Squawk Radio

I think one reason I love "A Brasilian Christmas" so much is because it reminds me of my first Christmas as a Married Woman when I was living in Puerto Rico. (And yes, I now the music of Puerto Rico and Brazil are totally different from each other. It still reminds me of that time. Sue me.) Another reason is because the music on this CD is so lovely and mellow and beautifully complements a snowy night. Which is pretty amazing, since it's summer in Brazil at Christmastime. But there's also an unmistakable tropical climate in the assortment of songs by various artists. So even if you're living in a warmer latitude at the holidays, this CD is perfect for your celebration.

From Oscar Castro-Neves's exquisite rendition of "Ave Maria," which opens the collection, to Gilson Peranzzetta's closing "What Child Is This?" every tune is one golden, euphonic treat after another. And what a great variety in between. There's Joyce's playful "Santa Claus Is Coming to Town" and "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas," plus traditional classics like Dori Caymmi's "O Little Town of Bethlehem" and Ivan Lins's "White Christmas." There's even a South American flavored "Dance of the Sugarplum Fairies" in Global's "Dance Natahl." Every song is just really beautiful and relaxing and pleasant.

So break open the rum, and whether you warm it for a toddy or mix it with tonic over ice and throw in a lime wedge, with "A Brasilian Christmas," you're good to go this holiday season. Boas Festas, everyone!