TIS THE SEASON FOR CLASSICS!
POP CULTURE CLASSICS’ HOLIDAY GIFT IDEAS

Get stuffed! PCC has some notions about reasonably priced presents that are sure to knock the recipients’ stockings off!

You’ll find lots of other great stocking stuffers in our regular review column:
http://popcultureclassics.com/deja.html

DVDs
THOMAS & FRIENDS “SANTA’S LITTLE ENGINE”
The little ones will be delighted by Thomas’ cute holiday adventures on this heartwarming disc - “Santa’s Little Engine,“ “No Snow For Thomas,” “The Frozen Turntable,” “The Missing Christmas Decorations” and “Splish Splash Splosh.” “Sir Topham Hatt’s Frost Friend” game and “Guess Who?” puzzles are welcome bonus features. Thomas’ charm keeps on chugging!

“SNOW QUEEN”
Young Gerda journeys to rescue her brother Kai, who’s being held captive by the evil Snow Queen. This frosty villainess plans to turn the world into a frozen wasteland. The vibrant animation of this story, based on a Hans Christian Andersen fairy tale, will enchant all ages. It’s being released on both DVD and VOD.

“ONE DIRECTION: REACHING FOR THE STARS”
If you want to make the tweens on your list swoon, grab a copy of this new One Direction documentary, available on DVD and digital video Dec. 10. The U.K. boy band phenomenon, originally assembled by Simon Cowell for “X Factor,” has created global hysteria. This release charts their journey from that TV triumph to their sold-out show at New York’s Madison Square Garden. There’s not much music here, but fans will revel in the bio details, interviews and behind-the-scenes glimpses.

“SILENT NIGHT, BLOODY NIGHT”
If you know someone who’s into campy horror flicks, this 1973 low-budget effort will fill the bill. Featuring John Carradine in a supporting role, this is an early example of the slasher genre. When a house that had once been an insane asylum is put up for sale, an axe-wielding madman seeks to discourage potential buyers. Christmas Eve gets gory. This B-movie became a cult favorite when it was shown on “Elvira’s Movie Macabre.” And this new Film Chest HD restoration, due Dec. 10, is by far the best quality version ever made available to home viewers.

“BIG STAR: NOTHING CAN HURT ME”
Although they never achieved mainstream success, this 70s band was hugely influential (praised by such groups as The Replacements, REM and Flaming Lips). Rock fans will be spellbound by this new documentary. It offers tremendous insights into the four extraordinarily talented musicians involved - Alex Chilton, Jody Stephens, Chris Bell and Andy Hummel. Writer/director Drew DeNicola lovingly details why Big Star should have attained rock superstardom.

‘SAPPHIRE AND STEEL: THE COMPLETE SERIES”
As “Doctor Who” has proven, U.S. audiences have been ignoring British sci-fi TV far too long. Shout! Factory has released “Sapphire and Steel: The Complete Series,” a thoroughly engrossing, entertaining ITV series starring Joanna Lumley (“The New Avengers,” “Absolutely Fabulous”) and David McCallum (“The Man From U.N.C.L.E.,” “NCIS.” They winningly portray inter-dimensional agents who investigate breaks in the corridor of time. This five-disc set includes all 34 episodes, originally aired from 1979 to ‘82. It’s an ideal gift for the science-fiction fans in your life.

”MAMA’S FAMILY: MAMA’S FAVORITES SEASON 2”
“Mama’s Favorites Season 2” will soon become a much-watched DVD favorite of any viewer. Mama is the bustling, no-nonsense, razor-tongued Thelma Harper. And Vicki Lawrence plays the colorful character to the hilt in this classic 80s sitcom. She’s constantly disgusted by Ken Berry as her good-natured, dim-witted, inept son Vinton, and Dorothy Lyman, playing his saucy girlfriend Naomi. And Mama’s dismay is the audience’s pleasure. Rue McClanahan as Thelma’s prim sister (the antithesis of her “Golden Girls” role) is wonderfully amusing during a stint as an advice columnist in “Dear Aunt Fran.” When Mama’s daughters, Ellen, played by Betty White (in the “Country Club” episode) and Eunice, the one and only Carol Burnett( who guests in the “Rashomama” episode) turn up, the fun meter goes to the maximum. Also popping up in these hilarious six episodes are guests Fed Willard, Harvey Korman, Imogene Coca and Jack Gilford.

