I recently heard the new recording of 12 Days on XM radio at work. I have to be honest... I thought it was another group singing. I hate to be critical, but there was a certain amount of spontaneity in the original recording that seemed to be missing. While I know fully well that you guys rehearsed before that concert in college, the performance was so well done that when I first saw the video a couple of years ago (which is what drew me to your music), it took a few seconds to realize that what I was seeing and hearing was intended.
This new recording just seems too rehearsed, too polished. The spontaneity is gone. The singing is, as to be expected, great, but there was something lacking. It wasn't funny. Again, I hate to be critical, but I love the way you guys did it originally. I really was hoping it was another group singing your music.
I'd love to make this a constructive criticism, but I really do not have any advice to give. Sadly, this will come across as a general complaint. For that, I am sorry. This is just my opinion and I'm probably in the minority. Take it for what it is.
I have Holiday Spirits and I am aware of the differences between live and studio versions. The problem is that, by their choosing or not, this is their "signature" song. The live version is the very first song that most people hear. As such, there are certain expectation about the performances of that song.
In my personal opinion, I do not think it should have been re-recorded.
My guess is that the studio version isn't quite as fun, for obvious reasons. Did you know that there is a live version available, though, on Holiday Spirits? (someone correct me if I got that wrong)
They have been doing this song for years now... i think it has just become natural and they are probably tired of it, perhaps its just become an old song.... but christmas can-can is refreshing! :D
Mark, I know what you mean. I think the difference between the original recording and the new recording is that the first one was live.....this one was a recording studio version.
Dave