From The Friendly Skies

Another of the records I ripped earlier this year and then didn't think about until earlier tonight, this is something a little out of left field.  Jimmie McDonald appears to have been (is?) a preacher who released a series of albums in the 60's, including another Christmas record I've never seen (anyone, anyone?).  None of this is mentioned on this album, though, making me wonder who it was aimed at.  Was he trying to start a second career in more secular stuff?  Escape from a past, maybe a recording contract gone south?  I don't know, and I couldn't find any answers in a cursory Google search.  As per usual, anyone who knows more, please share in the comments!  The liner notes refer to McDonald as "the black Mario Lanza", and I can see the comparison.  His is a very operatic voice, and he lets it soar sometimes.  The conductor on this is Captain Bill Barron, pilot for Delta by day, orchestra director by night.  No sign of him on the internets, either.  The name of the record label, JAM, is probably just Jimmie's initials, and the catalog number is 1001, so this is very likely the first (only?) release on a vanity label.  I didn't do much repair work to the cover, since it was pretty beat up.  Sorry about the WDBF (formerly of Delray Beach, Florida.  DBF, get it?) stamp right in the middle of his forehead, I bet someone thought they were being really funny when they did that.  I did remove two more stamps from the back cover, though, so there's that.  Still interested?  Please be my guest, this is Jimmie McDonald And His Singers With Bill Barron Conducting The Orchestra-Spending Christmas With You (Jam Records JM 1001, Stereo, early to mid-70's I'm guessing, based on the sideburns).  Two of the songs are originals by Barron, so you've probably never heard them before.  That's something, I suppose.

1. O Holy Night
2. The First Noel
3. Sweet Baby Jesus
4. While Shepherds Watched
5. Joy, Joy, Sing Hallelujah
6. Silent Night
7. Away In A Manger
8. Sweet Little Jesus Boy
9. It Came Upon The Midnight Clear
10. Go Tell It On The Mountain

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