Although
Rosemary Clooney had a major part in the famous film
White Christmas back in 1954, this was her first full Christmas album and it was a big seller when it was released late in 1996. From the jazz standpoint, there is not much here, as
Clooney is accompanied by a huge orchestra conducted and mostly arranged by
Peter Matz. Although there are a few brief solos from altoist
Gary Foster, tenor saxophonist
Dan Higgins, trombonist
Chauncey Welsch and trumpeter
Warren Luening, the music is essentially nostalgic middle-of-the-road pop with
Clooney joined on several numbers by the Earl Brown Singers (who also take brief a cappella versions of some veteran Christmas tunes); one tune apiece features appearances by
Michael Feinstein and
Rosemary's brother
Nick Clooney. But jazz content aside,
Rosemary Clooney is in good voice, and the heartfelt emotions that she expresses on these Yuletide favorites communicate quite well.