Inside...

Welcome to our monthly column where we share impressions and uniquely evocative (meaning they will hopefully "touch you" in a special way) recordings, worth seeking out and sampling.

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas and sounding that way, too. We have much to be thankful for in the way of music, including these fine holiday albums. All are highly recommended. Next month, a look back at the top twenty albums of the year on our nationally syndicated radio program, Musical Starstreams. Stay tuned!

OTTMAR LIEBERT - Poets and Angels (HIGHER OCTAVE MUSIC 7030) (54 min.). Santa Fe guitarist Ottmar Liebert's holiday classic. A nice mix of traditional Christmas songs and other flamenco styled guitar favorites, played in Ottmar's distinctive style.

ESTEBAN - What Child is This? (DAYSTAR PRODUCTIONS 007) (73 min.). From the Valley of the Sun comes Phoenix guitarist Esteban. A Segovia pupil that has learned his craft well, as evidenced in this generous 73 minute holiday music performance. Curiously ends with Marty Robbins' "El Paso," perhaps to give us a taste of what Esteban offers in non-traditional fare.

JOHN DOAN - Wrapped in White (HEARTS OF SPACE 11055) (49 min.). The ancient instruments Doan performs on here sets this apart as a unique Christmas album. Harp guitar, mandolin harp, viola and the Edison Home Phonograph are just a taste of the tradition Wrapped in White delivers.

VARIOUS ARTISTS - Christmas Blessings (NARADA 63919) (58 min.). All your favorite Christmas classics like Silver Bells, God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen, O Holy Night, etc., covered here by a number of Narada artists. A good album from start to finish.

R. CARLOS NAKAI & WILLIAM EATON - Winter Dreams (CANYON 2933 7007) (52 min.). This Native American flavored album came out a few years back, which means it now qualifies as a classic. Its top track is probably the absolute coolest version of "Silent Night" ever recorded, featuring the Navajo Chorale. This is a wise entertainment choice for the festive holiday season.

Please always remember that ultimately what constitutes "good" music involves the personal taste of each of us. If we direct you to an album that you didn't know existed and you end up enjoying it, then we both feel a sense of accomplishment. As always, your input is welcome. Feel free to write in care of this publication.

FOREST is the producer and host of the nationally syndicated weekly radio program, MUSICAL STARSTREAMS and can be reached at PO Box 1409, Mill Valley, CA 94942. E-mail: forest@well.com. Musicians or labels wishing to send material for review or airplay are advised that because of the huge volume already received, only compact disc releases will be considered.