David Archuleta: Song Leaks from Christmas From The Heart

“Archie’s version of ‘Ave Maria’ is to die for.”

I’ll give Archie big kudos for this’ ¦and I hope it propels him to some nice Christmas TV gigs. I just hope he refrains from doing it at a ‘holiday concert’  because I just can’t imagine it being interrupted by the squeeling of a hundred little tweenies.

Again I’ll say that Archie has a ‘place’  in the music industry but it won’t ever be in top 40 music no matter how hard jive pushes him into that arena or nor matter he himself wants to go there. His voice is made for ‘Josh Grobinesque’  material’ ¦not for teeny bopper trite.

To Archie and Jive: not every singer is made for ‘pop’  material. Change your focus and look towards the audience that really appreciates your voice and its qualities. It’s not a bad thing not to be young, current, and hip. Just remember that so many poppy teen stars end up being one hit wonders.

Very nice, Archie! Loved Ave Maria.

Tess, I think his voice is perfect for a Josh Groban-y sort of vibe, too. His voice is so pure. Of course I adore Josh Groban :)

OMG, “Ave Maria” gives me CHILL …I am going to see his Xmas concert when he comes to LA …

*Moved from headlines thread*

Good job David (A). He sounds great on those three leaked songs. jpfan, I like that duet, also. I wonder if it will be released to radio? It would do well, I think.

I just listened to Melodies of Christmas and I have to say this is complete and utter drek. David tried way to hard on composing this one…trying to take a ballady type song and rhyming the heck out of it is so sophomorish. I know he can do better…and who ever encouraged him to put this on the album needs to be shot.

I also don’t particular care for Charice’s voice (why is she “popular”, please help me out here). And both of these songs seem pretty out of place on a predominantly traditional type of Christmas album…pretty jarring!

ETA: Have yourself a Merry Little Christmas is such a Judy Garland classic that I don’t think I have ever liked anyone else covering it. Strange, that, because it is a very pretty song.

Darnit, I thought for sure I would at least like Ave Maria – but I don’t. I absolutely adored that vid of David singing at the ALMA awards – gah! What a voice! I will listen to clips of all when the album drops and see if I like any. I have a feeling that anything he sings in Spanish is going to sound better to me.

If it weren’t for MJ posting that ALMA vid here, I would have never given the kid’s music a chance. So thank you for that!

Thanks MJ and after I have listened to all I wanna say that I love them allllllllll!

I wanna hear the REST. Going back to listen some more. :) :)

I absolutely LOVE this and am excited to buy and give this album as Christmas gifts. David’s voice is so pure and heartfelt…you know that he means what he sings. Buy this album, it can be part of your Christmas collection for years to come!

Darnit, I thought for sure I would at least like Ave Maria ‘“ but I don’t.

Not to take anything away from David’s version, but years ago, I attended an X-mas Eve service with my aunt in Delaware. The choir performed an absolutely beautiful version of Ave Maria, acapella. Me — Ms. Non-Church Goer — was overcome and needed to know more about it. Where could I purchase it? I discovered that it was based upon Chanticleer’s rendition and I, subsequently, tracked that down and bought their cassette. (That’s how long ago it was. I bought a cassette. Those were the days.)

Anyway, I just looked on Youtube and found a performance of theirs singing Ave Maria. It’s just beautiful. I’ll have to look for it on Itunes now.

Chanticleer’s Ave Maria
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XVyCJlPiHFg

Ave Maria makes me cry in the best of ways.

I love the duet — David can harmonize with the best of them and I’m pleased with Charice’s vocals, too.

And I like Melodies of Christmas. Can’t wait to hear the rest of the album — Riu Riu Chiu (with David’s fluidity with Spanish pronunciation) seems promising and people who have heard the full Pat-A-Pan (with a verse in French) list it as a favorite.

To Archie and Jive: not every singer is made for ‘pop’  material. Change your focus and look towards the audience that really appreciates your voice and its qualities.

From watching the YouTubes of his concerts, I think it is very safe to say from the audience reaction in them that both the very young as well as the older set “really appreciate” his pop performances. It would be wrong to cage him exclusively into a Josh Groban genre this early in his career. He has so much growing and exploring to do. To limit him into singing just those type of songs would be so boring and career-limiting. I love both his pop music as well as his more ballady songs.

Good job David (A). He sounds great on those three leaked songs. jpfan, I like that duet, also. I wonder if it will be released to radio? It would do well, I think.

I do hope that at least one of them becomes an official release to radio. So far, I am loving “Ave Maria” the most. It is so beautifully and reverently delivered. I’ve heard that “What Child is This” is another wowser.

Oh, yeah. I’ve heard too that David’s What Child Is This is great — I think with Christmas songs, there’s just so much sentimentality attached. We have favorites from our childhoods, probably, so he may really hit with a song we love or we may prefer previously-heard versions.

I’ve heard Ave Maria only a few times, and this one hits with me. Really anticipating Silent Night, as that’s been a favorite of mine since forever.

First of all — more 19R music that isn’t packed with synth vocals. So we can hear Archie’s voice — which I love.

I really, really liked “Melodies of Christmas”. The other two less so.

IMO it’s a risk for any vocalist(s) to sing “Have Youreself a Merry Little Christmas” because no one can really sing like Judy Garland. But Charice completely killed it for me — I would have just liked to hear David sing it solo.

But “Ave Marie” just doesn’t do it for me. IMO it might have been better if they hadn’t used the classical arrangement — there are many other arrangements of this song that would have suited David’s voice and vocal style better. For example, his voice gets a bit thin on the “big” high notes around 2:19 and 2:40. JMHO but I prefer “Ave Maria” by classical tenors — like Andrea Bocelli — who can hit the high notes with power and have great articulation.

I like Pavarotti’s Ava Maria the best. I haven’t bought any Christmas albums in year, because none of them can match up to my favorites like Nat King Cole and Bing Crosby. Archie sounds good, but not enough to add to my collection.

I have managed to resist listening to any of the songs. I want to wait to hear it when I get the cd in my hands. I am very excited by all of the great comments that I have heard. I’m so excited to hear his version of Ave Maria as well as Pat-a- pan. Everyone seems to love that song.

eeek!
I am holding out so better hide away until Tuesday!
But from all the wonderful comments so I have read so far I won’t be disappointed!

I like Christmas with The Rat Pack, including songs from Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Sammy Davis, Jr.

Whew, I wouldn’t buy this cd. While I think Archie is cute and did a stupendous job with the song he sang on the ALMA awards, I love my Christmas songs and this is not the way to sing Christmas songs. Ave Maria is a beautiful song and too many have sang it beautifuly. His version was mediocre at best. Give me Sarah Brightman or Andrea Bocelli or Il Divo for that matter or even Josh Groban, but Archie, please.!!!!!!!!!!!

kimk, we can be two of the few that have held out.

I just listened to Melodies of Christmas and I have to say this is complete and utter drek. David tried way to hard on composing this one’ ¦

It’s interesting that you think this. I understand from internet comments, that this is the last song on the CD. I took it to be a way to tie together all of the previous songs and make it cohesive. But I’m an album kind of gal and look at the big picture of how the songs work together, and I think this song works great for that purpose.

Keep in mind people this is not the HQ leak I have heard out there. I have a link to a much HQ sound on his album. I would not pass judgement on David until you have heard the whole CD with a >HQ. The symphony add’s a whole new level to his songs and his voice is so pure in tone, I have heard the whole album and I am totally gobsmacked by it all, it was produced with David’s voice in mind at all times. They did an outstanding job with this album :D

I’ve listened to the full versions of all the songs….. don’t count it out until you have heard them all in full….just saying… you just may be very surprised…but to each his own…. I am not a Josh Groban fan.. not saying he doesn’t have a great voice, but his style is not for me…and his music doesn’t move me like David’s does

I love David’s version of Ave Maria….it’s stunning !!

the Spanish song…… Riu Riu Chiu is one of my favs ….it’s really amazing and powerful…..and before David……I had never heard this song before

What Child Is This is also a top fav…as is O Holy Night, Silent Night…and Joy To The World has quite a stunner for the ending….

