The John Fahey Christmas Album
John Fahey · 1991
57 min · 16 tracks · blues
An intimate tapestry of acoustic guitar, rich with folk traditions and haunting melodies that transform classic carols.
Why this album works
This album stands out not only for its unique blend of folk and Christmas music but also for its enduring influence on contemporary acoustic guitarists. It has become a seasonal favorite, contributing to the folk revival movement while receiving critical acclaim for its artistic approach to familiar holiday themes.
- Best for
- intimate holiday gatherings reflective evening listening gradual builds and payoffs
- Context
- Released in 1968, 'The John Fahey Christmas Album' came during a period of creative exploration for Fahey, following his acclaimed works like 'The Voice of the Turtle' (1965). This album marked his first foray into holiday music, showcasing his unique fingerstyle guitar technique while introducing a more accessible sound to a broader audience. It positioned him as an innovative artist willing to reinterpret traditional genres.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Johnny Hallyday· Ike & Tina Turner· Billy Preston
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Jingle Bells 3:03
- 2 Angels From the Realms of Glory 2:04
- 3 Silent Night Standout 3:16
- 4 Lo How a Rose E’er Blooming 4:30
- 5 Irish Medley Standout 5:44
- 6 O Little Town of Bethlehem 3:19
- 7 Santisma 1:33
- 8 Christ Is Born on Christmas Day 3:04
- 9 O Come Little Children / Ach Du Lieber Augustine 2:58
- 10 Mary Had a Baby 1:20
- 11 The Little Drummer Boy 2:34
- 12 Good Christian Men Rejoice, Rejoice 1:32
- 13 Spanish Carol 2:00
- 14 O Holy Night Standout 3:34
- 15 Christ Is Born as Child of Man 2:24
- 16 Christmas Medley: Samuel Barber’s ‘Largo’ / It Came Upon a Midnight Clear / We Three Kings / Greensleeves / In the Bleak Midwinter / Hark! The Herald Angels Sing / O Come All Ye Faithful / Samuel Barber’s ‘Largo’ 14:22
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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