The Holiday Extravaganza that is the Trans-Siberian Orchestra have given fans their very first DVD movie. Now before you go any further please be aware that this is not a full live concert performance but instead a stand alone film that features the group and its music. Entitled The Ghosts Of Christmas Eve, the DVD is perfect family fare and can easily stand alongside any Christmas program collection. It was filmed in a restored theatre in Jersey City, NJ and tells the tale of a runaway girl (Allie Sheridan) who comes upon a closed theatre for shelter. Inside she meets The Caretaker (veteran actor Ossie Davis) who takes her on a magical journey into the world of Christmas and the Trans-Siberian Orchestra. Ossie also provides some narration as the film plays out. It is well-done and very heart warming for both its message and spirit for the Holiday Season. Primarily featuring the music from the first two TSO albums the film is enjoyable to watch from start to finish. Joining the TSO are Atlantic Recording Artists Michael Crawford and Jewel who contribute their fine vocal styles and add a level of star power to the release. Crawford is outstanding in his delivery of "O Holy Night", but you really cannot expect any less of a singer of his caliber. Before this was issued on DVD it was aired on television around holiday time and by having the popular singers would have guaranteed more viewers.
Segments that were highlights on the DVD would of course be the signature track of "Christmas Eve/Sarajevo 12/24", "This Christmas Day" and "Music Box Blues". As you watch the program you will see many familiar faces from the band Savatage from which this group originated from. Among them is Chris Caffery, Jeff Plate, Johnny Lee Middleton and Al Pitrelli. TSO Members that you will see include Bob Kinkel (who is also the co-creator and music director), Daryl Pediford and Mark Wood. Creator Paul O'Neill does not make an appearance in the program nor does Jon Oliva who also wrote a large amount of the music. The packaging is a thin but beautifully illustrated case with the segments listed inside. The only bonus features are a slightly different video of "Christmas Eve/Sarajevo" and some Discography information.
If you are not a fan of these types of specials there is a chance that you might not enjoy it all that much. However, I have found that the Trans-Siberian Orchestra holds an appeal over the listener that is timeless and can win over even the hardest of hearts. Give this a try.
Track Listing
1) O' Come All Ye Faithful/O Holy Night
2) Good King Joy
3) Hark! The Herald Angels Sing -- Featuring Jewel
4) Christmas Eve (Sarajevo 12/24)
5) Christmas Canon
6) O Holy Night -- Featuring Michael Crawford
7) Music Box Blues
8) Promises To Keep
9) This Christmas Day
10) First Snow
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