Recorded to benefit the Special Olympics, this has some of the biggest names in contemporary music, most covering seasonal favorites with mixed success. Outstanding tracks include
the Pretenders "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas," with
Chrissie Hynde giving a touching performance.
Run-D.M.C.'s topical "Christmas in Hollis" relies heavily on sampling "Back Door Santa," and may head you toward the dance floor.
Alison Moyet's stately version of "The Coventry Carol" is beautifully haunting. Only the Material Girl,
Madonna, embarrasses herself with an overly campy "Santa Baby." ~ Dennis MacDonald