ClayManiacs

Wholesome American Idol runner-up Clay Aiken follows in the tradition of PC pop crooners Perry Como and Andy Williams with this album of traditional Christmas fare. For this family-friendly collection, produced by Phil Ramone (Tony Bennett, Barry Manilow) and Walter Afanasieff (Mariah Carey, Kenny G), the North Carolina native lends his dramatic vocals to a dozen Yuletide favorites that provide the perfect background music for tree trimming or nuzzling by the fire. Supported by lush string arrangements, Aiken easily switches gears from a snappy, Harry Connick–reminiscent reading of "Winter Wonderland" to a subdued version of "Sleigh Ride." The slight singer even sinks his vibrato-tinged chops into Celine Dion's "Don't Save It All for Christmas Day," which is given an R&B sheen, thanks to an arrangement of organ, gospel harmonies, and vocal phrasing that's more robust than anything else on the disc. Not surprisingly, this devout Christian really shines on the disc's more spiritual material -- whether it's the hand-in-glove fit of Aiken's pliable tenor with the children's accompaniment provided by Broadway Inspirational Voices on a delicate rendering of "Silent Night" or the robust phrasing reverberating throughout an uplifting version of "Joy to the World." Earnest and endearing, Aiken's Merry Christmas with Love is a winning holiday record. Dave Gil de Rubio

by Stephen Thomas Erlewine

Clay Aiken is a show-biz creature, so it's only appropriate that his sequel to his hit 2003 debut Measure of a Man is 2004's Merry Christmas With Love — after all, there are few things quite as showbiz as a holiday album. Aiken is a rarity in the new millennium: an old-fashioned, unironic middle-of-the road singer. Those are the kinds of vocalists that always fare very well on Christmas records, so it should be no surprise that Aiken turns in a good holiday album. Actually, there are no surprises on the album — the song selections are all standards, the arrangements are traditional and unobtrusive, always emphasizing Clay's voice, and the record is given a safe, high-gloss sheen ideal for adult contemporary radio. If there are any surprises with Merry Christmas With Love — well, apart from Clay's impish, elfin look on the front cover — it's that his singing is better, more assured here than it was on Measure of a Man. Then again, that debut was released a little over four months after he came in on second on the second season of American Idol. He's had more time to work on Merry Christmas With Love, and it seems to benefit his performance, which bodes well for his second proper studio album.

apart from Clay's impish, elfin look on the front cover

November 16th marked the release of former American Idol runner-up Clay Aiken’s highly anticipated holiday cd
‘Merry Christmas with Love’. This follow up to his successful debut effort ‘Measure of a Man’ is a twelve song compilation of traditional fare and spiritual music with just the right mix of winter warming tunes to liven up the dullest of Holiday parties.

This is just a small portion of the Clay holiday blitz. Aiken kicks off a twenty city Christmas show this weekend. There is The Clay Aiken Holiday Special broadcast on December 8th. Aiken will also be making the rounds of the usual daytime and primetime shows, promoting both the holiday cd and his inspiring memoir ‘Learning to sing: Hearing the music in your life’ (Random House), Clay Aiken has become the Andy Williams of a new generation.

Merry Christmas with Love begins with the solemn O, Holy night, a haunting and lovely rendition that Aiken uses to demonstrate the great vocal skill he possesses. A longtime Christmas show favorite/ emcee back in his home area, Aiken presents this little gift for the listener in the form of a wonderful holiday song backed by an a full orchestra.

Sleigh Ride is the lively, jazz infused second song. A nice, danceable favorite that could be played long after Christmas passes. Put down the eggnog, grab your sweetie, and hit the dance floor! (although, Aiken may need to release the ‘Sleigh Ride Dance Mix’ As it could use another 2 minutes coming in at a bit under three minutes in length.)

Aiken returns to the spiritual side with Silent Night, backed by the beautiful voices of Michael McElroy and members of the Broadway Inspirational Voices. (Yes Simon Cowell…Clay IS “Broadway”…when he looks for powerful vocal accompaniment!). Nothing new here, but his version is top notch, and the listener can really appreciate the production value on this cd, something that was a bit lamented by fans on ‘Measure of a Man’.

A traditional Holiday medley of Hark the herald angels sing / O come all ye faithful continues the traditional aspect of ‘Merry Christmas with Love’, and while I’m partial to the Peanuts gang’s version, this is a nice medley and it sounds like Aiken really enjoys singing to the heavens on this track.

Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas is a song that has been done by everyone..everywhere..on every holiday album. However, the fact that Aiken chose such a wonderful style as holiday songs with a jazz tinged backing makes this yet another of the danceable tunes on this cd.

Aiken sings praises of his deep religious conviction and the true meaning of Christmas with ‘Mary Did You Know’, a song without fancy orchestration and mostly Clay singing from deep inside himself. A haunting but lovely song that one doesn’t find on many standard Holiday cds, but true to the style much of Aiken’s early work.

Joy to the World livens up ‘Merry Christmas with Love’ by featuring Aiken and the return of The Broadway Inspirational Voices.
Certain to please the Gospel music fan out there, and another traditional holiday nugget.

The Christmas Song(Chestnuts roasting on an open fire) is another…old chestnut given the Aiken treatment. Once again, this song is all over the holiday music lists, but fans of Clay will love his version. I still prefer the Nat King Cole version, but some things are better with age.

A personal favorite and one featured on Fox’s American Idol Holiday special last year is Don't Save It All for Christmas Day’, a song made popular and written by Celine Dion, but Clay really gives it his all on this one. A song about having the good holiday spirit, and continuing those feelings throughout the year. His vocal prowess is highlighted by wondrous glory notes and powerful vocal dynamics. Goosebumps. That is all.

The title track ‘Merry Christmas with Love’is sweet story of someone who may be alone during the holidays, either physically or spiritually. The lyrics as sung by Aiken send his special holiday message to those who may really need it during a sometimes depressing time of the year. Very nice song, and uplifting.

‘Merry Christmas with Love ends with two seasonal songs that can complete the holiday season.
Winter Wonderland takes the listener to snowy meadows with Clay. The finale ‘What Are You Doing New Years Eve?’sets the fervent Clay lovers hearts aflutter as they hear him look for his New Year’s date. The sound you hear is swooning from coast to coast and beyond. A wonderful conclusion to this Holiday cd .

With the release of Clay Aikens ‘Merry Christmas With Love’, he establishes himself solidly as more than just a “Claymate” object of fanaticism or an American Idol wannabe. He proves that his style is ever evolving, maturing as he also matures. The style of music Aiken provides on this holiday cd may be a preview of what genre of music he is most comfortable with, and best suits what he feels his audience craves as well.
--Ray Courtright, Jr.

Clay Aiken, Merry Christmas, With Love: It seems no American singer-songwriter is really, truly on the map until they put out a Christmas album. With this release, Aiken gives his devoted followers something to warm their hearts through the holidays... and there’s a good cause behind it, also. Aiken is working with UNICEF to make sure children around the world have proper food, shelter, and schooling.