Pat A Pan is a very cool song… not what I expected at all….

Angels We Have Heard On High and O Come All Ye Faithful are beautiful…

so, give it a whirl on Tues… :)

I love his voice and the way it goes right to the heart. One of the songs I am looking forward to hearing again (because for awhile the other day the whole cd was up for streaming before it was pulled) and I loved a song called Pat-a-Pan. Started out in French and it was great! I have now listened to Ave Maria about 15 times and I think he did a beautiful job. A beautiful song sung with a voice and spirit that connects with me. There is room for the beauty of his voice and his music among all the other voices that touch my heart. This isn’t about a competition of voices, but the beauty of his voice in this song and how it makes me feel in the moment of hearing it.

The songs sound better whole than when listening to the 30 seconds snippets. I thought the album is going to be a complete disaster after listening to the snippets, but this isn’t too bad. I think the problem is that Archie’s voice doesn’t sound great in his lower to middle register (in fact he can sound breathy and wheezy) which is what is what’s mostly heard in the snippets, but his voice is beautiful in the higher range. I don’t think the songs he chose make the best use of his voice, I’m sure there are many far better Christmas songs he could have chosen. I do remember his very fine rendition of Be Still My Soul, and that’s the kind of songs he should record if he is to do another album like this.

His voice is made for ‘Josh Grobinesque’  material’ ¦not for teeny bopper trite.

Not sure what you meant by that. Archie does perfectly well in the teeny bopper pop market, while Josh Groban sings in those semi-operatic pop kind of style which Archie can’t do. What Josh Groban do isn’t great art anyway, more of the the kind of middle-brow stuff for middle-class middle-age ladies, mostly sentimental mush. Archie’s is of course sentimental mush aimed at the younger market, but he is still young, he should wait for a couple more years before going for the older audience.

Just want to add that the album is diverse enough that you shouldn’t make your judgment on these 3. I quite like the duet and hope I hear that on the radio, Ave Maria is good, but doesn’t hold a candle to the other traditional songs he does on the album and Melodies of Christmas – somewhat catchy fluff. Plus, David was far from the primary writer on that song. His fans all love it because they think it was his creation so it would be hard to get an honest opinion from them. Sophomorish rhyming is an honest assessment.

Whoah, what is this? A gathering of people born in the early 1900s? LOL

I was just wondering that myself ilovemj. I liked the duet very much but could do without the Melodies of Christmas song. Ave Maria sounded very good to me, of course not as good as Andrea Bocelli. After all, who is as good? I have purchased many contemporary Christmas albums and many artists have included Ave Maria. Among contemporaries, David’s version sounded mighty good to me.

lol elle, yeah not the primary writer, I like MOC enough its kinda fun and stuff. I like the music part it the most, not loving the background singers though, and yeah the lyrics are kinda cheesy… but hey whats xmas without some cheesy lyrics… lol Im a stan, but thats my opinion. lol

I think the duet sounds good, they seem to blend well at least to me. I think it would do well on radio xmas playlists. Im not a fan of charice but at the same im not a nonfan either lol So her singing on it doesnt really bother me that much. Sure it would be cool to hear him sing it alone, but I like the duet fine enough. haha

Ave maria, this isnt something I normally listen to at xmas time and ive only probably heard it a few times so im not all that familiar with it. I think he does a really nice job with it and it sounds good to me.

But I think im more of a fan of certain songs more so than who sings them. As long as it sounds good Im cool with it. One of my fav songs is O Come All Ye Faithful and as simple as it is I do really like Joy To The World as well. I dont usually try comparing different people singing xmas songs. I will say im not a fan of the more operatic sounding singers, not a specific one but the general sound. lol

ETA: and yeah these are obviously lower quality versions… most noticable on ave maria for me

i just listened to those songs. Thanks MJ! They’re much better than snippets. I’m looking forward to get full songs. I like traditional Christmas songs, so I’ll buy David’s CD. My fav is Ave Maria. I’ll play this song in my church. :D

Okay, I am a huge fan of Christmas music and own tons of it, so I definitely am curious about this since Archuleta is not my thing, but he has a pleasant voice.

Didn’t like Melodies of Christmas at all, but did enjoy his version of Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas (I have so many versions of this song).

Niiiice! I do believe I am going to buy this!

This CD is going to be a nice addition to my Christmas music collection, I love David’s voice.

Wow, Ave Maria is gorgeous. Really looking forward to Tuesday. :)

Nothing says “Christmas on a cruise ship” like cheesy synth drums.

Such a pure angel voice, LOVE!

Sorry, not a gathering of people who lived in the early 1900′s, just some people who have heard those songs sung a lot better.

I want Pat-A-Pan sent to radio. I think it’s awesome and cool sounding and it’s the most uptempo song on this CD.

I could see the duet with Charice getting some attention as well.

I think MOC is such a cute original song to tie the album together. Basically a Christmas song about the greatness of other Christmas songs. It even gives some shoutouts. lol

Love all of the traditional songs I’ve heard so far. David’s Ave Maria is very beautiful. He sings in four languages on this CD and they all sound lovely to me. He’s David with everything that makes his voice unique. He’s not trying to be Bocelli or Groban. We already have them. What would be the point? I love his own take on these Christmas classics and I’m sure many will appreciate it, even if it’s not the greatest Xmas album of all time, which is subjective anyway. For those of us who are moved by his voice and love Christmas music, this is quite a treat from him to us for the Holiday season. Works for me. :)

Well said, serenade.

And those of you who are mentioning Pat-A-Pan are making me really want to skip through the next three days until Tuesday, so I can hear.

I’ve liked some of Archie’s songs in the past, but these are mediocre offerings. His modern pop songs are much more suited to him, I think.

His Ave Maria gives the sense of someone much too young singing the notes of a song rather than the lyrics. The phrasing is decent, but precise, without the control of dynamics that the song demands. His timbre lacks the richness necessary to really feel the passion you’d expect on a vocalist for this song.

The other songs suffer the same perceived lack of maturity. If you hear them without thinking that “hey, this is David Archuleta and I like him”, then the vocal lines are really too generic and too young. A child’s voice would be cute, and an adult’s voice would be richer (more meaningful), but these tracks are hard to listen to. (Although I have to admit Charice does have a surprisingly mature take on “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.”) This album is definitely a pass for me, and I’m not opposed to Christmas albums. (I own 4 I think.)

I’m hoping his lower register will become less breathy and become more full and strong as time goes by, because once he gets past the first part of of these songs and starts to build them and then goes full force, his voice becomes so distinctive, and sooo very powerful. Anyway, I really enjoy watching this young man’s career unfold and will definitely buy this Christmas CD. I like the mix and how it’s presented. He’s done some serious work on this one imo, and I’m impressed.

mikey, might want to keep in mind that these are lq versions of the songs, especially ave maria. Some of the richness in these clips doesnt come through.

And those of you who are mentioning Pat-A-Pan are making me really want to skip through the next three days until Tuesday, so I can hear.

I listened to a stream of it and it’s better than I expected even though I already liked the snippet.

Funny you say that, mikeyb, but my perception of David singing Ave Maria is quite the opposite. Could be that this version at MJs isn’t the full sound that I heard on another site, but in some passages of Ave Maria I am seriously brought to tears by David’s interpretation. I didn’t know that song well. I didn’t expect to be affected by it at all.

The low res version of Ave Maria above sounds terrible.

Try the high res stream…

http://community.charicemania.com/_Ave-Maria-David-Archuleta/audio/567874/82126.html

Mucho better…

Gah! Love it! Can’t wait until Tuesday.

ETA:

And the duet…

http://community.charicemania.com/_Have-Yourself-a-Merry-Little-/audio/567415/82126.html?b=

Pat-a-pan seems to generally be one of the favorite, if not the favorite songs on the album. I’m really interested in hearing it. I have no clue what it sounds like. I didn’t even want to hear any versions of it because I wanted to be surprised.

I’ve heard him described many ways, but never as someone with a “young” sounding voice. I’m pretty sure if you didn’t know who he was and heard him sing, you would assume he was much older than 18.

