Saturday, 13 November 2021

Delta Goodrem - Only Santa Knows (Deluxe Edition)


6 WEEKS UNTIL CHRISTMAS!!

Buy-stream Only Santa Knows (Deluxe Edition) here (external link)
Read my review of the original release here

A Christmas album is for life - not just the holiday season it is released in. That is why I'm always delighted when an artist returns to visit their previous collection of Christmas classics and adds some new songs to it in the form of a deluxe edition. Delta Goodrem's Only Santa Knows opus was already an opulent exploration of the emotions of the season when it became an essential addition to the 2020 festive playlist; now she adds three playful new party moments and one simmering power ballad that will, no doubt, get your Yuletide shenanigans going with a swing, a finger click - and a heartfelt moment by the roaring fire wondering what might have been...
  • Christmas (Baby, Please Come Home) ~ the Darlene Love classic is ideal for Delta's powerful pipes (as amply evidenced by that scale defying first few notes she lets out as a cathartic palate cleanser before her emotive plea).  The production of the lushly textured score gives the song a mono, live feel to it - all adding to the organic nature of the overall performance. Delta sings not because her wish will necessarily come true but because it is part of the healing process putting her wish out into the world. Gorgeous.
  • Sleigh Ride ~ after the drama of that song, Delta deserves to have a little fun and she certainly gets that on a peppy, exhilarating new take on the wintry favourite. Pulsing percussion, sixties girl group style ring-a-ding backing vocals and a brassy horn section all adds to the thrill of this version. Chiming bells are like snow flakes falling as you rush along in the titular sleigh; meanwhile that cheeky middle 8 instrumental is as delightful as skating on a lake (and leads into a really beguiling vocal moment that enhances the magical enchantment you feel).
  • Jingle Bell Rock - I've barely caught my breath from the surprise key-change and last minute whinny of the last song before I'm flung into the best song you could possibly play to welcome your guests to your annual shin-dig. There is a cool, finger-click vibe to the music and Delta sounds like she is having the time of her life singing along. You can almost picture handing out the egg nog and welcoming revellers. Some really charming ad-libbed moments that sparkle as brightly as those textured vocal additions. 
  • Frosty The Snowman ~ I love a Christmas story and Delta turns out to be the most able raconteur of this timeless tale. There is a sixties pop feel to this and the score is so nuanced and detailed that multiple listens are required to appreciate everything that is going on. An electric guitar solo gives Frosty a bit of attitude and makes for a kick-up-your-heels/forget-your-worries finale for this deluxe edition of the album. The icing, you might say, on this already very delicious cake. 
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