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Well, the magic is over. This Christmas music rehash sung by Clay’s syrupy sweet voice is enough to make Santa’s elves quit this year if they have to put this one in the stockings……

Just kidding of course. That was my imitation of most other “Music Critic’s” review of Clay’s music. If you turn that review 180 degrees around, you’ll get an idea of how I really feel about Clay’s Christmas venture “Merry Christmas with Love”. Looks like another plate of platinum served up by Mister Aiken.

While all the “traditionals” are sung beautifully, there are 4 songs that I particularly like above and beyond.
They are:
“Mary Did You Know”,”Don’t Save it all for Christmas Day”, “Merry Christmas with Love” (the title cut) and “What Are You Doing New Year’s Eve?”

“Mary Did You Know”, if you are not familiar with this song, it is sung from the point of view of the singer telling Mary about all the great things Jesus would do in his lifetime. The tune is haunting and beautiful. I had only heard this song once before and was greatly moved at the time. Clay sings it with the passion and with the belief that he is actually talking to Mary. The music is subtle and allows Clay’s voice to do what Clay’s voice can do; move you. It is truly a wonderful rendition. It’s always hard to top an original performance of any song because the first time you hear it, in your mind, it’s the way it should be sung. But Clay does the improbable and surpasses the original. I could listen to it over and over again. As a matter of fact, I have.

“Don’t Save it all for Christmas Day”, you may recognize this one as one Clay sang on the AI Christmas special last year. I really liked it when I heard it then, but Clay goes one better on this CD version. There is one point where Clay does a boisterous key change that adds more life to the song. He is also able to show of his impressive range. I could listen to it over and over again. As a matter of fact, I have.

“Merry Christmas with Love”, is the title cut and is also one I have never heard. Another beautiful song. Another masterful job by Clay. I don’t think if I ever hear this song again sung by anyone else will I be quite as charmed. I could listen to it over and over again. As a matter of fact, I have.

“What Are You Doing New Year’s Eve?”, is another one I haven’t heard, yet again, love it. This song sounds like a song from the 30’s or 40’s. For all I know, it is. Clay sounds like he’s from another time on this one and fits in just fine. It reminds me of the time he sang with Bing Crosby last Christmas. You see, Clay sings so well even the dead want to come back alive to sing with him. This is probably my favorite, on this first, of what I’m sure will be many Christmas CD’s from Clay. I could listen to it over and over again. As a matter of fact, I have.

Gladys Knight once said of Clay, she didn’t know quite what would happen with him but something wonderful would happen. Well, we all know now what has happened and it is wonderful, but not as much for him as for us, his fans. This Christmas CD is a great gift from Clay that Clay fans as well as anyone will absolutely love. As for true Clay fans, once you put this CD in your player you’ll want to listen to it over and over again. As a matter of fact, I’ll bet you already have.

Idolhead Ed  

5 stars - Even non-fans will like this one, November 18, 2004
Reviewer: James D. Leverton (San Marcos, CA USA) - See all my reviews

Is there a more divisive force in pop music today than Clay Aiken? For some unfathomable reason, Clay is a singer who inspires as much loathing as love, although it is beyond me why a clean-cut, God-fearing, apple pie-eating, momma-loving All-American Southern kid like him would be so despised by so many. But I digress. The subject at hand is Clay's new Christmas album, "Merry Christmas with Love," and the verdict is in: it's a wonderful collection of holiday standards that, unlike Clay's admittedly overproduced debut "Measure of a Man," should have widespread appeal that will bring Aiken new fans, please the diehards and silence the critics who hope (in vain, IMHO) that he disappears from the musical landscape faster than he appeared two years ago on "American Idol."

Even Clay's diehard fans who loved "Measure" will admit that the album didn't do his considerable talents justice. With too many producers helming too many sound-alike ballads, all overseen by executive producer Clive Davis in much the same way a blind cop would direct traffic, "Measure" was pleasant and had many fine moments (the title track, the lone hit "Invisible" and the incredible power ballad "I Survived You" among them) but failed to expand his fan base much beyond the "Idol" crowd. "Merry Christmas with Love" should change that as it is an album even non-fans will enjoy. With Davis no longer at the helm and only two producers (Phil Ramone and Walter Afanasieff) working separately on approximately half the album apiece, the result is a much more cohesive and balanced package that showcases Clay's incredible vocal power and range while lowering the volume of the accompanying orchestration so that it is his voice, and not the instrumentation, that drives the songs. The result is several beautifully understated readings and a resisting of the temptation of having Clay attempt to blow the listener away with one "glory note" after another, so that when he finally does let loose with all his vocal power it is extremely effective.

The album highlights include wonderful, understated readings of "O, Holy Night," "Silent Night," and "Mary Did You Know?" and bouncy, uplifting renditions of "Sleigh Ride" and "Winter Wonderland." The title track is very effective, and the album ends on a touching note with "What Are You Doing New Year's Eve?" But the absolute highlight is Clay's goosebump-inducing, incredibly moving version of Celine Dion's "Don't Save it All for Christmas Day," in which he starts off in understated mode and slowly builds toward a last-minute crescendo that is beautifully complimented by an effective gospel choir and orchestration. Clay actually manages to out-Dion Celine with the tune, and it wouldn't surprise me in the least if she herself was impressed and called with her congratulations.

In all, Clay and his producers have delivered an outstanding Christmas package that should quiet (for the time being) the tiresome rantings of his critics, satisfy his legions of fans while they (impatiently) await his sophomore pop effort, and bring new fans aboard while at least offering those on the fence with ample proof why he inspires the kind of devotion that hasn't been seen since the days of the Beatles and Elvis.

"Merry Christmas with Love" should sell well through Christmas and become a new perennial holiday classic. Clay, Ramone and Afanasieff have done themselves proud, and the result bodes well for Clay's future projects. Take a bow, gentlemen.

A singer for 4 generations, November 19, 2004
 Reviewer: Don (USA) - See all my reviews

 Well I think I have finally been caught. I don't generally follow too many  singers, so while I have heard of Clay and stumbled across him on several occasions on TV, I never really gave him a  tremendous amount of thought. My granddaughter started this by being enamored with American Idol  during season 2. I had never watched, but she got my daughter and  son-in-law to  watch with her, so it became a nice little family show they could watch. She was very upset that Clay didn't win, as  they all really liked him a lot. Well the request was for Grandpa to  buy her Clay's record when it  came out after the show, and the compilation record. So that's what Grandma and  I got her. Well, we took my mother to the birthday party as well. When Sam had to play  her new  records, she caught  my mother and I both with Bridge Over Troubled Water. I grew up on Simon and Garfunkel, as well as  others of that era. Well, Mom fell for it and on the way home, we had to stop and get it for her as well---but I didn't get one. Yes, it was great, but I don't listen to a lot of music any more, so it didn't matter to me.