I’m glad he didn’t feel the need to try and copy other artists in these arrangements. I, for one, don’t like the operatic singing. He’s just David. I’m happy that they didn’t feel the need to process his voice. I think it sounds and feels like him, so I say job well done.

A lot of these are weighty songs, very. Not many singers could take these on at such a young age (18). Bravo David!

This is so not my kind of music. I thought I’d probably like it, but I’m still convinced that the 4 albums I listen to are the best ever (for me). Good luck to Archuleta on his Christmas album.

I’ve heard him described many ways, but never as someone with a ‘young’  sounding voice. I’m pretty sure if you didn’t know who he was and heard him sing, you would assume he was much older than 18.

Same here. I am honestly so confused by that pov, out of all the rest, I can’t even debate it. I never knew only a certain “type” of voice should record Christmas songs. Sounds like that would be incredibly restrictive and boring.

http://www.amazon.com/Come-Ring-Those-Bells-Tornquist/dp/B000LT10X6/ref=pd_sim_m_2

Evie was only 16 when she recorded this album, and it remains one of my favorites in my Christmas album collection. As they say, different strokes for different folks, lol

“Same here. I am honestly so confused by that pov, out of all the rest, I can’t even debate it. I never knew only a certain ‘type’  of voice should record Christmas songs. Sounds like that would be incredibly restrictive and boring”

if only certain types are supposed to record xmas songs… then we wouldnt be getting a ‘lovely’ xmas cd from bob dylan……

Thanks for the links, JRB5776. I’ve died and gone to heaven!

http://community.charicemania.com/_Ave-Maria-David-Archuleta/audio/567874/82126.html

http://community.charicemania.com/_Have-Yourself-a-Merry-Little-/audio/567415/82126.html?b=

uh oh, Frog. heeee!

lol jrb…

Pat-a-pan seems to generally be one of the favorite, if not the favorite songs on the album. I’m really interested in hearing it. I have no clue what it sounds like. I didn’t even want to hear any versions of it because I wanted to be surprised.

It is one of my favorites for sure but I think there will be a lot to choose from for me. I’ve only allowed myself to hear five full versions of the songs so far. I just think in terms of what might fit on radio during the Holiday season, it could have a shot because it’s upbeat, not as well-known as some of the others and it has a more contemporary arrangement and I just love how it sounds. So it gets my vote, for what it’s worth. lol

f only certain types are supposed to record xmas songs’ ¦ then we wouldnt be getting a ‘lovely’ xmas cd from bob dylan’ ¦’ ¦

Absolutely true. Bob Dylan will do great but he’s certainly not everyone’s cup of tea and neither is he even trying to sound like one of those classical singers. It’s all good.

Well, I gotta say, I’m sold. I love Ave Maria. It’s absolutely beautiful… I haven’t really listened to many other versions of it, but I am familiar with it as my school choir did it, eons ago. Have the people criticizing it here listened to the entire thing? I am thinking the answer is no. I am looking forward to buying his album and checking it out. I am an open-minded music lover and am sure the album quality will be better than what is posted here. I just hope I don’t pass out when I get my first listen b/c I unexpectedly had chills listening to the poor quality of Ave Maria here.

As a lurker for a time and now getting up my courage to post, I must say I love the variety of comments here. I enjoy reading from those who have said in the past that David is singing young pop and should not, now they find he is singing songs too mature for his voice on this Christmas album. I love Christmas music and have everything from Nat King Cole to Barenaked Ladies and can appreciate each one on its’ own merits.

Didn’t read all the comments…

But I agree that the “only certain types of voices sing holiday music” sentiment sounds a little confining for, you know, art… LOL And if that were true I’d not have my all time fav go-to Jackson 5 Christmas album to enjoy each year, to say nothing of my Randy Travis, Elvis, Narada, Mariah, Billboard’s Favorites, and Disney’s Merry Little Christmas albums, to name a few. :-)

Disclaimers: Total sucker for Christmas music, and I do mean TOTAL (as evidenced by partial list above.) Not an Archuleta fan.

Thoroughly enjoyed “Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas.” Did not like his “Ave Maria.” And “Melodies…” was fine, and it grew on me as I liked the end better than the lower paced/keyed beginning, but he did sound a little breathy. Sucker that I am though, I would like to hear more of the tracks, and I do hope he does really well with this album. He should.

if only certain types are supposed to record xmas songs’ ¦ then we wouldnt be getting a ‘lovely’ xmas cd from bob dylan’ ¦’ ¦

I guess Mr. Dylan didn’t get the memo either.

I think of course, that everyone is going to have their own opinion of certain songs and certain singers, but I did hear the whole album and I honestly think if people give the whole thing a listen and an open mind you will find at least a few that you like.

Ave Maria, if you hear it in HQ, I do agree it will be a totally different experience. Richer sounding. The two higher notes are the power notes for me that blew me away. It is my absolute favorite out of all 13 songs. It literally had me in tears. I think maybe, because it is operatic sounding that it’s not everyone’s cup of tea? To me, it was beautiful.

I love Christmas music in general and I think that also might play a part for those that don’t like it so much? Just my opinion. Some people just don’t like holiday music.

Either way, I think David is a VERY gifted singer and the way these songs were arranged, the way he sang them, and the variety of the songs (French, Spanish, latin, an original contemporary song, a duet etc.) are great! At least give the whole thing a listen and give it a chance before you make up your mind.

Being from Germany, I had the privilege of acquiring the mp3 of the Christmas album and these recordings don’t do it justice at all! Europeans tend to look at the whole picture and we don’t restrict artists into one genre so you may want to broaden your minds a bit! This artist did an incredible job of Ave Maria in Latin, Pit A Pan in French and Rui Rui Chu in Spanish! This takes talent! And he’s only 18? This is true talent for a young teen to take on these classics!

*sets down cane and picks up ear trumpet*
Hmm…Nope, David doesn’t sound like Ol’ Bing or Judy. Thank goodness
because then he would be skewered for being a copycat.

Then again, I’m a hypocrite because I was disappointed that Elliott
didn’t do Madonna’s version of Santa Baby on his cd.

^^ That could have been epic… lol

LCT so cool you got to download it already

I listened to the full songs yesterday and i must say ” bravo” david and to all the people involved in the production of the christmas fr the heart cd.from joy to the world up to the last song melodies of christmas…they are all exquisite,heartfelt and excellent renditions…no copy cat here bec it’s simply david.the arrangement are superb,david’s vocal is front and center and the instruments or music background are very appropriate for all the songs in the album.it was well produced and the most impt thing is how the songs and his voice touched my heart.i am 101% satisfied with this album. Thank you david bec for once i could really say my christmas this year will be more merry and meaningful bec of your gift to us…your pure and angelic voice….no one can compare to you bec you’re simply david…bravo!!!

That Ave Maria was VERY NICE indeed! And the other two sounded great as well. Way to go, Archuleta!

^^^ I know. I’m so jealous of the Europeans right now. haha!

They seem to really love it. They are loving the Ave Maria and a lot of the classical pieces underlying the melodies of the songs. Yet, also the contemporary touches.

I wanna hear the whole thing NOW! Wahhhh. *pity party at my house*

I’ll say that Archie has a ‘place’  in the music industry but it won’t ever be in top 40 music no matter how hard jive pushes him into that arena or nor matter he himself wants to go there. His voice is made for ‘Josh Grobinesque’  material’ ¦not for teeny bopper trite.

Well, you know that he has the almost-two-platinum smash hit pop song in top 40, right? He is in Nashville working on his second album to write songs now, and you will be surprised by what he can do. His fans who thought they knew him well have been surprised by his different side of singing abilities.

If you go to his concerts, there are plenty of people of all ages who love his voice singing pop, pop/rock, R&B, Christmas songs, Spanish songs etc. He even sang a little bit of Kanye’s Love Lockdown in an interview with Z100 and it was so smooooth and good !!

I loved all 3 songs that I heard here (Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas with Charice my favorite) and will definitely buy this Christmas Album. I love Davids voice on it (and Charice). He keeps it Traditional but at the same time with a fresh/young perspective. To me this is what Christmas music is all about. Great job Archie.

