A hugely expanded version
of The Supremes classic Merry Christmas album from 1965 – presented here with full stereo and mono mixes, a new 2017 mix, and even bonus tracks too! The core album was one
of THE classic Motown Christmas albums
of the 60s – a mighty statement
of Holiday pride from The Supremes – who are as strong here as on any
of their other non-seasonal work from the time! The class and care
of the trio really fits the new spirit
of Christmas that was emerging in 60s soul music – not the kinds
of raw songs about boozing or sadness on the holiday, which were a staple
of blues and R&B – but instead these warmly crafted songs
of home and hearth, set up perfectly with production by Harvey Fuqua and arrangements from Gene Page, HB Barnum and Ernie Freeman. The whole thing's incredibly soulful – but in a gentle way too – and the set features a dozen holiday numbers including "Silver Bells", "The Little Drummer Boy", "My Christmas Tree", "Rudolph The Red Nosed Reindeer", "Santa Claus Is Coming To Town", and "
Joy To The World". 2CD version features 50 tracks in all – 12 mono tracks, 12 stereo, and 12 more titles that are all these very cool alternate mixes
of the album, some with alternate vocals! Then, there's lots
of Supremes bonus tracks too – including "The Christmas Song (duet version)", "Season's Greetings", "My Favorite Things (live)", "It Won't Be Long Til Christmas", "Just A Lonely Christmas", and "O Little Town
Of Bethlehem".
(Holiday Music, Soul)