ROY ORBISON - “BLACK & WHITE NIGHT”
Those who appreciate rock ‘n’ roll’s golden era will cherish this new Sony Legacy release of Orbison’s ultimate TV special, originally aired in 1988. With Orbison’s heavenly voice still in full glory, musical director T-Bone Burnett surrounds him with a wealth of admiring backing talent, including Elvis’ TCB Band, Bruce Springsteen, Elvis Costello, Tom Waits, Jackson Browne, J.D. Souther, k.d. lang, Jennifer Warnes and Bonnie Raitt. All the Orbison classics soar, including “It’s Over,” “Only The Lonely” and “Crying.” Legacy is also releasing a 25th anniversary edition CD/DVD of ROY ORBISON: THE LAST CONCERT, recorded in Ohio in 1988. There are 14 stirring numbers on the CD. The package offers a perceptive essay by son Alex Orbison. The DVD includes a rare interview with Orbison, as well as a couple of other live performances.

CDs
“PACHA’S PAJAMAS: A STORY WRITTEN BY NATURE”
Seeking something worthwhile to give the kids? This wondrous two-CD set is a pop musical fantasy. One night, the animals and plants on Pacha’s new pajamas come to life! Among the artists performing are Mos Def, Cheech Marin, Les Nubians, Talib Kweli, and the Agape Youth Choir. The results are fun and inspirational, encouraging young people to appreciate the environment, as well as all the possibilities within themselves. The melodies are as strong as the messages. An imaginative and impressive work.

WENDY FLOWER - “FLOWER POWER”
Those fans of vintage folk-rock on your list undoubtedly revere the classic 1969 album, Wendy & Bonnie’s “Genesis.” For the children in their lives, head to wendyflower.com for Wendy’s “Flower Power” CD. Kids and their parents will warm to the 60s-style songs and messages. Themes include brotherhood, nonviolence, freedom, hope, individuality, community, the environment and animal rights. Its aim is to show kids that they can make a difference. At the same time, it keeps them enthralled with catchy tunes and clever lyrics. For grownups, there’s also Wendy’s first folk-pop album since the 60s. It’s titled simple
”NEW” and these tunes are timeless. And the gorgeous, layered harmonies will blow your minds!

“THE WAR OF THE WORLDS - THE DEFINITIVE 75TH ANNIVERSARY COLLECTION 1938-2013
This new two-CD deluxe digipak release will thrill fans of nostalgia, vintage radio, sci-fi or Orson Welles. Of course, the original 1938 Mercury Theatre On The Air production is presented in its entirety. This live broadcast caused panic and helped to build Welles’ legend. It also propelled the careers of John Houseman, writer Howard Koch (“Casablanca”) and composer Bernard Herrmann (“Psycho”). The new special edition also provides an exciting 1955 broadcast starring Dana Andrews (“Laura”), plus an intriguing 1940 radio conversation between Welles and “War of the Worlds” author H.G. Wells.

“THE CLASH HITS BACK”
The punks gathering ‘round the tree have probably worn out their old Clash records. So hand them this two-CD or three-LP set, a best-of collection that’s bursting with punk-rock fire. The Clash’s brand of protest benefited from intelligence, boldness and a willingness to mix hip-hop, funk, jazz and reggae flavors into the raw rock foundation. Younger punkers who worship Green Day will be eager to open their ears to the genre’s roots.

THE JIMI HENDRIX EXPERIENCE - “MIAMI POP FESTIVAL”
“THE JIMI HENDRIX EXPERIENCE: HEAR MY TRAIN A COMIN’”
Hendrix continues to set the imaginations of young rock guitarists ablaze. And Sony Legacy has released a couple of must-have items for classic rock fans. Forty-five years after it took place, Hendrix’s historic appearance at the Miami Pop Festival is finally available to us on CD. Recorded at the event by Hendrix’s own sound engineer, Eddie Kramer, the performances are truly electrifying. Also now available is the “Hear My Train A Comin’” DVD. It contains not only the brilliant PBS American Masters documentary, but also fabulous bonus features, including previously unseen performances from the Miami and New York Pop Festivals (both in 5.1 Stereo), as well as Love & Peace Festival and “Top of the Pops” appearances.

