tomswift2002
Well-Known Member
The sax solo is quite different on both mixes. The 1974 version sounds jerky, like the saxophonist was walking down stairs while trying to record the solo, while the 1984 version is a lot more smooth.
Follow along with the video below to see how to install our site as a web app on your home screen.
Note: This feature may not be available in some browsers.
The sax solo is quite different on both mixes. The 1974 version sounds jerky, like the saxophonist was walking down stairs while trying to record the solo, while the 1984 version is a lot more smooth.
I note that it is heavily edited (only a partial Como/Carpenters' Medley).
Makes sense, as the amount of commercials that air on US TV now, especially with syndicated and repeat shows is more than in the 70's. On DVD the special is about 50 minutes without commercials, whereas TV shows nowadays are usually around 45 minutes.Even more edited than the edited version?
Too soon for Christmas ?
Oh, well, not only did I listen to Carpenters' Christmas music yesterday, I also revisited this Television Special.
I love the Show--or, to be honest , the parts with Karen Carpenter on screen.
I noticed a few things:
(1) It takes quite a while before we actually get a Carpenter in the program--and, then, first up is the piano solo by Richard.
Richard Carpenter maintains that "Please Mr. Postman" look in this segment (as in, not particularly enjoying himself).
(2) Karen's vocals are buried quite a bit in the two musical numbers where everyone is on stage together singing.
(3) The segment where Karen is holding on to Rich Little--the man almost ignores her ! Am I wrong ? I'd be ecstatic.
(4) Rather than the show's producers editing the Carpenters/Como Medley at the end, why not edit the ice skating scenes,
or--heaven forbid--cut out the piano solo ?
(5) Many of these songs, here, later make their appearance as recordings on Christmas Portrait LP.
I love watching the show, as Karen looks terrific.
I'd love to isolate Karen's vocals on Sleep Well Little Children.
Comparison of 1974 to her 1978 recording makes for enchanting listening.
So again, a 1974 Album should have been recorded.
Today:
My neighbor purchased the Como Christmas Special DVD
and the 2-cd set, Carpenters Christmas Collection.
In any event, she was prompted to do so after watching the
PBS Special. She is very impressed with Carpenters......
Watching this again just now reminds me just how beautiful Karen was, as a singer and a girl.
Watching this again just now reminds me just how beautiful Karen was, as a singer and a girl.
I confess (and I know I'm in the minority on this) that I am not a fan of the "sleepy" style of Christmas album they came out with later on. I really enjoyed this different spin they put on Christmas music, and wish they'd been able to maintain that energy throughout their "Christmas Portrait" album.