Gloria Estefan Album: “Christmas Through Your Eyes”

This elegantly presented Christmas album has the feel of snow falling outside our windows as children play, all bundled up in big coats and mittens. Songs we often hear during this season are made new by Gloria's interpretations and some terrific arrangements from producer Phil Ramone.

Though the arrangements are modern, this somehow manages to have a 1940's feel. You can easily imagine Gloria in front of one of those large microphones from the era, elegantly dressed in red with long white gloves, a small choir behind her. It almost seems like something which could have been broadcast over the airwaves from a ballroom somewhere, as in the days of old radio.

Gloria's rendition of "The Christmas Song" is a simple yet sophisticated arrangement that makes this venerable classic sound new. It is so good, in fact, you can play it back-to-back with Nat King Cole's wonderful version, and enjoy each in an entirely different way. It has a much different mood, and except for the words, seems like an altogether different song.

Another seasonal song, "Silver Bells," is given a new slant as well. On "Let It Snow, Let It Snow, Let It Snow" there are touches of the big band sound of old, as horns chime in and give us a happy feeling. "Have Yorself a Merry Little Christmas" uses a choir behind Gloria for a classic feel to this popular song.

Gloria's happily sung "This Christmas" is absolutely my favorite version of this song. No one has ever sung it better. No one. It really is firesides blazing bright and children caroling in the snow. A choir of children back Gloria up in fun fasion on this one.

Gloria really tells a small story in "I'll Be Home For Christmas," which is what this song is supposed to do. Bing still has the corner on "White Christmas" but Gloria's rendition is very nice indeed. "Silent Night" is respectful and simply presented, yet moving.

The Spanish "Arbolito De Navidad" has some light and breezy guitar work and is very pretty. Gloria's wonderful "Christmas Through Your Eyes" is a truly heartfelt longing to see things as we once did long ago, when we were children, and the world seemed like a simple and magical place.

Concluding the set is "Christmas Auld Lang Syne." It has just a bit of melancholy and really captures the feel of the season as it winds down. This is something really special for the Holidays. It has a certain elegance, yet remains warm and friendly. This is an artistic and beautiful collection of songs you'll find yourself playing constantly during November and December. A must own for everyone.

"I'll Be Home For Christmas" is a masterpiece, and I consider this arrangement of the Christmas classic worth the price of the CD. The complex harmonies sung a cappella by the American Boy Choir with only a hint of orchestral bells before the chorus create a hauntingly beautiful rendition like none ever before enjoyed. The impeccable diction and precision of this fine choir adds to the grandeur of this performance. This amazing track along with the other songs on this CD have made me into a tremendous fan and admirer of Gloria Estefan.

Merry Christmas!

I purchased this CD 2 years ago and it has become one of our favorite Christmas CDs. My husband is a classical music lover and he was impressed with their version of Silver Bells. I initially purchased this CD because of one song: Arbolito de Navidad. My grandmother used to sing that song at Christmas time when I was a little girl. To my surprise I ended up loving the entire CD, which is rare. I really recommend it!

Of all the Christmas albums I have heard, this strikes me as the most genuine and heartfelt. The song selection is superb and Gloria's vocals are outstanding. Seldom will you hear more passion and conviction in the star's voice than you do on this holiday collection. The set opens with an uplifting rendition of "Silver Bells," followed by elegant versions of "The Christmas Song" and "Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas." A spiced up "Let It Snow, Let It Snow, Let It Snow" is fun and flirtatious. The true gem, however, is the beautiful and haunting "Silent Night." As an added treat, "Christmas Through Your Eyes," is an original, co-written by Gloria. This album will not disappoint. Each song, whether traditional or contemporary, adds to the charm of the collective package. "Christmas Through Your Eyes" is a true classic, the perfect holiday present from this treasure of an artist to the world.

This recording is the True Gloria that most people would think about! She gave us a gift in making this project. Not only is this recording well done, but its a pleasure to put in you stereo player at the Holidays!!! Most people think that Gloria Estefan is for their young and would not want to take any of their time to give this project a listen. Well, if you like any Christmas music that has any Good-Clean taste at all,I recommend that you try listening to this recording first before you start Judging any music at all!!!