I;ve been lucky enough to hear David Archuleta sing LIVE. i know he does ffine with Pop and I listen daily to his POP album. I love his voice and ability to express emtoion in his songs. I love what I;ve heard of his Christmas album. I’m grateful that I can listen without trying to compare him to anyone else. I’ve already ordered 10 albums knowing he would do well after hearing him sing christmas songs accapella last year at the jingle balls. (One for me and others for gifts) I’m sorry that these leaked songs have been posted because it only encourages illegal downloads. I’m sad for listeners that are looking for the negative!! Serenity prayer comes in handy. Blessings!!and Happy Holidays!!!

So…because he is no Andrea Bocelli, Pavarotti, Nat, Bing, Garland, or Il Divo he can not BUY a break from some of you people? He is an 18 year old making his first Christmas album and from hearing it all the way through I truly believe it will stand the test of time. Some of it is fun, some of it is heart felt, and some of it is incredibly, entrancingly beautiful. He is what he is and he is uniquely wonderful in his own right.

I think for some, David’s voice is like a tree that falls in a forest. If no one is there to hear, does it make a sound?

He who has ears to hear, let him hear.

Thanks for posting, mj.

JRB,

I am listening to AVE MARIA in the version you mentioned and it’s beautiful. He sings in Spanish, French, Latin and what else? At 18, he showed the ability to produce a pop album and Christmas album (as he gets older, he can produce another Christmas album with different songs or productions).

Also folks are anticipating a Spanish album like Christina Aguilera did and we all were surprised by his version of Contigo en la distancia. We also know that he is good at patriotic songs like America the beautiful, National Anthem, God bless America etc. He is also one of the best pitch perfect Acapella singers.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=43PwTuuIeNE

We are talking about the possibilities in store for this young man for years to come.

He sings in Spanish, French, Latin and what else?

English. LOL

David’s Ave Maria version is Gounod’s not Schubert’s which is more popular with operatic voice, including Bocelli. Anyway I love David’s version I am moved everytime I listen.

How did a Christmas album get so controversial? LOL

It’s Idol and it’s Archie? lol

I love Archie as a person. I thought Crush was a perfect catchy, Top 40′s pop song.

For me, I prefer listening to Josh Groban’s voice singing the Christmas classics. Noel was a lovely album. Sorry, Archie fans. But even if I won’t be buying, I’ll still be rooting for him to do well. ‘Cause he’s a great kid and his tweets are hysterical!

How can Christmas music be controversial? It can be anything from the Chipmunks to Josh Groban. I like the duet with Charice and hope they do it on Oprah. And I bet Bob Dylan’s Christmas album will be great too.

“How did a Christmas album get so controversial? LOL”

thats what i wanna know LOL
—–

I like the chipmunks!! All i want is a hula hoooopp

“All i want is a hula hoooopp”

I’ll take the album now, please….

and a slinky…a real one….not the plastic ones. heh

bummer. i’m disappointed. I’m not a DA fan but I love this kids voice and was looking forward to a Christmas album from him. Unfortunately, I’ve never liked Ave Maria and he doesn’t change that. Melodies of Christmas is pop sounding and that doesn’t work as Christmas music for me. I love both his and Charice’s voices on Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas but their voices don’t mesh well together and there’s something that just sounds “off” about the whole tune, although I can’t figure out what it is that bugs me. Ah well, guess I’ll just keep on the look out for my next Christmas album purchase….although I’m sure when the whole album comes out, I’ll still be checking out the rest of the tunes in the hopes of finding the next beloved Christmas tune to add to my house mix.

I thought David’s rendition of ‘Ave Maria’ was beautiful! It’s one of my favorite hymns. If I don’t like a single other song on the album, I’m buying it simply because of ‘Ave Maria’.

His Avà ¨ Maria is stunning in both the instrumentation and vocals. I loved how his Spanish accent, which we rarely hear, bled through on the Latin words.

This song always is emotional for me. It’s been sung at every Catholic funeral I’ve ever attended. He did it justice.

I would really love if someday Archie and Allison did a Spanish language album of both classic and modern songs.

Oh, and I’m really looking forward to a Bob Dylan Christmas album.

Ave Maria was outstanding and I really liked “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” too. Very nice! Thanks for posting these MJ.

How did a Christmas album get so controversial?

Good question. LOL

I think the songs chosen for this Christmas album were very ambitious.He sure has grown alot since idol days.I would think initial sales for this album will be mediocre…unless Jive gets some promos.There is a small window to sell this type of music obviously.It’s out early and i hope sales increase as the holiday approaches.I own many holiday albums and I can’t wait to have this one on repeat throughout the season.Great job,David!!

OMG!!!!

AVE MARIA is so beautiful, I had tears in my eyes. At the end when Archie said AMEN, tears just flows.

I may have judged the album too soon and thought it’s a disappointment but
hearing the full songs, I changed my mind. This is stunning!!

The duet is pretty. The original song sounds out of place with the traditional songs but not too bad.

Love what I heard so far.

I love both his and Charice’s voices on Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas but their voices don’t mesh well together and there’s something that just sounds ‘off’  about the whole tune, although I can’t figure out what it is that bugs me.

I really disagree. I think the voices mix well–his is a little stronger than hers, which is obvious during the chorus when he’s singing harmony, but it isn’t bad and the tones are good together. I really don’t like melisma at all, and there’s a lot of it from both singers in that song. So I don’t really love that at all.

Any speculation about the leak? Market testing?

Melodies of Christmas–a little lame on the lyrics but not bad . . . until the background vocals kick in on the chorus and the listener is sent on a time warp back to the Carpenters in the 1970s.

I really like these songs. I think they are actually each quite different in style — the first poppy, the second traditional and the third classic. He does well with all three styles. The duet with Charice is fantastic. I was a bit concerned that he would not be able keep up with her vocals (since everyone seems to think she is the next Celine or Whitney) but he totally does. They both have beautiful voices and I would love to hear them do a pop duet. I think this album will really help introduce David to a wider audience and an overseas audience. I know that Jive wants to make David a Top 40 artist — which they did with Crush — but Cook has shown that success on the AC and Hot AC stations can translate into albums sales. Hopefully this album will help David get some exposure on those stations.

David has the voice of 10,000 angels!!! Ava Maria is beautiful!!

Kitwana – I haven’t heard all the songs yet, but based on the snippets I think What Child Is This has a decidedly Celtic feel to it. And supposedly one of the songs has a very Gospel choir type belting at the end.

Lots of variety in style and something for everyone might be what they were going for.

I really don’t like melisma at all, and there’s a lot of it from both singers in that song.

hmm. Maybe that’s it. I don’t object to melisma in general but I think I tend to like it more in power vocals as a big dramatic showy thing (I like it best in rock music). Otherwise, a little does go a long way. Thanks for pointing it out. I really enjoy figuring out why something may or may not appeal to me.

Now, everyone is talking about Pat A Pan. Hmmm… Someone in Europe posted the whole album at a fansite, then pulled it off because of possible illegal downloading. Dang it!!

I haven’t pre-ordered it from Amazon because i wanted to grab it on the release day, next Tuesday at Walmart. But I am concerned that they don’t have enough copies just like last year. Stores in my town didn’t have enough of them on their shelves. JIVE doesn’t ship much initially!!

“Any speculation about the leak? Market testing?”

its already available in germany and italy digitally(and luxembourg and the netherlands) lol

Thats why the leak

Starting with the bad, I don’t like MOC. I think I had read they could send that song for radio, but I doubt that would get any airplay (I’m talking about AC). I think it’s really a mess of a song that it’s not even memorable and doesn’t have a good melody at all, which is kinda of ironic, given the title.

But I love HYAMLC. I was not familiar with that girl’s voice but I thing she sounds great. I was expecting her to sound younger, but she doesn’t. It’s a song that I can imagine being played in a Christmas movie. LOL I think they do a good job there.
Ave Maria, he does a good job with it, but the choir, the darkness of it, the latin… I just don’t like that song at all, so medieval lol I really have no plans to listen to that one again. It’s a good one to show the strength of his voice, even though I’m not a fan of the high register in some parts. I don’t like the “Maria” parts.