 I forgot about him that summer cause I didn't really see or hear him much. I  stumbled on him next on Miss America (which the wife loves). He was pretty darn good. Then I stumbled across him again at the opening of the World Series. He is one of the few I have ever heard be able to truly sing that song, and live to boot. Then he popped up several more places that I watch, like the Tonight show, the Macy Parade, Disney Christmas. It seemed like everywhere I turned there he was. I even  found him on my TV for New Years. We had to watch the Christmas American Idol show, for same granddaughter. Don't Save It All For Christmas Day was new to me. I really liked that--good song. He did a really good job. Each time I heard him,I thought he had a really good voice--pretty distinctive from what I heard now days--which is part of why I don't really listen to radio any more. I grew up with music all around me. My mom had all the big band records, loved Bing Crosby, Frank, and people who could "really sing" as she says. I also played piano for years, with a teacher who made you learn classical before you could ever dream of wanting popular. I also was involved with a band throughout high school and college. So music had been a really big part of my life for years. But I got turned off several years back.

I heard him again on the Tonight show--again. This time it was Solitaire. Well, beginning of summer he shows up, of all places, on a NASCAR show I was going to watch. Then, on July 4, he's on my TV again. I can't seem to watch a family tradition (of this family)without seeing him. Once again, his singing of the Star Spangled Banner amazed me. That song is just butchered by almost everyone who tries to sing it. And he does it great. Well, wife informs me that I will just never guess who has this new record out and this time it is Christmas music. Well, as I said, I grew up with all those traditions, the yearly shows on TV of Como, Crosby, Martin, Williams and more. And I must say, that is the one time I really can get  back into enjoying music. And by now I know which singer around today keeps popping into my family traditions--so let me guess---Clay has it. Yup. Well why fight it, so we go to the store to get it. She played it as soon as we got home. Well, it is still playing a lot, and it is three days later. Oh, yeah and I had to make another trip back to the store because guess who else has to have a copy? My 82 year old mother. This is her kind of music and the first singer in years to let her hear music as she loves it, very sensitive, emotional, and a quality voice.

Of course granddaughter is getting it for Christmas (if she doesn't con me out of it before---you know how little girls can just smile and make the biggest dad or granddad melt--and she so knows how to do it.)

This is the best Christmas record I think I have ever heard. Some of the songs are the best I have heard in years, even if they weren't Christmas. Merry Christmas With Love is great. Silent Night is beautiful. Sleigh Ride is fun and happy, just as it should be. Old traditions are there with Winter Wonderland and The Christmas Song. Both are done exceptionally well. What Are You Doing New Year's Eve almost reminds me of childhood, listening to Mom's generation's music. Mary Did You Know was a new one for me, but Mom is familiar with it from church----it was actually one of ththe ones she really wanted the record for. Well, this song makes a big guy feel emotional just listening to it. O Holy Night, which has always been a personal favorite, is another song that too many people butcher or change so drastically for their "stamp" that they ruin it. It is one of the  most beautiful songs ever written in my opinion and it's very hard to  please me on it. I must say I was truly blown away. This version is amazing. And the final one that grabs me is the one I heard last year on the TV show. Don't Save It All For Christmas Day is the most astonishing thing I have heard in years, let alone to come out of the mouth of a "pop" star.

Now again, I grew up on pop or rock and roll or whatever you want to call it. And those types of singers just can't sing like this. The quality, the tone, the control, the range, the strength, and the emotion is just beyond words. This has truly brought a grown man, who almost felt like abandoning music, back to appreciating it again. And better than that, I can have Christmas dinner and open presents with my 82 year old  mother, my daughter and son-in-law and my grandchildren, and we can all agree on a CD we want to listen to. Who else could 4 generations of people from 82 to 1, and numerous ages in between, agree on and love?

I give up Clay. I am a fan, and you can show up on my TV anytime. You can even appear on my stereo, that hasn't had much use the last few years. And I will even purposely tune my TV to catch your Christmas special, for the chance to see you perform some of these songs.

WOW where did this guy come from??????, November 17, 2004
Reviewer: I Luv Talent "Pat" (USA)
So, I went out at lunch time to buy this CD because I heard someone played Mary Did You Know for me at the office. I have to apologize to this person now because I have been making fun of them for being a Claymate. This is the guy that all the DJs and critics are taking potshots at? I just can't believe this guy's voice. I admit I've never really listened to him except that song Invisible and although it's catchy and his voice is strong--I just had no idea he could sing like this--I'm totally and utterly amazed. I don't think I've ever heard a voice like this.

The songs on here are classics and the ones I am familiar with I feel like I've heard them for the first time. I remember Kenny Rogers did Mary Did You Know but it certainly didn't sound anything like the version on this CD. I really like the song Don't Save it All for Christmas Day--WOW, again I'm blown away. I had never heard Merry Christmas With Love or What are You Doing New Year's Eve--they sound classic but they're new to me so these were a really pleasant surprise.

I'm not a very religious person but some of the songs Silent Night, Hark the Herald Angels Sing and O Holy Night touched me in a way I haven't felt for a long, long time.

Debbie, this is my public apology to you for rolling my eyes at you, making fun of your obsession, and not listening to what you had to say. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for introducing me to such a remarkable talent.

Clay Aiken - Merry Christmas With Love

don't know how one could be disappointed with this superb collection of Christmas songs, performed beautifully by Clay Aiken. The recording offers both fun and traditional songs such as: “Winter Wonderland,” “The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting On an Open Fire),” “Sleigh Ride,” “O Holy Night,” and “Silent Night”--each branded with Clay's unique and breathtaking vocal range.

Although all the songs on this CD are wonderful, two tracks stand out as the most beautiful and inspiring: “Mary, Did You Know?” and “Don't Save It All for Christmas,” which has Clay's signature, effortlessly performed high-notes. Clay Aiken's “Merry Christmas with Love” is quite a special album to have around the holidays this year, and for years to come.

So, cozy up with you favorite snugly blanket, watch the lights twinkle on the tree and enjoy some good holiday music by a great singer. I'll be playing it a lot during the days leading up to Christmas!

Reviewer: Lynda Dale MacLean new pop


Reviewer's Rating: 8

Editorial Reviews
Amazon.com
Clay Aiken may look wide-eyed and unassuming, but when it comes to figuring out what his fans want for Christmas, he's got it all figured out. On Merry Christmas with Love he so cannily anticipates the musical sugarplums dancing in the heads of his devotees that you half expect him to climb down the chimney and hand-deliver it. Key to the dozen-song collection's appeal is its straightforwardness: Parting ways with the sea of celebrities who use holiday discs as an excuse to cut loose, Aiken banishes irony and coyness so absolutely here that certain carols--the medley "Hark the Herald Angels Sing/O Come All Ye Faithful" and "Silent Night" especially--take on church-like tones; expect tree trimmers to put aside their tinsel and contemplate the meaning of the season. Yet don't expect them to miss out on any merriment. On less chestnutty selections like the ballads "Mary Did You Know" and Celine Dion's "Don't Save It All for Christmas Day," Aiken lets it rip, reining in a passion and pure-heartedness so believable that fans will wish he, rather than the guy in the red velvet suit, were Santa Claus. -Tammy La Gorce

Reviewer: MusicAppreciation101 (Michigan) -  
Imagine having a nine-time Grammy award winning producer like Phil Ramone work on your album. Someone who worked on Ray Charles' album "Genius Loves Company." Then imagine two-time Grammy Award winning Producer Walter Afanasieff whose credits include "My Heart Will Go On" Celine Dion, "My All" Mariah Carey, "Broken Vow" Josh Groban.