“CREEDENCE CLEARWATER REVIVAL”
Fantasy has released a handsome six-CD box set and it’s brimming with Bayou rock. This set gives your favorite classic rock fan not only all of CCR’s studio and live albums, but also some the band members’ rare earlier material, including tracks by Tommy Fogerty and the Blue Velvets and The Golliwogs. In addition to all the Creedence smashes, listeners will happily rediscovery forgotten gems among the album tracks. The booklet enclosed contains terrific essays and photos. This is without a doubt the CCR set to own.

HERB ALPERT - STEPPIN’ OUT”
Brighten the holidays of all those jazz fans in your life by slipping them a copy of the luminous new Alpert album. After half a century of work, this artist is still exploring discovering, finding nuances previously untouched. Alpert’s trumpet achieves a rare subtlety, sensitivity and expressiveness. From “Puttin’ On The Ritz” to “La Vie En Rose” to “I Only Have Eyes to You,” he leaves his own indelible impression on standards. Alpert’s wife, and fellow Grammy winner, vocalist Lani Hall, joins him on such classics as “What’ll I Do” and “It’s All In The Game.” He also revisits several Tijuana Brass tunes, including a remarkably poignant and dramatic “Lonely Bull.”

“MILES DAVIS: THE ORIGINAL MONO RECORDINGS”
Or give the ultimate jazz fan the ultimate new release, this nine-disc box set. Here are the first nine albums trumpet great Davis released for Columbia, newly remastered, in glorious mono, each with its own mini-jacket, replicating the original sleeves. In addition to the classic albums “’Round Midnight,” “Miles Ahead,” “Milestones,” “Porgy and Bess,” “Kind of Blue,” “Sketches Of Spain” and “Someday My Prince Will Come,” you’ll discover two less heard treasures. ”Jazz Track” includes 10 cuts Davis created for the French film, “L’Ascenseuer Pour l’Echafaud,” plus three performances from a session recorded by Davis, John Coltrane, Cannonball Adderley, Bill Evans, Paul Chambers and Jimmy Cobb - the same legendary lineup Davis later reassembled for the masterpiece “Kind of Blue.” “Miles & Monk at Newport” presents two separate sets by these jazz giants. The sounds throughout this collection are clean, clear and supremely cool.

WILLIAM SHATNER - “PONDER THE MYSTERY”
What kind of CD do you give a “Star Trek” fan? “Mystery” solved! Even as an octogenarian, William Shatner continues to boldly go into tantalizing new directions. On this new album, Shatner’s spoken word performances come from his own original lyrics. And his poetry is heartfelt, personal and insightful, touching on universal themes. Shatner’s mischievous humor occasionally peeks through. Prog rock’s Billy Sherwood produces and provides compelling musical backdrops. Guests include Mick Jones, Steve Vai, Rick Wakeman, Robbie Krieger, Dave Koz, George Duke, Vince Gill and members of Hawkwind and Tangerine Dream. Beam us up!

KATEY SAGAL - “COVERED”
Sagal is also known primarily for her memorable acting performances. But she’s no dilettante when it comes to music. She was singing background for such artists as Bette Midler and Etta James long before she starred on such series as ”Married With Children,” “Futurama” and “Sons of Anarchy.” Sagal has released two impressive solo albums as a singer-songwriter before, but now she turns to an album of covers and delivers outstanding interpretations of Laura Nyro, Joni Mitchell, Ron Sexsmith, Ryan Adams, Ray LaMontagane and Tom Petty. Her supple voice finds the deepest meaning in every lyric. She’s especially moving on a torchy rendition of Nyro’s “Gonna Take A Miracle.” Jackson Browne joins Sagal on Steve Earle’s “Goodbye.” The “Sons of Anarchy” house band, The Forest Rangers, led by Bob Thiele, ably backs Sagal on this fine album. A great gift for fans of Saga’s TV work, as well as fans of exceptional pop, rock and country music.

ERASURE - “SNOW GLOBE”
Britain’s synth-pop-dance sensations of the 80s deliver a brand new album of original tunes, as well as holiday classics, enhanced by their distinctive sound. Vince Clarke and Andy Bell bring their own brand of magic to “Silver Bells.” They give Mel Torme’s “The Christmas Song” a quirky charm. “Gaudete” is beautifully arranged and features lovely vocals, as does “Sleep Quietly.” A pretty “Midnight Clear” is another high point. There are traces of melancholy and wistfulness on the album, but also joy and optimism. A perfect holiday gift for Gen-Xers.

