Carols For Christmas Eve  (Audio CD) 
by Eileen Farrell

Consequently, it should not surprise anyone that her singing on this album of Christmas carols and songs, originally issued in the early '60's, is direct and honest -- rather as if she were in her own home singing along with the radio.

Farrell's voice has always had something motherly about it (not to be confused with matronly!), enfolding the listener in its warmth. That characteristic is very effective in Christmas carols, particularly the introspective lullabies. As would be expected from her years of exemplary singing, her diction and musicianship on this recording are impeccable.

The choice of carols is balanced between the well-known ("Deck the Halls", "Hark, the Herald Angels Sing", "Joy to the World") and the less well-known ("Sleep, Holy Babe", "The Coventry Carol", "Lullay My Liking" and "Snow in the Street").

The simple orchestrations give firm support to Farrell's ample voice. The chorus harmonies and sound have a distinct '60's aura, which does not, however, detract from the overall impression of this lovely concert.

14 of 14 found the following review helpful:

A Most Welcome Reissue  Oct 08, 2000
Those looking for a wonderful Christmas album to enjoy during the holiday season need look no further than this 1960 recording from Eileen Farrell and Luther Henderson. From Wagner to Ellington, Farrell's voice is always wonderful. Here she takes a lovely and gentle approach to the music, and in both style and tone, she finds a place halfway between her jazz and her classical singing. Well-known carols are interspersed with less known works; the seldom heard "Sleep Holy Babe" is especially welcome. The arrangements are a little dated but still charming, and Henderson contributes a light touch. Unlike most of the vocal Christmas recordings on the market, this is not an opera star woefully over singing the music, or a pop star destroying any reverence with rock stylings and over production; this is simply lovely singing that suits its material perfectly.