A Very Special Christmas - Vol. 5
Five volumes in 14 years would probably qualify these all-star benefit albums (Special Olympics) as a holiday tradition by now, even if all five have been hit-and-miss affairs. Still, the 2001 edition has a few more highlights than a quick glance at its offerings might indicate.Jon Bon Jovitries to imitate Elvis on "Blue Christmas," andDarlene Love--surely as important a voice in the genre asBing Crosby--falls short in her attempt to recreate her superior 1963Phil Spectorversion of "White Christmas." Genuinely cool, though, areMacy Gray's jazzy "This Christmas,"Eve 6's pop-metallic "Noel! Noel!,"City High's hip-hop Christmas hybrid, andSR71's goofy take onBilly Squier's already goofy "Time to Say I Love You." Things get downright steamy--and Santa-sized--whenJohn Poppermeets up withB.B. Kingfor the bluesy "Back Door Santa."--Bill Holdship