Music Review: Christmas from the Heart
What Parents Should Know
Parents need to know that this is as safe as a holiday album
can be, and although most of these songs are familiar to all
ages, the classical nature might not totally appeal to kids
looking for a holiday album with a pop sound. Unlike
Archuleta's previous releases, this album will probably appeal
to more mature tastes since there are very few fast-paced tunes
(or references to Santa, for that matter). This album is more
for introspective thought and a celebration of faith, rather
than a rock around the Christmas tree.
CHRISTMAS FROM THE HEART contains some of the most
well-known and classic songs of the season, like "Angels We
Have Heard on High," "O Come All Ye Faithful," and "Silent
Night," as well as centuries-old tunes like "Ave Maria" and the
French traditional "Pat-A-Pan." Archuleta takes a break from
his traditionally youthful pop sound to offer up a more refined
voice here, with restrained harmonies and low-key melodies.
There is, however, one original song amongst the standards,
called "Melodies of Christmas"; it was co-written by Archuleta
and ends the album reaffirming the sentiments of faith and
family expressed in the other dozen tracks.
If David Archuleta didn't have such a boyish look on this
album's cover, it might be easier to make the connection
between this
American Idol sweetheart and the refined vocals on
Christmas from the Heart. Some might say that Archuleta
plays it safe, covering such classics as "Ave Maria" and "What
Child Is This," but it's a big risk when you consider his young
fan base is probably looking more for a upbeat pop-infused
album rather than an operatic nod to the classics. Archuleta's
vocals are impressive and hold their own on well-loved
standards. His own original song, "Melodies of Christmas," does
a nice job of offering up a modern track that still fits in
nicely with the overall feel of the LP, wrapping up this
musical gift.
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