Now, where can I get Pat A Pan?! That’s the one I want to hear, the snippet sounds so fun.

I think David’s voice fits beautifully with Ava Maria. I listen to his voice realizing it’s still young. His lower registers are still not to their peak, and knowing that I don’t expect it! So, I appreciate and glory on the high notes that 9 out of 10 older lower register male singers can no longer get to. For that, I prefer David’s voice in Ava Maria. Because it has those high notes and that is his forte!

Now, Melodies of Christmas,,, a few of the words are cheesy, but that song is so so catchy. i heard it only twice yesterday and it is running through my head non stop. Really! And not on purpose. It’s just there. I love love the background vocals in that song, actually! The little songs of Christmas in it is quite original. I’ve not heard a song like that.

The duet with Charice. Actually, I didn’t like the two of them separated as much as the harmonizing parts, except I loved the ending.. Her voice is so unique and his seems a little too high for hers. It was almost like they are too much alike.
I think David’s voice would do so wonderfully with a more raspier female voice. His smoothness with a rougher female voice. I’m stuck with what female voices are like this, but I just think he needs a diverse voice from his for a female vocal duet.

I have only listened to the charice site and FOD site recordings. So, these are not the original I’ve heard.

Ok, so I read leome’s critique after I submitted mine and they are comlete opposite reviews. This is frustrating when two different people see things completely different.
I loved the higher registers of Ava Maria by David.
And Leome didn’t. I found MOC so catchy without even trying to make it catchy. And Leome found complete opposite.
And then I find Ava Maria uplifting and angelic and leome finds it dark.
Gah!

Ah, I love Ave Maria. I prefer Schubert’s version, but I love this one also.

I can’t wait to hear Pat A Pan either! The two different snippets combined are so intriguing and the reviews from those who’ve heard it is A+.

I listen to mostly pop, though and leome listens to ac. That could be the different view points.

I am a Josh Groban fan and have every album he has produced. But honestly, Noel, is just plain to me except I’ll be home for Christmas. I’ll be home for Christmas is a tear jerking song because it features military soldiers’ messages in the song which was made a couple of years ago when the war broke out. Other songs on the album are just ok. I still prefer his first album.

David’s album has some songs I have never heard of in my life and most of songs have twisted versions of classical songs. We buy a Christmas album and Christmas book EVERY year for our family, and this year, it is my turn to pick one. Everyone in my family knows whose album I am getting. hehe.

Pat-a-pan is cool

I listen to mostly pop, though and leome listens to ac. That could be the different view points.

LOL Do I? Well, I don’t. I don’t listen to mostly pop or ac. eh!

Actually, I find MOC to be more AC than pop, I just said it may not get airplay there because of the last part of the song, I don’t know if it’s radio friendly, no matter the format, it’s really repetitive at the end. But I don’t find that song that pop.

Ok, so I read leome’s critique after I submitted mine and they are comlete opposite reviews.

See, that’s why the world doesn’t fall. We all go to different sides. ;)

Pat-a-pan is cool

It sounds like it.

I guess knowing David ,which most of America does, you know that he does not try to overdo or take away from the simplicity of a song. As I listen to his voice, I do feel his spirit in each song. His spirit is what I feel and find very attractive and that is what I allow when I listen to his voice in these songs. It is very evident in these songs. But, I’m not listening technically as much as in the spirit.
Sorry, but that’s alot of the intention with these songs.

Not a David Archuleta fan BUT this version of Ave Maria is beautiful !!

I really disliked all three of those tracks. I am, to put it mildly, not a Christian and yet inexplicably I adore xmas music. Have since I was a kid and singing it in school and to this day I love singing and hearing good xmas music. However none of these tracks would do it for me. The least cheesy/generic one was Ave Marie, but it doesn’t come even close to touching my fave Ave Maria is with Kathleen Battle and Christopher Parkening. Ahh Christopher Parkening…student of the sublime Andre Segovia and while Kathleen Battle doesn’t have the strongest voice, she does very well with this piece.

I’ve never heard the Melodies of Christmas, is it new? I didn’t like it, sad to say, very much tripe to me. I couldnt listen to it all the way through, so bad with the generic instrumentation. Have Youself a Merry Little Christmas is a song I know and love, however, and ohh yeah no here. My fave with that song has to be Judy Garland. So not like I don’t get the cheese factor of the song, but this version is still too much for me.

That being said, hope this album is a success for Archie, he seems like a really nice kid.

And with Ava Maria, David’s voice matches with the male choir background, I think. He has sung with choirs like this in past as a soloist.

I like Ave Maria, like how it’s understated and not overwrought. The other two, thumbs down, but if I like a couple of songs I’ll be happy.

truthiness, Kathleen Battle, well that is opera and I would not even compare David and her. I would hope your not judging him compared to that? Not even the same genre. So, that being said, there’s no reason to compare those two. But, if that is what type of album you’re looking for, I can see why you wouldn’t want to purchase.
I’m looking for a different angle with David’s album, and knowing his voice, it all fits right along with what style so many of us love with his voice.

I love David’s voice. So I know I’ll love the album. Having said that, I don’t expect two of these tracks to rank among my favorites, those being HYSAMLC and MOC. I love HYSAMLC but would have preferred to have just heard David sing it. But, Charice and David do a lovely job. I like MOC more than I was expecting, but for me, David’s voice on some of the other traditional songs are going to be the ones I have on repeat this holiday season.

I’ve heard the snippets and there are a few versions of some of the songs floating around the internet. As others have said, the quality varies greatly–these aren’t so great. I love David’s Ave Maria. As a Catholic, I’ve heard it countless times. David’s is very heartfelt. Is it operatic? No. But it’s sensitive and beautiful. And that is more than good enough for me. MMV, but David just has an emotional quality to his voice that takes certain songs to a different level and makes them very special. Again, for me.

I’m especially looking forward to O Holy Night, Silent Night, O Come All Ye Faithful, Riu Riu Chu and Pat a Pan.

I will just say I do like most of the other songs better than the 3 put up here.. lol Just saying… so dont judge the whole thing on these 3. Though theres not a song i hate at all.

I’m pretty sure What Child Is This is gonna kill me. Nice to have met you all.

Oh yes! What Child Is This!! I forgot about that one. Yes, add that to my list of favorites. :)

I’m anxious to hear What Child Is This also. I understand when he was recording it and he had finished it and while still in the studio, they asked him to immediately sing it again just for them (those in the session) because they were so moved by it.

Yeah, Judy, evidently the producers/arrangers were incredibly moved. Can’t wait to hear it.

David’s at the Grand Ole Opry tonight. Man, I’m jealous. I’ve always wanted to go there.

Wow, they called David up on stage at the Opry!! And made an announcement about his album. cool!

I loved David on the show, I liked his debut cd, I especially loved the songs he penned himself. I don’t really like xmas music, and never puchase it. Well I did buy a bootleg copy of The Temptations Silent Night eons ago, but that doesn’t really count…anywho I will buy this just because of Ave Maria. It is stunning, and heartfelt. Just because David does this so well, does not preclude him from being a pop mainstay as well. It could very well happen, I think he is perfectly staged to have a very lucrative pop career. Truthfully Groban is pop too isn’t he? Just sayin’.

For those who a pulling out the originals or covers that are better, what is the point? It’s really about personal preference, not everyone is going to feel the same way. I think young people will and should always reinterpret classic music, that is one of the surest ways to insure the music will continue, and be passed on to the next generation. Yep, Garland, Cosby, and Cole might have done it better, or first, but I doubt if many young people are gonna be checking them out on Youtube, unless they hear David do it first. So it’s really a win/win for everyone. I don’t get this comparison for comparison’s sake.

For those who a pulling out the originals or covers that are better, what is the point?

I didn’t get the point of that either, abbysee. That really wowed me.

Ok, I read all of the comments before I listened to the clips. First I must say that these are obviously of inferior quality and I look forward to listening to HQ versions.

