Rin' - ~Rin' Christmas Cover Songs~ Seiya

For Christmas of 2004, pop trio Rin' released an album of Christmas cover songs, appropriately titled ~Rin' Christmas Cover Songs~ Seiya. The album covers several well-known Christmas tunes, in Rin's classical pop style.

The first track, Happy Xmas (War Is Over) is a famous song by John Lennon, which Rin' do well to keep the choral, airy atmosphere. The track is pleasant and has a ambient feel, introducing the album with a softer touch, segueing nicely into the next song, Last Christmas, originally by 80's pop duo Wham!. Rin's cover of this song, arguably more tolerable than its outdated parent, includes several oriental instruments, and has a nice groove, making it a rare danceable Christmas song.

The third song from Christmas Cover Songs is the centerpiece of the album, simply titled Rin' Xmas Medley. The song weaves together a handful of Christmas standards, including Silent Night and Jingle Bells, switching from a somber orchestral arrangement, to a jazzy pops-style tune. Rin' brings in all of the moods of Christmas songs, infusing brass, electronic effects and sitar; something only this group could make. The track comes full-circle, closing with the Silent Night theme, and moves slowly into Koukyoukyoku Daikyuuban, (the Japanese name for Beethoven's Symphony No. 9). The track covers the "Ode to Joy" with a soft flute and various instruments, leaving the tune soft and peaceful.

Christmas Eve is again performed with a woodwind backbone, along with traditional Asian stringed instruments sprinkled throughout the track, which is a continuing theme through the songs Merry Christmas Mr. Lawrence, a Ryuichi Sakamoto song from the eponymous film, as well as the short interlude White Christmas.

In My Life, the last track, originating from The Beatles is only the second track to feature vocals. The song is an upbeat closer to a cheery Christmas album, and goes out on a soft flute, leaving the listener refreshed and jolly. Rin' presents a delightful collection of Christmas tracks, sure to please anyone looking for the Christmas spirit whether your an avid follower of Japanese music, a holiday enthusiast, or just someone seeking out some seasonal tunes.