Cher Christmas Album Review: A Jolly Holiday Soundtrack

The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to get into the spirit than with a festive soundtrack? Cher, the legendary pop icon, has been a staple of the music industry for decades, and her Christmas album, "A Jolly Holiday", is a delightful addition to her extensive discography. In this review, we'll dive into the album's details, exploring its tracklist, musical style, and overall impact.

Cher's Holiday Cheer

Released in 2013, "A Jolly Holiday" is Cher's 26th studio album, and it marks her first foray into holiday music. The album features 14 tracks, including classic Christmas songs, winter-themed originals, and a few unexpected surprises. From the opening notes of "It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year", it's clear that Cher is in high spirits, delivering a warm and inviting performance that sets the tone for the rest of the album.

A Classic Christmas Soundtrack

The album's tracklist is a masterful blend of timeless holiday classics and modern interpretations. Cher's rendition of "I'll Be Home for Christmas" is a heartfelt tribute to the Bing Crosby original, while her take on "Jingle Bells" is a fun and upbeat twist on the classic. Other standout tracks include "Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)", a soulful duet with Steve Lukather, and "Merry Christmas, Baby", a sultry and swinging collaboration with Eric Clapton.

Modern Twists and Originals

In addition to the classic covers, "A Jolly Holiday" features several original tracks, showcasing Cher's skills as a songwriter and storyteller. "Just Like Christmas" is a poignant ballad about the magic of the season, while "Christmas" is a fun and catchy pop song with a nostalgic vibe. These originals add a fresh and modern spin to the album, making it more than just a traditional holiday playlist.

Celebrity Collaborations

One of the highlights of "A Jolly Holiday" is the array of celebrity collaborations, which add an extra layer of excitement and star power to the album. Cher's duet with Steve Lukather on "Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)" is a standout, with the Toto guitarist bringing his signature rock sound to the table. Eric Clapton's appearance on "Merry Christmas, Baby" is another welcome surprise, as the two music legends trade vocals and guitar licks in a swinging holiday romp.

A Festive Production

The production on "A Jolly Holiday" is top-notch, with a talented team of musicians and producers bringing the album to life. The arrangements are lush and festive, with a mix of traditional and modern instruments adding depth and texture to each track. From the opening notes of the first song, it's clear that a lot of love and care went into crafting this holiday album.

A Jolly Holiday: The Verdict

So, is "A Jolly Holiday" a worthy addition to Cher's discography? Absolutely. This album is a fun and festive holiday soundtrack that's sure to get you in the mood for the season. With its mix of classic covers, modern originals, and celebrity collaborations, there's something for everyone on this album. Whether you're a longtime Cher fan or just looking for a new holiday playlist, "A Jolly Holiday" is a must-listen.