I expected the worst from MOC, but I loved it. It is happy and a great way to express in a pop tune how we feel about the traditional melodies of music.

I like Charise, who was made most famous by being on the Oprah show. I would love to see these two sing it on her Christmas show. It is an old song, sung beautifully as a duet.

Ave Maria is a great song, sung often as a heavy classical or operatic piece. I could very well see the kids at my school, many who are low income and come from troubled homes and who would NEVER listen to opera, listening to this classic in this less Operatic format by a young person and loving it.

I have always loved “Pat a pan” and really look forward to hearing it and the rest of the album.

Thanks for posting these MJ.

I just listened to Ave Maria on youtube (Full CD Quality) and it is just beautiful!

abbysee
October 10, 2009 at 11:04 pm …

Actually, fill in the blank sang it better is a valid statement because the industry the Idols are in is about making an impact, and part of that impact is to make people forget, if just for a moment, the person who the listener thinks provided a “perfect” rendition of their favorite song. It’s a lot easier to say so and so did this tremendous performance and I don’t think this person, IMO, matched that.

Up to this point in time I don’t think anyone has outperformed Judy Garland’s original of Have Youself a Merry Little Christmas and there have been multiple renditions of that song…Christine Aguilera doing one hell of a good job. So, until someone, Archie included, makes me forget Judy’s rendition then it isn’t “up to snuff” for me. It may be nice, and sweet and pretty but it isn’t the best and I wouldn’t put it in my rotation of Christmas songs. And I think that is how a lot of people think. If David is going to perform it he will be compared…that is the nature of the business…and the comparisons, however obtuse are legit.

Well, I don’t think anyone will ever compare to or top Garlands’ Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas–no argument there. Nor do I think anyone can probably compare to or top Lennon’s Imagine. But that doesn’t mean others can’t and shouldn’t cover the songs. And though no covers will EVER top the originals, that doesn’t mean some people won’t enjoy new versions.

I have listened to several performances of Ave Maria on YT, confining my selections to the Guonod version David performs. There are so many masterful, sublime executions of this song. Somehow, David makes this masterpiece accessible and sublime at the same time. With others I feel an aloofness and he bridges that gap, at least for me.

Oh and Pat-A-Pan is magically delicious.

I’m with Houstonrufus on this one. If I like a song, I like several interpretations of it. With a Christmas album, unless it is made up of all originals, it’d be tough to find a tracklist that included ONLY songs not represented on other albums. I enjoy the different interpretations and I think I’d get exhausted trying to rank them. I can’t enjoy X singer on that song because Y did it better. Ugh. I’m thinking that it’s mostly in Idol-land that such a distinction would be made.

The songs are classic (Ave Maria and HYMLC ) and there are singers who have recorded timeless versions and hard to top that.
Thus newer versions would have to bring something different , something that will make us accept their version together with the timeless ones that are in our collection.

David and Charice , both very talented young kids but I am afraid this album might not be what we would add to our Christmas albums collection.

Actually, fill in the blank sang it better is a valid statement because the industry the Idols are in is about making an impact, and part of that impact is to make people forget, if just for a moment, the person who the listener thinks provided a ‘perfect’  rendition of their favorite song.

i don’t think most people’s standards are that high… rod stewart, for example, has done pretty well lately recording ”standards” and other covers, as it were, of some pretty classic and timeless tunes… no one, i’d think, expect his versions to make them ”forget” the original singers versions, or for those renditions to be ”perfect”… he, like any artist, is stamping or infusing his own unique take on the standard, in his style, his voice… like another poster noted, this is a win/win in many ways, as it helps expose many listeners too young to know anything about these standards to them, and helps those that are familiar with them have a greater appreciation of what really great music and songs singers like the garlands and other greats were making… yes, the comparisons will be made, that is a given, but one, i think, can and should also allow whatever artist deciding to take on such hallowed musical offerings a little wiggle room to explore them in their own style… no one really expects stewart to ”top” the original artists in his interpretations, nor do i feel one should expect david, in this outing, to topple garland or any other legend from their throne… ymmv.

Well, I’ll speak for myself. I’m adding it to my collection. ;)

It’s interesting to see so many comments about David’s versions of these songs compared to those by other artists. Frankly, I did not think about other versions when I listened to his three songs. I think it is a credit to David and his arrangers that they were able to make well known songs sound fresh and different. David’s version of Ave Maria is so good that I did not for a minute think about Schubert’s version which is the gold standard in my book. I think that what made David so memorable on Season 7 was his ability to take songs that everybody knows and twist, modify or rearrange them to make those songs his own. It looks like he has done this on the Christmas album. Can’t wait to hear the other songs.

I never collect christmas album but I will start with this one and the next …. as long as it is David.

I think David would be surprised that some people are talking about whether or not he is up to the Garland level or the whoever level. I think he just wants to sing and he knows that there are a lot of people who love his voice and that he can share whatever it is with the people who want to hear it. It reminds me of what he said on Idol when interviewed during Hollywood week before he sang “Heaven”. I think he said something like “I’m just going to just go out there, I’m going to tell it to the judges and I’m going to make sure they understand it”. That is what David does with every single song he sings – tries to get into the music and help us feel what he feels when he sings the music – the intent and the power of the music. And I have now listened to Ave Maria 32 times (yikes). I am hooked. (and that does not negate the beauty of any other version for me.

David should be proud of this christmas album.i’ve listened to the full songs and i’m really,really happy and satisfied.this will definitely be in my collections for years to come.just listened to david’s rendition made me forgot who the original singer was. It didn’t matter to me at all cuz i’m enjoying and i’m loving david’s version…jmo!

For the record,the songs am,oh, sn, wcit are soooo magnificent.it’s impossible not to shed tears when you listened…unless you are a robot…or heartless…..lol!

For some of the younger generation of David fans, who roll their eyes when their parents put on the older classic versions of the songs, David’s WILL be the the standard by which they judge all subsequent versions that will be recorded by other new singers in the decades to follow. They’ll tell their kids, “No one will ever be able to top David Archuleta’s version for me, kiddo. So don’t even try.”

And I see Mr. Walking Jukebox and music historian introducing them to other and older singers/songs and genres all the time. After he mentions someone or tweet-sings a song, twitter and the fan sites are FULL of the younger fans saying “Who is that?” “Never heard of them.” “What is that song, David?” or “I’ve heard of them but don’t know any of their stuff (or that song).” “I’ll check them out.” “Oh, my parents like them. You like them David? I’ll have to listen again.” “Oh, thanks David, I LOVE that!” “Cool!” “Thanks for introducing me to them!” etc, etc., etc.

tweets from david’s visit tonight – and brief appearance onstage – at the grand old opry.. who woulda thunk.. david at the opry! country fans, we’ll take ‘em ;)
=====================================

thebeebee @janey79 <333 :) I'm tweetin' around a little tonite. :)
I wuz LUCKY I saw David's Opry Tweet and was able to catch the live broadcast. about 1 hour ago from TweetDeck

thebeebee @janey79 it was soooo coooool to hear them call out David in the audience and announce CFTH. <3
about 1 hour ago from TweetDeck

thebeebee @AnnieDAFG then said something like "a talented young man from American Idol Season 7….David Archuleta…. blah blah"
about 1 hour ago from TweetDeck

thebeebee @janey79 then *poof* he was gone. :)
about 1 hour ago from TweetDeck

thebeebee @janey79 David did not sing. He barely even spoke. It went REALLLL FASSSSST.
39 minutes ago from TweetDeck

I noticed that davidarchie is about to hit 250,000 twitter followers sometime tonight (and he has never once asked anyone to follow him or anything). His followers increase by 750/1000 every day and I keep wondering who the heck are these people?

WTF????

Long time posters debating on whether it’s Ok to criticize the Idols or not? As if you just dropped in here yesterday and had no idea that sort of Meta discussion is the sort of thing I delete in an instant?

And now I’m beginning to understand why a couple of people dropped into the Adam thread today.

Oh and for the record. It’s ok to criticize the Idols. If you don’t like it, maybe my blog isn’t for you. But, please don’t comment on it in the thread. Stay on topic.