If you can imagine any of the above, then you'll get an idea as to the quality of Clay Aiken's "Merry Christmas With Love." Every arrangement has been done with great care. This is definitely not a boring listen. It's traditional in theme, but Clay's ability to change his voice throughout the album makes this CD far superior to your normal holiday CD. There aren't many recording artists that can vocally go from Michael Crawford to Celine Dion on the same record like Clay does. It doesn't sound like a big difference, but it really is. Clay has several different singing voices and you get to hear many of them on this record.

The Ramone/Afanasieff combination keeps you tuned in. It's a nice contrast in style. I would highly recommend this album for anyone.

Artist :   Clay Aiken  
 
 Album: Merry Christmas with Love  
 
 Label:    RCA  
 
 Year Released:  2004  
 
 Writer: Mary Ann Everett  
 
 
 Clay Aiken, like his sound or not, you must admit he is making his mark on the music industry. His second album, " Merry Christmas with Love," available November 16th, should certainly continue his trend of sales success and endear him even further to his legions of loyal fans. I strongly suspect those who haven't given Clay Aiken a second thought in the past year will be snapped to attention when they have the pleasure of hearing this magnificent compliation of holiday classics. Mixed with a few newer tunes, these classics showcase a tenor voice that is rivaled by a very few.

"Merry Christmas with Love," is greatly enhanced by the talent of various accompanying choirs, vocalists and musicians rather than overpowered by them. At times, it is almost as if Clay is singing acappella.

"O Holy Night," and "Silent Night," are truly timless pieces which are perfect for Clay's tenor voice. He seems to effortlessly reach the high notes and lulls you into the Christmas spirit with the low notes. "O Holy Night," builds beautifully and is enhanced in the last minute by background vocals from Jacob, Quiana and Angela. In "Silent Night," the background vocals provided by the Broadway Inspirational Voices blend quite well with Clay's voice to produce a soothing rendition of this reverent classic.

"Hark The Herald," and "O Come All Ye Faithful Melody," reminds me of Christmas Eve church services. Clay's voice soars at points and flows flawlessly from one song to the other.With the piano accompaniment and backup vocals being quite subtle, the power and quality of his voice fills your heart to overflowing.

"Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas," "The Christmas Song," and "Winter Wonderland," are classic tunes that have not been revamped for the new millennium. The piano accompaniment in all three is perfectly subtle, allowing Clay to earnestly wish you a Merry Christmas and paint a beautifully wintery scene in your mind.

"Mary Did You Know," is a long time favorite of mine and Clay's version certainly will not disappoint the listener. His voice is so smooth, you want to close your eyes and picture Mary holding her percious baby. The Finger Snaps Orchestra and background vocals add to the drama of the song.

"Joy to the World," is upbeat and Clay's clear enunciation of every word is beautifully enhanced by the Broadway Inspirational Voices. This song can be difficult, but Clay pulls it off flawlessly.

"Don't Save it All for Christmas Day," is an amazing song with a powerful message. The orchestration is  the perfect delivery of the message and builds to showcase Clay's gift for the "glory note." Surely, Celine Dion would give credit where credit is due. If you only hear one song on this album-let it be this one.

"Merry Christmas with Love," is Clay's trademark "angst" song. The moving story is eloquently told in a voice that may bring you to tears. May the joy of the season surround you. Merry Christmas with Love from Clay. "Another Must Listen."

"Sleigh Ride," is an upbeat tune. You can almost see Clay smiling with his eyes glistening as he sings, "Giddy Up! Giddy Up! Giddy Up! Let's Go!" Again, the accompaniment with the percussion and piano are a delightful, smile-inducing mix.

"What Are You Doing New Year's Eve?" The  accompaniment is minimal so you can appreciate the quality of Clay's voice. The Jack Pot question is, "What will Clay be doing New Year's Eve?" I believe Clay could garner more invitations than anyone on the planet this year.

Clay and his team have produced a first rate Christmas album. The classic nature of it combined with the heartwarming spirit of Clay will make it one that you will be enjoying many years from now. Now go decorate that tree!!!!!

Merry Christmas to all.

Given that Clay Aiken's success story is a little like that of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer's underdog-made-good tale, it's entirely appropriate that the AMERICAN IDOL runner-up would record a Christmas album. That MERRY CHRISTMAS WITH LOVE is so defiantly traditional just adds to the warm-and-fuzzy vibes.

With nary a hint of hip-hop or pop-punk to be found, the record is a testament to the evergreen appeal of the heavily orchestrated holiday epics of Christmas past. Aiken's bell-like voice is perfectly suited to the sweeping, old-time Disney/MGM production style here, and his evangelical Christian beliefs no doubt add to the sincerity with which he imbues these performances. Listening to the warm chestnut glow of "Sleigh Ride" or "Winter Wonderland," listeners might be forgiven for thinking they just stepped onto the set of a 1940s Bing Crosby film. Of course, Aiken can't resist adding a little of his trademark R&B spice to the eggnog, and this extra touch is what makes MERRY CHRISTMAS WITH LOVE accessible to holiday-music lovers of all inclinations.

Clay Aiken is exactly the kind of guy you'd want to bring home to mom for the holidays. So, naturally the American Idol favorite politely shows up and does what's expected of him for his Christmas disc. For classics like "O Holy Night," "Silent Night" and "Joy to the World," Aiken takes the high road, embellishing his tasteful chops with choirs, bells and so many pristine elements you'd think angels should be credited on the liner notes. Aiken's attempt to add a modern spin (the drum machine-driven "Mary Did You Know" and Celine Dion's "Don't Save It All for Christmas Day") casts a shadow on the venture, though he ultimately shines through. What a guy.

by Scott Juba
November 23, 2004

When it comes to Christmas albums, simple and standard is usually best. There is nothing worse than when artists change a traditional Christmas song in an attempt to make it their own, thereby destroying the fundamental foundation of a timeless classic. Clay Aiken clearly understands this, delivering a fine Christmas album that highlights his powerful voice without compromising the integrity of the music he’s performing.

The first two-thirds of the album are an especially strong effort, containing excellent renditions of many holiday favorites. “Hark the Herald Angels Sing” is the high point of the disc, with Aiken’s towering vocals bringing an uplifting and inspirational tone to the song.

He also impresses with “O, Holy Night”. Although it’s probably the most difficult Christmas song to perform because of its highly varied vocal range, Aiken belts it out with ease.

