Discover the Eagles' Christmas Musical Magic
Side A
Last Christmas - This opening track is quite a cruel choice. Releasing it just a week before Whamageddon, when some of us are trying to avoid the overplayed "Last Christmas," is a bit vindictive. But the Philly Specials do give it a bit of a modern twist. Jordan Mailata sings it better than George Michael, adding a pleasant instrumental break that elevates the song. Rating: 3 out of 5 Nick Sirianni tears. It's a good start, even with a cover of a rather cheesy song.
Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer - Lane Johnson shines with this overplayed Christmas tune. They give it a unique touch by featuring a steel guitar, violin, and Southern-twang vocals. It's a fun take on the classic, but not much new to say. Rating: 2 out of 5 Nick Sirianni tears. It's a fun cover, but not enough to convert a Christmas hater like me.
Having A Party - A break from the classic Christmas tunes! This is a certified bop about having a party and dancing. Devon Gilfillian's voice blends beautifully with the rest. It could be a new Eagles tailgate anthem. Rating: 4 out of 5 Nick Sirianni tears. A song I can enjoy all year long.
Christmas Don't Be Late - My favorite part of the first two albums were the Eagles Easter eggs. This cover of Alvin and the Chipmunks' song is a pleasant surprise. Jeff Stoutland's presence adds a nice touch. Rating: 4 out of 5 Nick Sirianni tears. A touching reunion between Kelce and Stoutland.
Feliz Navidad - Jordan Mailata knocks it out of the park again. Slowing it down and adding harmonies make it perfect. Rating: 4 out of 5 Nick Sirianni tears. A surprising favorite on the album.
Maybe This Christmas - Stevie Nicks and Jason Kelce team up for a popular song. Their voices blend beautifully, and it's a beautiful duet. Rating: 5 out of 5 Nick Sirianni tears. A touchdown in the world of Christmas music.
Side B
It's Christmas Time (In Cleveland Heights) - Written by Zach Miller of Dr. Dog, this original song features Boyz II Men. It's a bit sacrilegious for a Philly Eagles album, but it's still a treat. Jason Kelce shows his hometown pride. Rating: 2.5 out of 5 Nick Sirianni tears. A nice addition, but I wish it was more about Philly.
Loud Little Town - Kylie Kelce shines with this original song. It's a sentimental lullaby about family. A refreshing new Christmas song. Rating: 4 out of 5 Nick Sirianni tears. A beautiful display of the Kelce family bond.
Please Come Home for Christmas - Another slow rock song for Mailata to show off his vocal range. It doesn't deviate too much from the original, but it's still enjoyable. Rating: 3 out of 5 Nick Sirianni tears. A nice way to end the album.
Sleigh Ride - The Philly Specials team up with some of the city's finest musicians to create a big band Christmas song. It's a thrilling adventure. Rating: 4 out of 5 Nick Sirianni tears. A true musical motif.
Santa Drives An Astrovan - A spinoff of Mt. Joy's song with a Philly twist. It shows the symbiotic relationship between Kelce and Philly. Rating: 5 out of 5 Nick Sirianni tears. A must-watch music video.
The Parting Glass - Not a Christmas song, but a perfect way to end the album. It's a traditional Scottish song that sums up the end of an era. Rating: 5 out of 5 Nick Sirianni tears. A final gift of hospitality.
Through their work, the Philly Specials have not only produced great Christmas music but also donated a whopping $4.5 million to local charities. Their albums are a testament to their talent and their love for Philly.