Album Info
| Artist: | Joan Baez |
| Album: | Noël |
| Released: | US, 1970 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | O Come, O Come Emmanuel | 2:56 |
| A2 | Coventry Carol | 2:21 |
| A3 | The Little Drummer Boy | 3:00 |
| Written-By - Simeone, Onorati, Davis | ||
| A4 | I Wonder As I Wander | 4:31 |
| Written-By - John Jacob Niles | ||
| A5 | Down In Yon Forest | 1:39 |
| A6 | The Carol Of The Birds | 3:29 |
| A7 | Angels We Have Heard On High | 1:21 |
| B1 | Ave Maria | 4:05 |
| Written-By - Franz Schubert | ||
| B2 | Mary's Wandering; Deck The Halls | 3:39 |
| B3 | Away In A Manger; Adeste Fideles | 2:44 |
| Written-By - Martin Luther | ||
| B4 | Cantique Del Noël | 3:45 |
| Written-By - Adolphe Adam | ||
| B5 | What Child Is This | 3:01 |
| B6 | Silent Night | 2:22 |
| Written-By - Franz Gruber |
Info About Buying Vinyl From Our Record Store
- We are a small independent record store located at 91 Plenty Rd, Preston in Melbourne's North (Australia)
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Description
Joan Baez's album "Noël," released on October 1, 1966, is a beautiful collection of traditional Christmas songs that showcases her ethereal voice and deep emotional connection to the music. This album is not just a holiday record; it’s a heartfelt tribute to the spirit of the season, infused with Baez's unique folk style and social consciousness.
From the moment you press play, you’re greeted by Baez’s hauntingly beautiful rendition of "O Come, O Come, Emmanuel." Her voice, rich and resonant, captures the longing and hope that the song embodies. It’s a perfect introduction to the album, setting the tone for what’s to come. The arrangements are simple yet effective, allowing Baez’s vocals to shine without overwhelming the listener with excessive instrumentation.
One of the standout tracks is undoubtedly "The First Noel." Baez’s interpretation is both tender and powerful, and you can feel the emotion in every note. The way she phrases the lyrics brings a fresh perspective to this classic carol, making it feel both timeless and new. The album also features other beloved Christmas songs like "Silent Night" and "What Child Is This?" Each track is a testament to Baez’s ability to convey deep emotion through her music.
Critically, "Noël" was well-received upon its release. Major publications praised Baez for her vocal prowess and the album's overall production quality. The arrangements, crafted by the talented producer and arranger, were designed to complement Baez’s voice without overshadowing it. This balance is one of the album's strengths, allowing listeners to focus on the lyrics and the message behind each song.
Interestingly, "Noël" was released during a time of significant social change in America. The 1960s were marked by civil rights movements and anti-war protests, and Baez was at the forefront of these movements, using her music as a platform for activism. While "Noël" is a departure from her more politically charged work, it still reflects her deep commitment to peace and love, themes that resonate strongly during the holiday season.
In terms of awards, while "Noël" itself may not have garnered specific nominations, Joan Baez has received numerous accolades throughout her career, including a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2017. Her influence on folk music and her role as a social activist have solidified her place in music history, and albums like "Noël" contribute to her legacy.
A fun fact about the album is that it was recorded in a relatively short time frame, which speaks to Baez’s incredible talent and the chemistry she had with her musicians. The simplicity of the arrangements allows the listener to focus on the purity of her voice, which is a hallmark of Baez’s style. It’s also worth noting that this album was one of the first Christmas albums to be released by a folk artist, paving the way for future artists in the genre to explore holiday music in their own unique ways.
In conclusion, Joan Baez's "Noël" is more than just a collection of Christmas songs; it’s a heartfelt expression of love, hope, and peace. Whether you’re a long-time fan of Baez or someone looking to add a touch of folk magic to your holiday season, this album is a must-listen. It captures the essence of Christmas in a way that is both nostalgic and refreshing, making it a timeless addition to any holiday playlist.