Tony Bennett
The Classic Christmas Album
Sony Legacy/Columbia
www.legacyrecordings.com
By George W. Harris

How many 85 year olds are as active as Tony Bennett?!? He may have
some goofy conspiracy theories about 9-11, but you sure can’t deny his
vocal charms. This disc is a collection of highlights from his
Christmas discs (Snowfall, Our Favorite Things, Christmas With Tony
Bennett and A Swingin’ Christmas) from 1968-2008. The supporting
orchestras range from Bill Holman and Count Basie, along with the
London Symphony Orchestra, as well as some cozy small groups with Monty
Alexander. A duet with Placido Domingo on “The First Noel” is a
charmer, as well as “Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas” with Ralph
Sharon’s Quartet and an orchestra. This disc will make passing the
giblets around all the more homey.