Not happy tonight….

Am I not making myself clear? Please stay on topic!

Judy Garland? Pavarotti? Battle? Wha? Huh?

Yesterday’s news, people. All. Of. Them.

This album is marketed to today’s generation…and their parents…neither of which give a hoot about Sinatra, Torme, et al. Sorry. Not saying they weren’t great, but it’s 2009. And most of them are dead and gone.

Anyway, David is but 18. And he’s male. So, in case some folks don’t know, his voice is still developing. And will be in development for about the next 10-12 years. Yes, the male singing voice matures fully some 10 years after the female voice. That’s a fact.

Ambitious? Yes. A complete success? Perhaps not. But an abject failure, crash-and-burn nightmare?? Heyall to the no. Heh, I dare you to find me 10 other 18 year-old, non-classically trained boy tenors in the USA who perform Ave Maria any better.

PS…Groban’s a baritone. And a damned good one. And he’s also got 10 years on David Archuleta.

Carolina, that is about the most sensible post I’ve seen in while.

I really couldn’t see too many other male idols singing Ava maria or Pat a pan or Riu Riu and get away with it! Could you see Cook or Kris or even Adam for that matter attempt these songs? ha!
That is why David is remarkable in this album. He stands pretty much alone, untouched in regards to the Christmas tunes.

Will be nice to hear the professional reviews that will come out after October 13. Anxious to hear them weigh in. Should be interesting.

Professional reviewers can have agendas Judy. I wouldn’t put too much stock in them.

^guess you’re right, good point. (sigh)

Yeah, Judy, I’ve already seen signs that the press might not be so warm in their response to the album. I hope I’m wrong, but certain publications have pretty much already set the tone for their reviews.

but that these particular songs were weak efforts. I went on to speculate that he was too young to be singing these songs with the kind of depth required to make Christmas songs great.

You know he worked so hard to make this album. One of his producers, Kurt Bestor mentioned that it was David himself who pushed his limit and tried over and over again until he was fully satisfied when he sang in Latin.

Also, Kurt Bestor and his team traveled to the Czech Republic to work with the City Philharmonic Orchestra for the songs on the album.

Last winter, there were plenty of fans who loved his short renditions of acapella Christmas songs for encore in his concerts, which led to his decision to make the ‘Christmas from the Heart’. As David puts into words, these songs are heartfelt songs from his heart.

It’s OK if you are not his fan, but saying that his efforts are weak is NOT COOL for an adult to say to a teenager.

Judy Garland? Pavarotti? Battle? Wha? Huh?

Yesterday’s news, people. All. Of. Them.This album is marketed to today’s generation’ ¦and their parents’ ¦neither of which give a hoot about Sinatra, Torme, et al. Sorry. Not saying they weren’t great, but it’s 2009. And most of them are dead and gone.

Yes, of course it’s not marketed to those old fogeys and fuddy duddies, that’s why it’s a Christimas album featuring songs that are ya know, really old and crap. And some of them are even Classical like that whole Ave Marie thing. I don’t know how you can have a version of a Latin song that is hundreds of years old and somehow be considered NOW! and HIP! but okay. The fact is that song is several hundred years old and well Archie’s version of it isn’t that great for me. And yes Kathleen Battle is an opera singer, but she’s not known as a great opera singer and this is NOT an opera song, so I don’t expect that of it. I’ve heard many great choir and other versions of it, even in this decade! so not just your great-great-great-grandmother’s choir anymore. And yes, most versions I have heard of just a choir, have been this version of Archie’s version of it here.

I really couldn’t see too many other male idols singing Ava maria or Pat a pan or Riu Riu and get away with it! Could you see Cook or Kris or even Adam for that matter attempt these songs? ha!

Actually, I wouldn’t have thought those guys would sound decent on Music of the Night or She Works Hard for the Money or Ring of Fire, but they did. Just saying that I don’t think David is the only person who could sing an album of Christmas songs. He’s a beautiful singer, but these other guys are too.

I like David but I’m not a fan of xmas music. But I’ve just listened to the Ave Maria, and I might get it when the CD comes out. It’s my favorite version of that song, and it’s a strong performance.

I wish there was more original music on it. An album of covers, even if holiday, just invites comparison to others who’ve sung each song. I see why David is a good singer to make a Christmas album, but an album of covers early in a career can be more damaging than successful because the singer isn’t established enough to overcome the comparison factor. And if he’d waited another year, he’d have more original material. Well, it’s water under the bridge now. I hope the critics don’t go to town on the album.

Well I’d say most xmas albums are mainly covers.. lol Thats what people like to hear around xmas, songs they are familiar with. It cool to find new songs too, but cant go wrong with traditional xmas tunes.

Actually there are some on there I wasnt all that familiar with even though they are traditional or not. Patapan, riu, what child is this and even ave maria I wasnt all that familiar with.. So its cool I get a chance to actually familiarize myself with them because they are on this album. I’d probably otherwise keep on being oblivious to them.. lol

Yes — I agree with what you said there, frog. I love Christmas music and have tons of albums, yet I don’t have a single version of Riu Riu Chiu, PatAPan and Ave Maria. Hadn’t even heard the first two before David introduced them to me.

Also, I have albums from all sorts of people, and yet my favorite two, I believe, will be from Amy Grant and David, partly because they are people who sing not only about the fun parts of Christmas (Santa, presents, reindeer) but the meaning behind the celebration. I think this album can introduce some of David’s young fans to some great Christmas music they likely haven’t heard before. (Public school holiday programs in my area emphasize secular music, these days.)

On last thing that comes to mind, and I don’t mean to get into a religious debate at all (I couldn’t hold my own) — but David is only 18, and I’ve been a big fan long enough to have a sense of who he is. I’d say that at 18, he may have a deeper reverence for the holiday than many adults I know.

Kathy your last paragraph I’d agree with completely.

Ryan just pimped the album on the at40

OK, I just listened to Pat-A-Pan at http://community.charicemania.com/_Pat-a-Pan-David-Archuleta/audio/568710/82126.html?b=

I seriously love it. I think I just may buy this album since there are at least 3 songs that I’m enjoying – Ave Maria, Pat-a-Pan, and Merry Little Christmas. I may also buy it for a brother and sister whose favourite holiday is Christmas.

I’m not an Archie fan, never was. But I can appreciate his voice and good music. Both are present here.

Reminder:

Personal attack on posters = You. Are. Banned.

Pat-a-pan is a piece of awesomeage(tm david). ^^ Glad you like it :)

Well I’d say most xmas albums are mainly covers.. lol

right. thus, my argument to wait. But he didn’t and there it is.

Actually there are some on there I wasnt all that familiar with even though they are traditional or not. Patapan, riu,

yeah–those two especially haven’t been recorded a lot and do add variety to the album, which makes it more interesting.

I don’t know how you can have a version of a Latin song that is hundreds of years old and somehow be considered NOW! and HIP! but okay.

I think the argument is sort of the opposite. The version doesn’t update the song. The young (or “HIP!” and “NOW!”) artist introduces the younger generation to music that they wouldn’t hear but for the young artist recording it. Thousands of people will hear, say, Ave Maria for the first time b/c David recorded it, not because Kathleen Battle (or my favorite on that song/version, Barbra Streisand) recorded it umpteen years ago. If the older versions are a 10 and David’s is a 9, it’s still a worthy performance because it’s good and because it introduces this timeless music for a new audience.

I’ve been a big fan long enough to have a sense of who he is. I’d say that at 18, he may have a deeper reverence for the holiday than many adults I know

yeah–that’s why I agree that he’s a good artist to do a Xmas album. There are people who love that about him and will be attracted to the album because he is devout. But I don’t think that it’s a pre-requisite. I don’t know how much merrymaking Barbra Streisand does on Christmas morning? (maybe a lot–who knows? She’s married to a Christian)

Ryan just pimped the album on the at40

that’s great. For one of, what?, 5 or 6 or more?, Xmas albums releasing on that day, a lot of people are talking about it.

