Many people are unaware that Elvis Presley’s biggest selling studio album was his late 1950s Christmas release. It also expanded his commercial appeal beyond his rock ‘n’ roll teenage base; millions of adults bought the album, which veered from his rock roots toward a more traditional pop sound.
Lately, there has been an increasing vinyl resurgence, and while Elvis’ Christmas material has been released dozens of times and in many formats, Merry Christmas Baby is a vinyl-only release issued on red and green vinyl. So crack up those record players because Elvis is coming to town.
The music was remastered from the original tapes and the modern technology gives it a clarity of sound that has been missing from many of the previous releases. When played on the proper equipment, it provides a superior listening experience.
As Elvis’ career progressed, his albums became more haphazard and inconsistent, but he never issued a poor or even an average Christmas, gospel, or sacred album. He always seemed more connected and invested with this type of material.
The 17 tracks travel from hymns such as “O Come All Ye Faithful” and “Silent Night” to the lighthearted “Santa Claus Is Back In Town” and “Here Comes Santa Claus” to such classics as “I’ll Be Home For Christmas” and “White Christmas.”
“Blue Christmas” has a bit of a kick to it as it pays homage to his rock ‘n’ roll roots. He captures the wistful and nostalgic nature of “I’ll Be Home For Christmas” just right. He even manages to turn lightweight material such as “If Everyday Was Like Christmas” and “Holly Leaves And Christmas Trees” into acceptable holiday fare.
There is still a vast Elvis fan base that will purchase just about any new release. However, if you have never been exposed to his holiday material or want to listen to some Elvis the way it was originally intended, then Merry Christmas Baby is an album for you.