The album unfortunately loses traction with the non-traditional Christmas tunes, “Don’t Save It For Christmas Day” and “Merry Christmas With Love”. These songs simply have no spark, and Aiken’s delivery of the lyrics seems more manufactured than inspired. He rebounds nicely, however, in the closing song, “What Are You Doing New Year’s Eve?”, returning to a less generic style of vocal performance.

Even with its flaws, the “Claymates” of America are sure to fall in love with this album; and even non-Aiken fans will admire the sincerity and skill with which he performs most of the songs. “Merry Christmas With Love” is likely to be a welcome gift under the Christmas tree this holiday season.

Overall Grade: B

• CHRISTMAS
CLAY AIKEN

Merry Christmas With Love
RCA
** ½

American Idol's two best male vocalists (I know, neither of them won, so sue me) beat the other Idols to the record racks by releasing holiday albums. Clay Aiken, season two runner-up, and George Huff, fifth-place finalist on season three, display why so many people fell so hard for the engaging twosome.

It's all in the voice. Say all the nasty things you want about American Idol and you'd be correct, but the show does put an emphasis on singing. When you have major pop stars faking it on live TV and on the concert stage, there's something endearing about two performers who sing in tune without props.

Aiken and Huff stick to traditional Christmas material on their respective CDs with some songs overlapping. Both cover perennials O Holy Night, Silent Night, Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas and Hark! The Herald Angels Sing. Imagination isn't a strong suit.

The 12 tracks on Aiken's wholesome Merry Christmas With Love may be a bit too much eggnog in one sitting, but his strong voice is showcased here more than on last year's Measure of a Man.(snip)

Aiken, meanwhile, displays impressive vocal range on his version of O Holy Night, the standout track on both men's discs, by dipping his tenor into its lower register. On other tracks, Aiken sounds like the love child of Neil Sedaka and Celine Dion. He even covers Dion's bombastic Don't Save It All for Christmas Day, which gives him the opportunity to hold a climactic note that will still be ringing through New Year's Day.

(Achin' for more Aiken? A Clay Aiken Christmas holiday special airs Dec. 8 on NBC and arrives on DVD Dec. 14.)

RCA. 12 tracks.
Grade: C-

Pop vocalist Clay Aiken performs some of the most conventional music in the world, so these faithful renditions of ultratraditional Christmas songs (first three: "O Holy Night," "Winter Wonderland" and "Silent Night" ) make perfect sense for him. Some people will want this record as background music, and hard-core Claymates will love the unswerving earnestness. But nobody should expect surprises, rough edges, humor, wit or originality.

--- Nick Marino

The spirit that goes with Don't Save It All For Christmas Day is Clay- through and through. He lives it. He is giving and showing love in many ways, everyday.

I am trying to live by those words.

Beautifully said, LORA.   And FIE on those critics!!!

Clay, BNL Lead Xmas CDs

From "Idol" glee to a chronic tree, a holiday music wrap

 

Clay Aiken Merry Christmas With Love(RCA)
America's favorite American Idol runner-up Clay Aiken takes his second full-length bow with a collection of Christmas pop and religious standards. There's more of Aiken's intense tenor that won fans over on the show, as he takes on "Mary, Did You Know," and "The Christmas Song," at times cutting a path somewhere between Andy Williams and Josh Groban. At others though, like on "Silent Night," things sound more akin to a live recording of the TV show, as Aiken's phrasing ends up stuttered, like he's missed a line -- joining the backing choir after a verse has already started. As he hits the upbeat "Winter Wonderland," the lanky twenty-something reins things in for the finale, singing each note as perfect as if it were a Disney special. (JOLIE LASH)

"One horse open Clay"[/i] :lmao

Clay Aiken: "Merry Christmas With Love"
 From James Maguire,

Some sweet holiday music
There are two Clay Aikens on Merry Christmas With Love . There is the talented tenor, who sings a very pleasant Christmas album, rendering light-hearted and sentimental holiday favorites in fine voice. This is the Clay we hear for most of the CD -- a singer who succeeds in performing music many fans will take great pleasure in listening to as the snow falls.
The other Clay Aiken on this disc is an artist with a deeper potential. He's the singer we hear on two of the disc's tunes, "Don't Save It All For Christmas Day" and "What Are You Doing New Year's Eve?" Notice the different tone he brings to his voice on "Don't Save It" -- impassioned, intense, intimate. It's this singer who has the ability to reveal a depth of feeling that has moved millions of fans.

These two songs are, on the surface, holiday songs, but really they're songs about life. To my ears, Clay's most successful moment as an artist comes on "Don't Save It," when he sings the following lyric: "How many people are crying? / some people are dying / how many people are asking for love? / don't save it all for Christmas Day / find a way to give a little love every day." There's enormous empathy in his voice, a largeness of spirit, and it's genuine. That's the emotional gift he has that supports his strong voice. It's his real gift.

The other song that's not really a holiday song, "What Are You Doing New Year's Eve?" is something of a step back for him. It's Clay the longing loner, a mood he successfully mined for Measure of a Man. As he sings, "In case I stand one little chance / here comes the jackpot question in advance / What are you doing New Year's Eve?" He's certainly good at emoting about being hungry for romantic love -- but he himself has said he wants to put more happy songs on his next CD. And I agree. If he's going to expand himself as a singer, he needs to move away from Clay the can't-get-find love guy. That mood can be one of the colors on his palette, but there needs to be more.

But wait, this is a Christmas album. What about the Christmas music? It's some lovely stuff. On "O Holy Night" he reaches up and grabs some gorgeous notes, using his vocal power to full advantage.

He works the various moods of "Hark the Herald Angels Sing" -- soaring at times, close in at other moments -- quite nicely. "Joy To The World" is properly big and energetic, and "The Christmas Song" is sweetly nostalgic. Clay rides the rhythmic bounce of "Sleigh Ride" with real snap.

The good news about the arrangements is that they're not cluttered with too many instruments. They really put him front and center. On Measure of a Man sometimes the backing music became too much -- but these Christmas arrangements are clean and traditional. Fortunately, Clay or his producers resisted the temptations to try to make Christmas music sound "contemporary," and add some kind of cheesy beat. This is good old fashioned holidays music.

Clay Aiken``Merry Christmas With Love'' (RCA)
 
     More than almost anything he sang on ``Idol'' or his beyond-vanilla AC 2003 debut, Aiken was born to sing Christmas music. With his crystal-clear, celestial tenor he nails a neatly manicured rendition of ``O Holy Night,'' proclaims with angelic host during ``Hark the Herald Angels Sing'' and repeats the sounding joy, with the help of a choir, on ``Joy to the World.'' This is a genre that twinkles like an icicle under Aiken's natural-born earnestness, and old hands Phil Ramone and Walter Afanasieff arrange and produce with equal parts Sunday morning stateliness and cocktail fizz. It should make it a very merry Clay-mas for soccer moms everywhere.

