Billy Idol

Happy Holidays

2006, Cyber Corps Inc.

Rating: 4.5/5

Billy Idol and Christmas music are not two things that appear to go well together. As soon as I discovered this CD, I immediately ordered it without sampling a single track. Upon its arrival I was unprepared for the sounds that soon await my ears.

Opening the disc and putting it into the player I was half expecting to hear punked up rock versions of classic holiday tunes with the Idol edge and attitude. Judging from the cover I was partially expecting traditional lounge inspired versions. To generalize the disc, you get the latter traditional style with a tinge of the Idol attitude.

Hearing Billy sing these traditional holiday favorites is a treat in itself. He does not interpret them in his own style, but stays true to the original versions. It's his distinct voice that adds that unique edge to the songs without going overboard.

His version of  "Merry Christmas Baby" is one of the discs many highlights. The vocals have a certain swagger to them that suits the songs perfectly. Even "Jingle Bell Rock" is close to the version we all know and love. If there is one song on the disc you'd expect Billy to rock out to, it would be this one. Another standout track is "Christmas Love" with its acoustic guitar and traditional bells. It has a holiday night sing-a-long feel to it. A real great surprise on this disc. His versions of "Silent Night" and "Auld Lang Syne" will give you a new appreciation for his voice as he pulls off these tunes with what appears to be such ease.

Very few can pull off certain songs, but Billy hold his own. This is sure to be a holiday favorite of many for years to come. A disc that can be enjoyed by all ages. You crank it up, you can even party to it.

• Frosty the Snowman
• Silver Bells
• Happy Holidays
• Merry Christmas Baby
• White Christmas
• Here Comes Santa Claus
• God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen
• Santa Claus Is Back In Town
• Let It Snow
• Winter Wonderland
• Run Rudolph Run
• Blue Christmas
• Jingle Bell Rock
• Christmas Love
• Oh Christmas Tree
• Silent Night
• Auld Lang Syne