Well bob dylan has an xmas album out that day, i dunno who else.. lol But I’m glad he mentioned it, he also played a few short clips.

Well bob dylan has an xmas album out that day, i dunno who else.. lol

Bob Dylan, David Archuleta, Sugarland, Jackson 5, Aretha Franklin, Barry Manilow

http://www.newsday.com/entertainment/music/merry-cds-from-bob-dylan-aretha-franklin-1.1513045

neil diamond too.. lol

Professional reviewers can have agendas Judy. I wouldn’t put too much stock in them.

I will listen to what most “professional” reviewers of music or movies, as well as politicians, have to say. BUT I have a mind of my own and my own tastes and opinions, so I don’t put a whole lot of stock in what they say, and most of the people I know are the same way.

It’s a darned good thing that I’m an insomniac. I keep staying up to the early hours of the mornings then finally succumbing to the Sandman, only to wake up late in the mornings and find that the leaked clips happened while I was sleeping and have then been subsequently taken down before I can toss my willpower out the window.

heh

Is it Tuesday yet?

Pat a pan is gone! Poof! Unless someone has knowledge of it floating..

I don’t really like new Christmas songs. I haven’t heard any in the last decade to equal the timeless ones we all know and love. So, I’m good with covers of these traditional gems. Christmas is all about tradition and returning to what we remember and have always loved. I don’t agree that David needed to wait a year to remake the wheel or that he is too young to be singing these covers with the depth to make them great. They are great. He’s a great singer. How is this a bad plan? Wait….is that sleigh bells I hear? No…it sounded more like…ka ching.

Music of the Night was not well done at all in my viewpoint by Cook. Simon called it a disaster. I think alot of the Cook fans liked it because it was finally something different. But all of these songs on album are leaps and bounds above artistically than those songs that were highlighted as up their with David’s.

Heard Pat-A-Pan! Love love it!
And Ava Maria again.
Ok, David has a voice! Both songs are perfection! Nothing more to say than that.

Well, I went on a hunt to hear Pat-A-Pan again (heard it on that open stream one time a few days ago before it was pulled) and of course, it is out there and I now I just keep listening to it – I really like that song. It is so unusual and catchy and now I just want to sing it (and feel silly). The song was one big surprise to me from the beginning French to the ending harmonies. What a great surprise. Well done, David.

well, i for one do not listen to Christmas music, i hate the fact that my radio station sticks to one damn playlist and am not a fan of it. I avoid turning on my radio once Xmas music starts the rotation. Bleh….

I’ve never in my life heard the songs: Riu Riu Chiu and Pat-a Pan. or What Child Is This.

When i saw that they were going to be in Archie’s Cd, I YouTubed them and he wasn’t kidding when he kept saying it was going to a traditional cx-mas cd.

I’m trying to keep away from spoilers but this website has amazing sound. It’s just snippets of his songs. Anticipation is High here (in my house) (just me though) … :)

http://www.gohastings.com/product/POPMUSIC/Christmas-From-the-Heart/sku/279265089.uts

OMG. The sound quality is amazing. His French on Pat A Pam is so pretty and smooth. And the voice on What Child Is This is pure and pretty. Thanks for the link.

Pat A Pan is really fun and that chorus just won’t get out of my head. lol I’m so listening to that one this Christmas.
The french is terrible, lol. At first I couldn’t even understand it was french, but it’s only the beginning, so it doesn’t bother me at all.

Suzanne

Well bob dylan has an xmas album out that day, i dunno who else.. lol

Bob Dylan, David Archuleta, Sugarland, Jackson 5, Aretha Franklin, Barry Manilow

I think this year’s big Christmas album may be Andrea Bocelli “My Christmas”. On sale on 11/3/09. #13 on Amazon’s Music list on preorder and headed up; 23 days in the Top 100.

Yeah, I think Andrea will sell the most this year.

Really, Leome? A couple of fans from Europe said he did really well with the French (and the Latin) with just a little bit of his soft Spanish pronunciations bleeding through. Ah well… haha! Most of us don’t know the difference. heh

Pat A Pan is really fun and that chorus just won’t get out of my head. lol I’m so listening to that one this Christmas.
The french is terrible, lol. At first I couldn’t even understand it was french, but it’s only the beginning, so it doesn’t bother me at all.

Oh really? LOLOL! I only know hello, goodbye and my name is in French so I have no clue if he’s doing it well. It just sounds intriguing to me. Hopefully the French won’t be too offended. Hee.

I’m glad others are liking the song though.

You can listen to Pat-A-Pan here

Thanks leeann! Had no idea what this (Pat-A-Pan) would sound like, never heard of it before, so wasn’t too interested even, but ….. well, I like it! Catchy. Nice addition to the album.

I like Pat a Pan. I thought his French was fine for a non-native speaker. I had no difficulty following it but I’m Canadian and probably have more exposure to French than most. At any rate, here are the lyrics that I pulled off the net for those interested in following the French:

Guillà ´, prends ton tambourin,
Toi, prends ta flà »te, Robin
Au son de ces instruments
Tu-re-lu-re-lu, pat-a-pat-a-pan
Au son de ces instruments
Je dirai Noà «l, gaiement.

FYI – RE: Pat-A-Pan

The Euro Archies figured out they used part of Karl Jenkin’s Allegretto in the arrangement.

Random complaint: Ah man! The Malayasians who pre-ordered the CD got a MUCH better cover. Humph!

http://twitpic.com/l7s6g

ETA: I guess it’s an overlay. A gift box cover with the CD inside with the same cover as the US is getting.

Well, no offense to the non-DA fans who want to compare David to… anyone else. But that holds no water because…he isn’t anyone else. Sure, Garland, Bocelli and Groban are legends somewhat. But what does that have to do with David, or any other Idols? I am David’s fan because of who he is, both as an artist and person. What David brings to the table sets him apart from anyone else, and what he brings is all I need.

Pat-A-Pan was awesome! I loved the instrumentation (the bells, the orchestra). It sounded so cool and so much fun. Nice piece to mix things up a bit. I loved it. Thanks for the link.

ETA: I know “What Child is This” is on that same link, but I can’t listen to it from where I am for some reason. I’m at work.

Wow just heard Pat a Pan on youtube and now it’s stuck in my head. wasn’t expecting to love it judging from the title at first.

What Child is this! Beautiful. This is David at his best. my favorite. love love the arrangement. well done!

Ave Maria. criticising him for not having the voice is unfair. With one vocal chord and his voice is still developing. it is a cover, but David’s unique voice makes the piece his own and that makes a lot of difference.

Lastly, at least for me, I expect covers on christmas albums especially traditional ones. When I buy christmas albums, I always look for O Holy Night, Joy to the World, etc. no pop contemporaarised stuff for me.

As a fan, very satisfied with the quality of the production. Good job!

David Ave Maria ´s pronunciation/accent is excellent, better than almost every American/Brittish/Irish singers. I know many, many versions of the song: Barbra, Celine, Charlotte Church, Celtic Woman ´s Chà ¶e Agnew, The Cranberries ´ Dolores O ´Riordan’ ¦ despite their wonderfull voices, they have very bad pronunciation/accent. Even American ‘diva’ Jessye Norman and soprano singer Kathleen Battle don ´t have a very good pronunciation of that song (although I think opera singers should take care of their pronunciation more than any other singers when singing classic music like that. Example of beautiful opera singers (non Italian) pronunciation: Maria Callas, born American, musically educated in Greece and career established in Italy and Spanish tenor Placido Domingo).

Exception in America: Josh Groban AND David Archuleta!

Of course, Caruso, Pavarotti, Bocelli have better pronunciation/accent, but they are Italian and they MUST have a very good pronunciation when singing in Latin.

And David, an 18 year old kid, took very good care of his pronunciation/accent, while other previously mentioned singers with double/triple of his age didn ´t bothered.
And this is very important when you sing in a foreign language!

Post Scriptum: my native language is Portuguese, which comes from Latin, and I already studied 2 years of Latin language in college. But I don’t know English very well, so I apologize for my spelling/vocabulary. I don ´t post regularly precisely because of this.