 | ON: Content is age-appropriate for kids this age. |
 | PAUSE: Know your child; some content may not be right for some kids. |
 | OFF: Not age-appropriate for kids this age. |
 | NOT FOR KIDS: Not appropriate for kids any age. |
Christmas from the Heart
- By David Archuleta
- Genre: Holiday
Common Sense Media says
Excellent traditional Christmas music from Idol alum.
Parents say
QUALITY
Kids say
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that this is as safe as a holiday album can be, and although most of these songs are familiar to all ages, the classical nature might not totally appeal to kids looking for a holiday album with a pop sound. Unlike Archuleta's previous releases, this album will probably appeal to more mature tastes since there are very few fast-paced tunes (or references to Santa, for that matter). This album is more for introspective thought and a celebration of faith, rather than a rock around the Christmas tree.
What's the story?
CHRISTMAS FROM THE HEART contains some of the most well-known and classic songs of the season, like "Angels We Have Heard on High," "O Come All Ye Faithful," and "Silent Night," as well as centuries-old tunes like "Ave Maria" and the French traditional "Pat-A-Pan." Archuleta takes a break from his traditionally youthful pop sound to offer up a more refined voice here, with restrained harmonies and low-key melodies. There is, however, one original song amongst the standards, called "Melodies of Christmas"; it was co-written by Archuleta and ends the album reaffirming the sentiments of faith and family expressed in the other dozen tracks.
Is it any good?
If David Archuleta didn't have such a boyish look on this album's cover, it might be easier to make the connection between this American Idol sweetheart and the refined vocals on Christmas from the Heart. Some might say that Archuleta plays it safe, covering such classics as "Ave Maria" and "What Child Is This," but it's a big risk when you consider his young fan base is probably looking more for a upbeat pop-infused album rather than an operatic nod to the classics. Archuleta's vocals are impressive and hold their own on well-loved standards. His own original song, "Melodies of Christmas," does a nice job of offering up a modern track that still fits in nicely with the overall feel of the LP, wrapping up this musical gift.
What families can talk about
Families can talk about holiday traditions. How does music play a role in your family's holidays? Does holiday music put you in a special mood? Do you prefer slow, thoughtful holiday tunes, or more modern interpretations?
Families can talk about how Christmas is marketed to kids and families. Do you feel pressure to spend a lot of money on presents this year, or do you have big expectations for what you are going to receive? Do you think it would be better to focus on other holiday traditions besides shopping, or is spending what the holiday is all about?
Families can talk about the difference in American Idol alums. What do they all have in common (if anything)? Do most of them follow a similar pop formula? Does Archuleta seem to differ from many of the others? Why do you think he has remained successful while other AI artists have disappeared from the charts?
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AGE
Wonderful for ALL ages!!!
I am a huge David Archuleta fan, and this CD was no let down! His vocals are amazing. The songs are traditional, but he really puts an upbeat spin on them. The orchestra music is also amazing on the CD. The last song is one he co-wrote called The Melodies of Christmas. It talks about the Christmas season and how "Old familiar melodies bring back special memories" It is a very upbeat and positive song. We've been enjoying the CD in my home since it came out in October. It's a must have this season! Merry Christmas!!! ;-)
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AGE
A traditional Christmas album with inventive arrangements
I love this album. There is just one new song on the album, a song about about how the music of Christmas brings back warm memories of family times together.The rest of the album is almost all traditional religious Christmas carols and music, with two older standards I'll Be Home for Christmas and Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas. David conveys the real meaning of Christmas in his choices, not the frivoulous side. There are no songs about Santa or gifts or reindeer. But the arrangements are very inventive, with some including bit of melody from other carols in the background. The accompaniment is is smooth mix of a real Czech string orchestra with some modern synth effects, giving the album a sound quality as crisp as a clear snowy day. And David's song styling adds a respectful but more modern soulful vocal sound to some songs, and that can be attractive to young people. One song has a little bit of French, and two songs are totally in foreign languages, one in Spanish and one in Latin. Beautiful sound and wonderful values in this album.
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AGE
Perfect Christmas cd
This cd is traditional and captures the true meaning of Christmas. David Archuleta's vocals are amazing, and these songs were meant to be heard with an orchestra. This is my all-time favorite Christmas cd, and one which I will enjoy throughout the year.
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AGE
Fallout New Vegas review
I HATE COMMON SENSE MEDIA
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| Artist: | David Archuleta |
| Release date: | November 13, 2009 |
| Label: | Jive Records |
| Genre: | Holiday |
| Parental advisory: | No |
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