BOSTON GLOBE REVIEW

"Aiken further transcends his "American Idol" roots with this very professional CD, assisted by two of the best producers in the business -- Phil Ramone (known for his work with Billy Joel) and Walter Afanasieff (Mariah Carey). Aiken has a pitch-perfect voice that he uses tastefully on inspired treatments of "O Holy Night" and "Silent Night." But he also touches hearts with the more obscure "Mary, Did You Know" and Celine Dion's "Don't Save It All for Christmas Day," the "It" meaning love. It's a handsome effort from this singer on the rise.

Album title and release date: Merry Christmas With Love

Why you want to buy this album: Clay's booming pipes are tailor-made for rockin' around the Christmas tree.
Perfect holiday gift for... Someone looking for the perfect CD for a holiday party
Reminds us of... Barry Manilow gone caroling
Highlight: Clay is anything but silent on the powerful "Silent Night".

Heavyweight Quebec diva Ginette Reno is to pipes as American Idol Clay Aiken is to pipecleaners, and our homegrown Hells raising Angel are more man than he'll ever be, but the vocal resemblance between the two is nonetheless striking on this, Aiken's debut holiday album. Or maybe that's just the rum'n'egg in my noggin. There are a myriad reasons why you could or should dislike Aiken and his ilk, but I say forgive him those. I say dislike him for this specifically, the kind of overstated, overblown, overearnest, overproduced and doubtless overbudget production that exceeds even the most cynical expectation. This is the Christmas music that gives Christmas music a bad name. --- 1-1/2 stars.  Jamie O'Meara

MINI REVIEW

Many artists do Christmas albums, but few voices are as suited to the classic holiday sound as Aiken's. He delivers powerful vocals on showstoppers ("O Come All Ye Faithful") and deep soul on intimate spiritual pieces ("Mary, Did You Know"). But the pop-inspired "Don't Save It All For Christmas" is this LP's "big gift."

BIRMINGHAM NEWS

Clay Aiken
Merry Christmas With Love
***1/2 stars

The boy can sing. But we knew that two years ago, when Clay Aiken just about took the "American Idol" crown away from Birmingham's Ruben Studdard.

What we didn't know was that Aiken could sing with as much emotion as Studdard. He does that with "Merry Christmas With Love," a heartfelt collection of holiday songs old and new.

Co-produced by Phil Ramone, the disc boasts appropriate orchestrations, from lush (for "O,Holy Night") to bouncy ("Sleigh Ride" and "Winter Wonderland").

The best song on the collection is "What Are You Doing New Year's Eve?", a pop song written by Frank Loesser, who wrote "Guys and Dolls" and "How to Succeeed in Business Without Really Trying".

Simon Cowell always said Aiken would wind up on Broadway. The Great White Way could do worse. ---Alec Harvey

** stars
The Claymates just made this the biggest-selling holiday album debut ever. For the rest of us, there's not much reason to acquire another set of seasonal numbers sung capably but not very compellingly. The redheaded "American Idol" runner-up has a wimpy way with a carol, hitting the notes but drably dispensing the words until "Mary, Did You Know" sounds like "Sleigh Ride" sounds like an insurance jingle. Never offensive; never persuasive, either.

"A Clay Aiken Christmas" airs at 7 p.m. Wednesday on WMAQ-Channel 5.

Darel Jevens

Clay Aiken - "Merry Christmas With Love"
(RCA)
Aiken's popularity with his loyal fans is one reason this is the top-selling holiday CD of 2004. It also hits the mark for those who want a well-sung, heartfelt collection of holiday favorites without pop gimmicks. Aiken shows off his big voice and impressive range on such favorites as "O Holy Night" and "Joy to the World."

Review - Merry Christmas With Love
 
There is popularity, and then there is acclamation. It is hard to understand how Clay Aiken lost out on the American Idol, because his legions of rabid fans are still busy casting their votes... at Christmasreviews.com! But be that as it may, Clay seems to be doing okay. Take his new Christmas album, for example. Merry Christmas with Love is an old-fashioned romantic pop record that I can appreciate even without being in the susceptible demographic. His earnest, soulful style adds gravitas to his youthful pop presence, a rare quality, and one shared only by a few, by entertainers such as Elvis Presley and Donny Osmond.

It's funny. I spend my time listening primarily to female vocalists. I don't go too far out of my way to listen to any of the young men who sing pop. But having heeded the call of his many admirers (you know who you are:), I was a bit surprised to find in Clay Aiken a singer I can listen to, relate to, and enjoy.

Aiken performs a mixed set, pretty much divided down the middle between pop tunes and sacred carols. Of the sacreds, I enjoyed his heartfelt telling of Mary Did You Know best. He captures the breathless pensiveness required for getting the most out of this song. Likewise, his easy listening sensibilities play out beautifully on What Are You Doing New Year's Eve

All in all, a fine outing from an evidently fine young man. A Top Pick!

--Richard Banks

Merry Christmas With Love
Clay Aiken

Review by Duane Wells, 365Gay.com

Clay Aiken’s voice is to Christmas music what butter is to toast…a rich and satisfying complement to a simple delight. He may not have won the competition, but American Idol Clay Aiken proves why he’s leading the pack in record sales with his first Christmas album, simply titled “Merry Christmas With Love”, which had the best-selling debut week for a Christmas album in Soundscan history.

Over the years, the best Christmas albums in my opinion have been those where the artist re-interprets classic Christmas songs without destroying the integrity of the songs by layering on trendy musical licks and rap solos. Using this as a measure, “Merry Christmas With Love” is an all out success. Rather than try to re-invent the Christmas wheel so to speak, Clay Aiken embraces traditional Christmas songs and uses his stellar voice, not studio tricks, to put his own original stamp on the classics. The result is a Christmas album that feels highly personal, rather than overly commercial. Rather than musical performances, the songs on Aiken’s album feel like sing-a-longs…that is until you attempt to actually sing along and realize that while Clay makes singing theses songs sound effortless, it is indeed not…at least not if you want to sound like him.

Aiken soars on holiday favorites like “Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas” and “O Holy Night”, on which slides up and down the musical scales of the song with the ease of a singer twice his age, as well as on a brilliant medley of “Hark The Herald Angels Sing” and “O Come All Ye Faithful”, which he breathes new life into with glittering vocals. However, nothing tops Clay on non-traditional fare like the contemporary title track “Merry Christmas With Love”, the haunting “Mary Did You Know” and his remake of Celine Dion’s “Don’t Save It All For Christmas Day” in which he sustains a note so powerful, for so long that I would challenge even super-diva Patti LaBelle to match it.

If there is one criticism that could be made of Clay’s Christmas outing it is that in some places the album is almost too safe…so bland that it borders on being forgettable. In fact I forgot that “Silent Night” and “Joy To The World” were even on the album because they sounded so familiar that I tuned them out completely. However this is a trifle, given that in the spectrum of Christmas albums, Clay Aiken has succeeded where more seasoned stars have failed. He has delivered a Christmas album that is timeless in its appeal and as such will have a long shelf life and provide it’s listeners with years of enjoyment. Crown or no crown, “Merry Christmas With Love” demonstrates that Clay Aiken is more than a pop culture phenomenon…he is the genuine article.

