Press
Alligator Records' Genuine Houserockin' Christmas (2003)
Genuine Houserockin' Christmas is a 16-track compilation of holiday tunes sampling the roster of Alligator Records. These tunes capture several Chicago blues, modern soul, and zydeco artists including Koko Taylor, Lonnie Brooks, Lil' Ed & the Blues Imperials, Coco Montoya, C.J. Chenier & the Red Hot Louisiana Band, Saffire - The Uppity Blues Women, Little Charlie & the Nightcats, and Roomful of Blues. These are new Christmas tunes; you won't find "White Christmas," "The Christmas Song," or even "Merry Christmas Baby." This set is sure to become a staple for listeners seeking an alternative to traditional holiday fare.
Al Campbell
All Music Guide
The Alligator Records Christmas Collection (1992)
This entertaining CD serves a dual purpose, introducing listeners to many of the blues artists who have recorded for Alligator and giving consumers a rare Christmas blues record. The performers include Koko Taylor, Kenny Neal, Lil' Ed & the Blues Imperials, Katie Webster (on a rollicking "Deck the Halls With Boogie Woogie"), William Clarke, Tinsley Ellis, Charles Brown ("Boogie Woogie Santa Claus"),
Son Seals, Lonnie Brooks, Little Charlie & the Nightcats, Elvin Bishop, Saffire, Clarence "Gatemouth" Brown and Charlie Musselwhite. With the exception of Bishop's "The Little Drummer Boy" and Musselwhite's "Silent Night," all of the selections are originals by the artists. Although the musicians all play in the same general genre, this set has enough variety (and good feelings) to hold one's interest throughout.
Scott Yanow
All Music Guide