December 11, 200619 yr Christmas music! :D Any favorite versions of the "traditional" Christmas songs or whatnot? A few of the ones I enjoy are the albums "Merry Axemas: A Guitar Christmas" and it's 2nd volume. The tracks are largely done by prominent and well-respected guitarists in the industry...Steve Vai, Al Di Meola, Steve Morse, and Neal Schon just to name a few. Though the idea obviously caters to guitarists, it does provide a pretty extensive collaboration of ideas, many unique and soothing to take in. This aural adventure through amicable and adroit adaptations of traditional Christmas melodies really changed my mind about the genre in general...I wasn't really crazy about it for many years. Do try to pick it up at a record store if you get a chance; my particular favorite is Neal Schon's rendition of O Come, O Come Emmanuel. Also, I can't neglect the Trans-Siberian Orchestra. Whoever their guitarists are have crisp, intense tones that are reminiscent of Brian May (from Queen) in their timbre. Melodic and robust, they often deliver auditory aesthetics that are unmatched by the tones of most guitarists I've heard. At least one of their guitarists (Al Pirtrelli) studied at the revered Berkelee School of Music (before dropping out) and was called upon to replace Marty Friedman after he left Megadeth (not the most laudable credibility, I suppose). In addition to their guitars, I also enjoy the vocals. They are very theateresque in their projection and clarity. The annunciation(sic?) is immaculate compared to the drawling, mumbling lyrics of most artists who try to turn lyrical presentation into an art form so much that they end up sacrificing coherence for style. TSO's lyrical delivery is unfortunately rare, but definitely pleasing in the ability to employ a unique style while still allowing the listener to easily comprehend the lyrics. Anyone have any other Christmasey things they've heard and liked? Please share :)
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