Alan Merrill's biggest contribution to rock music is without a doubt that he wrote, sang and recorded the original version of "I love rock n roll" with his band The Arrows. The song has since been covered by mega stars Joan Jett and Britney Spears, and is now an enduring international rock anthem. This is Alan Merrill's Christmas album, with holiday guest cameo appearances by the stellar talents of Felix Cavaliere, Spooner Oldham, and Dan Penn sharing vocals on the track "Holiday Heroes". Alan Merrill also has vocal duets with R&B great Arthur Alexander, and famed rock poet Jim Carroll on this Christmas album. Produced by Jon Tiven, this is a clean, direct, no frills recording. Tiven's production leans to the R&B taste in music, and it fits, as there's always a soulful vocal approach given each song by Merrill. Todd Snare's amazing groove on the drums keeps toes tapping. He's one of the best drummers in modern music, having played with PM Dawn, Groove Theory and others. Jon and Sally Tiven lay down funky guitars and bass respectively, using economic parts, much like Booker T & the MG's Cropper and Dunn. Many other name guests make cameo appearances, including singer Gary US Bonds, Graham Parker, and also Vernon Reid and Muzz Skillings of Living Color adding to the festivities. This is a Christmas album that is different, and rocks harder than the average seasonal album. A fine gift for the holiday season! -------- To see a recent review go to- http://www.allmusic.com Look it up at the All Music Guide under the category of albums- Merrilly Christmas