Wonderland: Cool December

Performer: Various Artists
Producer: Brad Benedict
Distributor: Sony Music Distribution (

Notes: Personnel: Marjorie Hughes, Peg LaCentra (vocals). Liner Note Author: R.J. Smith. Recording information: 1936-2000. Photographer: Don Miller. Brought to you by the same people that developed Rhino's Ultra-Lounge series, Shout's Wonderland collections bring the same swanky feel to the holidays. As the title suggests, Wonderland: Cool December gathers festively frosty holiday songs with an emphasis on vocal jazz and pop performances like Bing Crosby's "Looks Like a Cold, Cold Winter" and Doris Day's "Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!." Unlike the Ultra-Lounge series, however, these collections aren't limited to a specific era, so contemporary performers such as Stacey Kent and Rene Marie are included along with tried-and-true singers like Sarah Vaughan and Dean Martin. The collection's 16-track length is generous enough to provide the soundtrack to a holiday party or sitting by the fire or tree, and packed with many highlights, including Pearl Bailey's "Baby, It's Cold Outside," Billie Holiday's "I've Got My Love to Keep Me Warm," and Ella Fitzgerald's "Sleigh Ride." An elegant and relaxed collection, Wonderland: Cool December is worthwhile for anyone who wants to bring a little class to their holiday festivities. ~ Heather Phares

Entertainment Weekly (12/19/03, p.74) - (12/19/03, p.74) - "...A strictly winter-weather-themed collection for anyone whose tolerance for overt Christmas references has been used up." - Rating: B+

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