©365Gay.com 2004

Clay Aiken, "Merry Christmas With Love."

With his wholesome choirboy looks and angelic tenor, Aiken is tailor-made for this kind of thing. Phil Ramone's unobtrusive production gently frames Aiken's soaring vocals on standards like "O Holy Night" and "Silent Night," lets him sway gently on "Sleigh Ride" and smoothly entreat everyone to "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas." The runner-up on Season 2 of "American Idol" even manages to redeem the bombastic "Don't Save It All for Christmas Day," co-written by Celine Dion. In its first week of release, "Merry Christmas With Love" sold 270,000 copies, the biggest debut for a holiday album in the SoundScan era.

Despite the fact that he really is this generation's Barry Manilow, you can't ignore Clay Aiken's Broadway-bountiful voice. He covers the standards dutifully, so irony-free and rife with goodwill and divine purpose that you can't help but start to like this elfin nerd (if you hadn't already). He even sings Sleigh Ride with tremulous earnestness. And while he may enjoy his yuletide greetings with a generous dose of showbiz glitz, there's no faulting Aiken for his clean, unobtrusive approach to these old favourites. The choir harmonies are lovely, too. If his debut album put you off, you might just prefer this American Idol runner-up instead.

Clay Aiken, “Merry Christmas With Love.” The album gently frames Aiken’s soaring vocals on standards such as “O Holy Night” and “Silent Night,” and smoothly entreats everyone to “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.” In its first week of release, the album sold 270,000 copies, the biggest debut for a holiday album in the SoundScan era.

Clay Aiken "Merry Christmas With Love" (RCA, $18.99)

Of the more successful "American Idol" alumni, Clay Aiken has struck a nerve with vocal chops that belie an aw-shucks demeanor. And fans will likely revel in his new Christmas album, "Merry Christmas with Love." As his earlier work has shown, though, Aiken's high-register tenor soars best on songs suitable for showcasing vocal fireworks. Here, on only his second album, "Joy to the World," "The Christmas Song" and "Winter Wonderland" don't really fit thebill, though "Merry Christmas With Love" and "What Are You Doing New Year's Eve" make the case

• Clay Aiken, Merry Christmas With Love: Aiken further transcends his American Idol roots with this very professional CD. Aiken has a pitch-perfect voice that he uses tastefully on inspired treatments of O Holy Night and Silent Night. But he also touches hearts with the more obscure Mary, Did You Know and Celine Dion's Don't Save It All for Christmas Day. It's a handsome effort from this singer on the rise.

Ho ho ho or ho-hum?
December 12, 2004

HO HUM

Clay Aiken, "Merry Christmas With Love" (RCA) He performs some of the most conventional music in the world, so these faithful renditions of ultratraditional Christmas songs make perfect sense for him. Some people will want this record as background music, and hard-core Claymates will love the unswerving earnestness. But nobody should expect surprises, rough edges, wit or originality. (N.M.)

Review

American Idol ("AI") is a television show that embodies the American
Dream in many respects. In the show's second season, 50,000 hopefuls
auditioned for a slice of that dream, wanting to find acclaim and a
national audience. When I first heard about the show, I was skeptical
of the whole concept, concerned about a marketing machine that would
churn out a manufactured "Pop Idol" celebrity. The more I watched,
however, the more I became a believer. With minor exceptions, the
participants seemed to be proceeding on the power of their raw talent,
and watching these amateurs develop from week to week can be
mesmerizing.

  As an AI junkie, I will admit to being both entranced and puzzled by
Clay Aiken when he appeared on the second season in 2003, ultimately
snaring the runner-up spot (soulful Ruben Studdard came in first).
After all, here was this gawky kid, skinny as a rail and possessed with
an unruly thatch of (initially red) spiky hair, singing like an old
timer in a pop music competition. Kelly Clarkson, AI's winner from the
first season, embodied the cutesy look of a modern pop star; Aiken
definitely did not. And he was this wholesome, self-denigrating,
bashful "Aw shucks" Southern boy studying to be a special education
teacher, to boot! It seemed impossible that anyone could ever use the
words "cool" and "Clay Aiken" in the same sentence (although I just
did). The voice, of course, could not be denied--Aiken possessed an
impressive crooner's voice box that could comfortably belt out Broadway
show tunes at a moment's notice. But pop star--or even pop heartthrob?
Hard to imagine! Impressively, Aiken took many, many nasty shots from
infamous AI judge Simon Cowell throughout the competition, and Aiken
handled all criticisms like, well, a man (interesting, Aiken's first
release last fall was Measure of a Man).

  Now Aiken has released Merry Christmas With Love, a lovely, heartfelt
holiday card to his millions of adoring fans. The release definitely
plays to Aiken's strengths; this is no frivolous pop froth. Aiken sings
these Christmas classics with the gusto of a seasoned holiday music
icon, somewhat reminiscent of Sinatra or Como. Aiken is often compared
with Harry Connick, Jr., and it's a fair comparison. The arrangements
are relatively straightforward, and Aiken's stylings are old-fashioned,
and I mean that in the nicest possible way. Although Aiken's clean
voice is accompanied by considerable engineering magic and background
vocals, the production is largely restrained and tasteful. No annoying
gimmicks clutter the fine music here.

Merry Christmas With Love contains a dozen tracks, a smart blend of the
old and new. As you might expect, the best-loved holiday chestnuts are
here. The three lesser-known contemporary numbers are the title track,
Celine Dion's (co-author) "Don't Save It All For Christmas Day," and
the wonderful "Mary Did You Know?" (a personal favorite of mine!).
Interestingly, there was apparently some ongoing debate regarding the
order of selections on the CD. The album's back reflects one listing
with the caution "See Label For Sequence," and the CD's label in fact
shows the correct line-up ("Winter Wonderland" and "Sleigh Ride" are
switched). The liner notes, which contain considerable information
about each track's production and some nifty photos of Aiken, present
the songs in a third (and entirely different) order. None of this
affects the recording's quality, of course, but it is fascinating to
consider the strategies involved when stringing holiday tunes together
into an entire album.

  It is easy to see why Merry Christmas With Love is flying off the
shelves this season! Aiken does it all--he moves from intense drama
(nailing the powerful high notes in "O Holy Night") to a velvet touch
("Silent Night") to carefree crooner ("Have Yourself a Merry Little
Christmas") with ease. Aiken's genuine sincerity pervades the
production; he projects a satisfying sweetness that is neither cloying
nor overdone. You just believe that this artist cares about Christmas
and this project far more than the routine pop star who mindlessly
generates a holiday album by-the-numbers. I especially enjoyed the
simpler presentations, favoring the marvelous "Mary Did You Know,"
which exudes Aiken's passion for the season, and his easygoing "The
Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting On An Open Fire)" and "What Are You
Doing New Year's Eve," two offerings that are excellent showcases for
the artist's classic crooner capabilities.

