Although technically this is not really a “classical recording”–its sensibility and the majority of its repertoire are definitely more in the pop and pseudo-jazz vein–its acoustic foundation and the priority given to voices and to vocal ensemble technique in this Dutch group’s presentation (not to mention the sort of overlapping of categories that’s always been accepted in Christmas music) enable it to live comfortably in the classical CD section with other similarly-cast programs–think the King’s Singers, for example. And when you hear these 14 polished, stylistically savvy male singers, who make up a group that, according to the liner notes is “unique in the Netherlands”, you’ll quickly be taken in by the warm, vibrant sound, the fine blend, and by the nifty arrangements, most written specially for The Gents by Dutch arrangers.
The range of pieces encompasses traditional sacred repertoire such as Es ist ein Ros entsprungen and Silent Night and travels all the way to modern popular favorites such as Have yourself a merry little Christmas, White Christmas, Jingle bell rock, and Mel Tormé’s classic The Christmas Song. Although songs such as Howard Blake’s Walking in the air and Paul McCartney’s sappy Wonderful Christmastime may stretch some listeners’ schlock tolerance, the overall concept and execution here amount to a successful and eminently listenable holiday celebration that captures the season’s lively, lighthearted spirit. Channel Classics’ sound on this Hybrid Super Audio CD is truly super, its full-featured dynamic range and clarity lending impressive realism to an unusual and well-produced program that easily stands out among the dozens of new Christmas recordings. [11/8/2003]