JOHN FAHEY - “CHRISTMAS SOLI”
Those who appreciate the subtle pleasures of acoustic music will instantly embrace this 14-song compilation of performances by the pioneering fingerstyle steel string guitarist. A fine composer himself, Fahey puts his own appealing spin on religious tunes like “Joy To The World,” “Oh, Holy Night” and “Silent Night,” as well as lighter holiday numbers such as “Santa Claus Is Coming To Town.”

GRETCHEN WILSON - “CHRISTMAS IN MY HEART”
The country star, the self-proclaimed “Redneck Woman,” serves up holiday classics, as well as new tunes. The results are pleasing, from the playful “Santa I’ve Been Naughty,” to the bluesy “If You See Rudolph” and “Blue Christmas,” to an elegantly pure “Silent Night,” to a jaunty “Holly Jolly Christmas,” to a lovely “Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas,” to a warmly jazzy ”The Christmas Song,” to the cute “I Want A Hippopotamus For Christmas.” An ideal Christmas record for country fans.

MINDY SMITH - “SNOWED IN”
This lovely EP presents two gently inviting originals from the country singer-songwriter, as well as three traditional holiday numbers. Smith’s sweet, delicate voice sounds absolutely exquisite on “What Child Is This.” Her own “Snowed In” is equally entrancing. Smith’s seasonal offering is soothing and sigh-inducing.

“CHRISTMAS WITH JUDY COLLINS”
Collins’ crystalline voice is perfect for the holidays. This new release includes material from the folk-pop artist’s “All On A Wintry Night” and adds the gorgeous “Angels In The Snow,” never previously available on CD. There’s also the addition of a stunning version of “Amazing Grace,” which begins a cappella and, even when the sparse accompaniment joins her, allows her glorious vocal instrument to fully hold the spotlight. Her “In The Bleak Mid Winter” is superb. Collins imbues “Let It Snow” and “Silent Night” with her own brilliance. And “Song For Sarajevo (I Dream of Peace)” is awe-inspiring. All 16 tracks exude Collins’ transcendent warmth.

VINCE GUARALDI TRIO - “A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS”
This year, Fantasy has put out a fun new version of the classic album. It’s the packaging that’s new and children will be delighted by a customized sleeve that folds out to create Snoopy’s doghouse. There are cut-outs of the “Peanuts” gang, with stands, so Charlie, Lucy, Linus and the original Snoop himself can listen along with your whole family. Pianist Guaraldi’s compositions, both poignant and playful, occasionally enhanced by a youth choir, capture the holiday spirit of innocence and joy. And there are bonus tracks - “Greensleeves,” “Thanksgiving Theme” and “Great Pumpkin.” Have yourself “A Charlie Brown Christmas.”

“THE CLASSIC CHRISTMAS ALBUM”
MARTINA McBRIDE, ANDY WILLIAMS, JOHNNY CASH, NEIL DIAMOND, ALABAMA, BARBRA STREISAND, GLADYS KNIGHT & THE PIPS
Whether the rest of the those on your shopping list are partial to vintage pop, soul or country, you’ll find an excellent gift among Sony Legacy’s new bevy of “Classic Christmas Album” reissues. Boomers will be especially touched by the Andy Williams album. His TV show always provided a special charm during the holidays. And his softly genial voice works wonderfully on the 16 tracks here, including “O Little Town of Bethlehem,” “The Little Drummer Boy,” “Silver Bells” and “Ave Maria.” This will bring a warm, winning musical backdrop to any Christmas celebration.

BOOKS
“CLASSIC CANDY” BY DARLENE LACEY
Can a book be considered a treat? Absolutely, particularly a book like “CLASSIC CANDY,” by Darlene Lacey. This is delicious nostalgia. The book is loaded with enticing illustrations. Here you’ll savor familiar candies and wonderfully obscure ones. There are specialty treats for Christmas, Easter, Valentine’s Day and Halloween. There are celebrities endorsing sugary favorites. Among the stars pictured being used to sell candy are Bob Hope, Ozzie & Harriet, Rambo and Gumby! The fascinating candy history reflects the ever-changing trends and quirks of our society. A yummy read.