Artist: America Album: Holiday Harmony

Year: 2002
Duration: 0:0-1

Let's Dive into America's Holiday Harmony Album: A

The holiday season has already started, and that means it’s time to indulge in some Christmas music. One album that has always made its way into my playlist every year is America's Holiday Harmony. America is an iconic rock band known for their catchy melodies, tight harmonies, and classic songwriting. The band members, Gerry Beckley, Dewey Bunnell, and Dan Peek, first formed the band in London in 1970. America's music can be best described as a combination of folk, pop, and rock, creating a unique sound that gained them a legion of fans. Their Holiday Harmony album is no different and gives listeners a mix of classic Christmas songs and original compositions that will definitely get you in the festive spirit.
The album starts with an original composition from the band. “Winter Wonderland” is a lovely song that highlights beautiful acoustic guitar work, tight harmonies, and catchy drumming. The song sets the tone for the other original compositions in the album and sets the standard high for the rest of the album. Another original that stands out is “Christmas in California,” a west-coast take on Christmas. The guitar work and saxophone solo add to the fun and laid-back vibe of the song, making it one of my favorites.
The album also includes classic Christmas songs such as “Let it Snow,” “Silent Night,” and “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.” The band puts their spin on these traditional songs, which results in a fresh take on the Christmas sound. “The First Noel” is an excellent example of their creativity. The song is done in a lullaby-like arrangement with beautiful guitar work that makes it stand out from other versions of the song.
The most innovative part of this album is the band's original compositions. America has always been admired for their songwriting, and Holiday Harmony is no exception. Their original compositions bring a fresh perspective to the Christmas music scene. The songs don't rely on usual Christmas themes like Santa or Rudolph but instead focus on love, family, and the world's beauty during the holiday season. The songs tie into the season's themes, but the band's creativity makes them unique and worth hearing.
The album is not without its faults, however. The production is a little stale, and some songs feel rushed or underdeveloped. Some of the drumming feels muted and lacks the dynamics of the band’s earlier work. The album also ends abruptly, leaving the listener wanting more. These shortcomings, however, don't take away from the overall quality of the album and the magic of the holiday season that it captures.
In the end, America’s Holiday Harmony album is one of my favorite Christmas albums to put on during the holiday season. The band's creative interpretation of the traditional Christmas sound combined with their signature sound make for a unique experience. While the album may not be perfect, the original compositions and standout covers make it worth listening to and owning. Fans of America's earlier work and Christmas music enthusiasts should not pass up the opportunity to add this album to their holiday playlist.