening.
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