Christmas collections are often a dubious proposition, sets of songs that harbor some measure of holiday cheer but then fade into irreverence the rest of the year. Oftentimes the material is otherwise inconsequential — after all, is another take on “White Christmas” or “Silver Bells” really needed? — and apart from a few ongoing standards like John Lennon’s “Happy Christmas,” they’re often relegated to the back drawer as oddities, rarities or the stuff of anthologies. Of course, the artists that are involved make the biggest difference, and that in itself is often the only real reason to care.
Christmas on the Lam and Other Songs from the Season actually improves on the traditional holiday template, not because there’s significant diversion from the form, but rather because the material offers the potential for a longer shelf life overall. No matter that a handful of these songs are culled from previous albums; that alone makes the case that these tunes boast substantial staying power. Likewise, most of the offerings lack the heavy reverence and gravitas that forces listeners to lean towards religious precedent and serious contemplation. The ragtime revelry of Davina & the Vagabonds’ “Santa Bring My Baby Back” and Bill Kirchen and Austin de Leone’s bluesy shuffle “Santa Claus Wants Some Lovin’” add an animated air of frivolity that takes these tracks to another level altogether. On the other hand, John Gorka’s previously released “Holed Up Mason City,” Suzzy Roche’s reprise of her resounding “Cold Hard Win,” Robin and Linda Williams’ cozy “Together All Alone,” and the Pines’ rustic, reverential “Song for a Winter’s Night” add an emotional underbelly that transcends the usual sentiments of the season. Those songs alone are well worth the price of admission.
Granted, there is some commercial consideration involved with the artists who were included. All belong to the Red House roster, making this an ideal sampler of sorts as well as holiday fodder. Yet given the consistent quality and universal embrace, Christmas on the Lam and Other Songs from the Season makes for a compelling acquisition if for no other reason than for the sake of the songs.
