Rosemary Clooney White Christmas CD

This is a hybrid Super Audio CD playable on both regular and Super Audio CD players.

Includes liner notes by Nick Clooney, Glen Barros, Dolores Hope and Bob Hope.

Although Rosemary Clooney had a major part in the famous film White Christmas back in 1954, this was her first full Christmas album and it was a big seller when it was released late in 1996. From the jazz standpoint, there is not much here, as Clooney is accompanied by a huge orchestra conducted and mostly arranged by Peter Matz. Although there are a few brief solos from altoist Gary Foster, tenor saxophonist Dan Higgins, trombonist Chauncey Welsch and trumpeter Warren Luening, the music is essentially nostalgic middle-of-the-road pop with Clooney joined on several numbers by the Earl Brown Singers (who also take brief a cappella versions of some veteran Christmas tunes); one tune apiece features appearances by Michael Feinstein and Rosemary's brother Nick Clooney. But jazz content aside, Rosemary Clooney is in good voice, and the heartfelt emotions that she expresses on these Yuletide favorites communicate quite well. ~ Scott Yanow

Recorded at Capitol Studios, Los Angeles, California on April 1-4, 1996.

Recorded at Capitol Studios, Los Angeles, California on April 1-4, 1996. Includes liner notes by Nick Clooney, Glen Barros, Dolores Hope and Bob Hope.

Personnel includes: Rosemary Clooney, Michael Feinstein, Nick Clooney (vocals); Peter Matz (arranger); Gary Foster (alto saxophone); John Oddo (piano); Tim May (guitar); Chuck Berghofer (bass); Albie Berk (drums); The Peter Matz Orchestra; The Earl Brown Singers.