NAVIDADES - LUIS MIGUEL
Mexican crooner Luis Miguel’s first foray into holiday fare doesn’t include a single “Latin” Christmas track but instead consists entirely of translated Christmas standards. The repertoire is consistent with the big-band arrangements of this set, although hearing these songs in Spanish may be disconcerting to some, particularly in the cases where the lyrics diverge completely from the originals. If that doesn’t bug you, however, “Navidades” works. Miguel is a traditional balladeer, and his traditional arrangements work well for uptempo numbers (”Santa Claus Llego a la Ciudad”) and string-laden, contemplative fare (”Estare En Mi Casa Esta Navidad”). Standouts include the closing “Noche de Paz” (Silent Night), which incorporates a gospel chorus and plenty of swing in the beat. Billboard (WEA Latina)