  From my perspective, the true measure of Aiken's long-term staying
power will be the extent to which he can distance himself from his AI
roots, establishing his celebrity in his own right. Merry Christmas
With Love is definitely a step in the right direction. Cool, very cool.

  --Carol Swanson

•Clay Aiken released his Christmas CD, "Merry Christmas With Love," last month. He does well with classics like "Silent Night" and a beautiful rendition of "O, Holy Night," but my personal favorite is the powerful "Mary, Did You Know." The weaker tracks are those that are more commercial, including the title track and "Sleigh Ride." But the other songs are enough to overcome it and make this a solid offering. The album has become a top-selling holiday album and for good reason. It is one that many people will enjoy. ***

How do the new Idol CDs stack up? David Hiltbrand gives a rundown.

Clay Aiken: Merry Christmas With Love (RCA **1/2)

There are a few yucky moments ("Sleigh Ride," for one). But overall, this traditional offering of Christmas classics fits Aiken like an elf's costume, with lofty songs well-suited to his sonorous delivery. Aiken is a fine caroler, but doesn't bring anything new to the yuletide party.

The Cincinnati Post (Grade B) - "New yule CDs: Some naughty, some nice: Clay Aiken, "Merry Christmas With Love." RCA, B.
This plays as a thoroughly pleasant, unpretentious collection of holiday classics from the "American Idol 2" runner-up. Aiken is perfect for the genre. After all, he sounds (and looks) like a choirboy. The production is lush without being overdone, such as a full choir backing Aiken on a truly joyous "Joy to the World." It's back to just strings and piano on "The Christmas Song." The production, and Aiken's singing, is a little predictable; but, for most listeners, there's nothing wrong with that when it comes to the holiday standards."

Merry Christmas With Love by Clay Aiken
4 out of 5 snowflakes

Every year I buy a Christmas CD to freshen up my play list for the season.

This year I was given one as a gift, which was a holiday boon for me.
Not only did I not have to wade through the exhaustive holiday musical offerings, ranging from classical to hip hop these days, the CD I was given was unlike the many traditional “various artists” ones I normally would have purchased, thus adding something completely different to my tired collection of Brat Pack selections.

So, if you are also looking for a Christmas CD that has old-fashion charm coupled with contemporary arrangements, Clay Aiken’s “Merry Christmas With Love” uniquely fits the bill.

Filled with both holiday classics such as “Sleigh Ride” and “Joy to the World” as well as contemporary mixes of “Mary Did You Know” and “Don’t Save It All Up For Christmas”, Aiken’s “Merry Christmas With Love” nicely blends Aiken’s smooth vocals with rich orchestrated arrangements and simple piano accompaniments.
 
From its unique “Hark the Herald / O Come all Ye faithful” medley to a cool version of, “What Are You Doing New Year’s Eve?”, this CD has a lot to offer by way of Christmas music that is both traditional and modern.
Besides giving listeners a variety of Christmas tunes, the CD provides new takes on its nostalgic song list. In addition, tracks are also woven as if “Merry Christmas With Love” is telling a story.

Using his voice and unique phrasing to tell the tale, Aiken crafts a unified creative work — not just another haphazard assemblage of a Christmas tunes amassed to create additional selling opportunity for a hot artist of the day.

There is a strong sense with Aiken’s Christmas CD, that both time and thought were put into the project. Each song is linked by parallel accompaniments and Aiken’s signature sound, a combination, which propels the CD from start to end.

Now on the other hand, if you are not a fan of the “Clay” sound, this CD may not be your cup of Christmas tea.

It is Clay, Clay and more Clay!

Aiken’s CD, however, is measured and paced to suit his crisp yet relaxed style, offering listeners a mellow mix of music that makes one want to sing along just as much as it prompts to quietly listen in admiration of its clear tenor vocals.

Clay hits a high note with Merry Christmas With Love, perfectly matching song, voice and arrangement.

Give it a whirl.

It is Clay, Clay and more Clay!

Clay Aiken, "Merry Christmas With Love" - Last year's "American Idol" runner-up benefits from seasoned producers - the legendary Phil Ramone and Walter Afanasieff - and a balanced mix of secular songs and religious carols. At times, it sounds like a rush job (not surprising, given the red-haired wonder's schedule), but mostly it's an assured effort by a singer with a strong, theatrical voice who can make a song like the melodramatic "Mary Did You Know" his own. A must for the Clay-mates and a nice addition to those who like their holiday music on the easy-listening side. (Doug Pullen)

Deck the Halls and Spin Some Discs
Clay Aiken "Merry Christmas With Love"
(RCA) 2 1/2 out of 4 stars.
Whether you're a Clay Aiken fan or not, you'll be hooked with this CD. Clay Aiken has by far topped every Christmas album made. No one can touch his voice. OK, we had you there. That's not our opinion. That's the Aiken-ites raving on Amazon.com, proving that when it comes to the golden boy from "American Idol," people get a little too worked up. "Merry Christmas With Love" is a fine, middle-of-the-road Christmas record from a singer still finding his voice. Over the swelling arrangements, Aiken croons like a choir boy, e-nun-ci-a-ting every syllable and holding as many notes as he can grab onto. It's a nice voice, a pure voice -- we're not about to say no one can touch it. The song list sticks mostly to the basics -- "O Holy Night," "Silent Night," "Joy to the World" -- while adding the rare gem like "Mary, Did You Know." If you're looking for the most earnest Christmas record of the year, start with this one. (Scott Mervis)

Clay Aiken - Merry Christmas With Love
American Idol's Season 2 runner-up is jingling his way through the holiday season with an album that you should definately snap up the next time you're out doing some last-minute holiday shopping. Clay Aiken delivers a traditional, spiritual Christmas collection with his powerful vocals. Give this album a try if you want to dive straight into the Christmas spirit and warm up those nippy winter nights.

Clay Aiken - Merry Christmas With Love Fun Facts
# To promote the album, Clay is doing a 21-city tour, which began in Pasadena, California and ends on Christmas Eve in Detroit.
# The album includes a Celine Dion track.
# Clay has been honored with the title of spokesman for the 2004 U. S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots campaign.

Clay Aiken - Merry Christmas With Love Hot Tracks
# O Holy Night; Joy to the World; Winter Wonderland; The Christmas Song; Silent Night; Don't Save It All For Christmas.

Clay Aiken - Merry Christmas With Love Rating: 4 notes

Los Angeles Times Calendar Section Saturday 12/18/04
Pop Beat
"Sugarplums and Sourballs"
by Randy Lewis

** Clay Aiken, "Merry Christmas With Love" (RCA). "American Idol" singers and Christmas music go together like hot cocoa and marshmallows, and Aiken delivers the fluffiest, sweetest, whitest musical marshmallow imaginable. It's all soothing vocalizing, minimal thought required or inspired.