| | Carpenters Christmas Collection CD Carpenters Discography of CDs
 (12 Customer Reviews)
Originally released as 2 separate albums, CHRISTMAS PORTRAIT and AN OLD-FASHIONED CHRISTMAS.
The Carpenters: Karen Carpenter, Richard Carpenter.
Producers: Richard Carpenter, Jack Daugherty, Karen Carpenter.
Adapters: Peter Knight; Richard Carpenter .
Personnel: Richard Carpenter (vocals, piano, keyboards); Karen Carpenter (vocals); Bob Messenger (tenor saxophone); Pete Jolly (keyboards); Pete Morgan (upright bass); Cubby O'Brien, Ron Tutt, Barry Morgan (drums).
Audio Mixers: Richard Carpenter ; Roger Young.
Liner Note Author: Paul Grein.
Photographer: Harry Langdon.
Arrangers: Peter Knight; Richard Carpenter ; Billy May.
In 1998, A&M released the original Carpenters' albums for the first time on CD. Along with the reissues, the label released Christmas Collection, a double-disc that combines Christmas Portrait and An Old Fashioned Christmas on one set. Neither album offers any surprises -- they sound exactly like you'd imagine a Carpenters Christmas album would sound like. Since the two albums are virtually interchangeable, relying on Richard's famously light, inoffensive arrangements and Karen's sweet, soaring vocals, they make for a terrific pairing. It is true that only hardcore fans will need this set, but they should be more than pleased by this definitive collection. ~ Stephen Thomas Erlewine
Reissued concurrently with the delayed issue of Karen Carpenter's solo album, this import CD contains both Carpenters Christmas records, 1978's CHRISTMAS PORTRAIT and 1984's AN OLD FASHIONED CHRISTMAS. Both albums are remastered and appear in their entirety on CD for the first time.
Purists should note that the 1984 release was completed after Karen's 1982 death and is comprised of outtakes from the 1978 recording sessions and instrumental performances (including selections from The Nutcracker Suite) performed by Richard Carpenter. Highlights of the set include traditional hymns and carols, Christmas pop standards and other seasonal tunes. Perhaps the set's highlight is Karen's wistful yet sultry rendition of Johnny Mercer's "What Are You Doing New Year's Eve?" Christmas Collection Music Carpenters Christmas Collection Songs Christmas Collection Music Review Average Rating: (4.8 out of 5 stars)   List All Reviews Christmas Magic!
Like another log on the fire, Karen's vocals are sure to warm your house, your heart and the whole holiday season.
Richard (along with 2 other legendary arrangers) set the perfect winter scene.
A timeless, perfectly executed masterpiece. Hands down a family favorite year after year!
Submitted by Dave (Chicago, IL, USA)
Was This Review Helpful? Yes No 1 of 1 found this helpful. Outstanding album
This is a true testament to the beautiful voice of Karen Carpenter and the musical ability of Richard. The album has great clarity and all of the songs are excellent.
Submitted by larryfranw (Exeter, RI) 
Was This Review Helpful? Yes No  Very good for Christmas
Very good for Christmas
Submitted by jean-pierre.jacques (Belgium)
Was This Review Helpful? Yes No
Carpenters Christmas Collection is Perfection!
What can I say about this 2-CD collection that hasn't already been said? Karen's voice in "Ave Maria" (my favorite!) is perfection. I get goosebumps every time I listen to it and I have been listening to Karen sing this song since 1984! Richard's adaption of the selection from the Nutcracker Suite is also perfect. Richard's adaptions and arrangements are like no one else's. He is the best.
Karen has always had the most beautiful, clear and angelic voice and no one, to this day, has been able to hold a candle to her. Karen will always have a special place in my heart and in my prayers. I know that she is smiling down upon us and if her voice was so awesome here on earth I can only dream what her voice must be like in Heaven! This CD is a must have!
Submitted by Cookie (Brownsville, TX USA)
Was This Review Helpful? Yes No Most Beautiful Christmas Music
I did not know this CD existed. I was so excited when I stumbled over it. Could hardly wait to get it in the mail. All I want to do is listen to it. Even though Christmas is over; I shall keep playing my Carpenter's Christmas CD until I get sick of it. There probably is no such thing. This is the ultimate in Christmas music. Not even Bing Crosby or any other artist has been able to surpass what Karen and Richard have been able to accomplish. Thank you for having this music for me. I love it!
Submitted by a reviewer (Harrisurg, PA, USA)
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