I was surprised to find that in this great universe of Christmas music blogs, Merry Christmas from Bonnie Guitar (Dot Records DLP 25746, Stereo) had not already been shared.
Released on LP in 1966, and (to date) never re-issued on CD, this smooth collection features a coo-ing Bonnie Guitar on vocals, complemented with period-appropriate background vocals, strings and pop ensemble (arranged by Cliff Parman) — all in the style Guitar was popular for at the time as a performer.
The album kicks off with the original "I'll Be Missing You (Under the Mistletoe)", gently breaking in the festivities for what was likely a Country music crowd. Of particular note is "It Came Upon a Midnight Clear", a great, late-Christmas Eve option for those reflective moments before bedtime, and the drum-led "Joy to the World", which the background singers amping things up.
This album may also be the first appearance of "Last Christmas" — but it's not the mega-hit recorded by '80s pop group Wham! This one is an original tune.
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