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The Hanukkah Lounge is an excellent compilation described by producer/performer Craig Taubman as the "first ever Hanukkah lounge-trance CD" and as "Instrumental Jew Age Music." What a concept! First off, although the ChristmasReviews.com site has always officially welcomed Hanukkah music, precious few releases come our way (might have something to do with the Web site's name). Second, and this is related to the first point, I know very little about Hanukkah music, recognizing only a few pieces. Third, how exactly does one spell Hanukkah, anyway? No exact English translation for the Hebrew word apparently exists, and there must be a million variations, including three that are reflected on this release alone (Hanukkah/Hanukah/Chanukah). However you spell the holiday, The Hanukkah Lounge is a rare treat and an impressive find.

Instrumental Jew Age Music? That's a funny and fair description of this superbly crafted and professionally executed album, which certainly possesses the best aspects of good new age fare. This is electronic mood music that soothes, yet stimulates, and would provide an excellent backdrop for holiday affairs or quiet moments of thoughtful contemplation. For those of us who are unfamiliar with most of the underlying Hanukkah tunes, the album is filled with mesmerizing melodies and addictive rhythms that are eminently listenable all year 'round. Although this is essentially an instrumental release, vocalizations do appear in several spots, most notably in Yuval Ron's exotic and rhythmic "Sura."

Everything is very well done here. There are twelve tunes reflecting eleven artists, with Craig Taubman appearing on multiple cuts (1,4,6). This is smooth lounge music with character and passion, and I truly enjoyed listening to every number. My favorite tracks include Taubman's opening "Maoz Tsur," which sets the intriguing tone with electro-synth stylings that pull in listeners from the first bar and sporadic "vocal" accents (done at a distance and sung in Hebrew). Other great moments are Bob Parr's haunting "S'vivon," which incorporates a lovely piano refrain that repeats throughout, and the more intense "Descarga Ocho Kandelikas" by the Afro-Semitic Experience.

Love Hanukkah music? Then this album is a no-brainer. Unfamiliar with Hanukkah music, but curious about experiencing the genre with top-notch musicianship in an accessible format? Then you may want to spend some serious time in The Hannukah Lounge this season--or any time of the year!

--Carol Swanson
(Reviewed in 2005)

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From the liner notes:

Compilation produced by Craig Taubman

The Hanukkah Lounge is an eclectic mix of smooth-mood-inducing holiday classics by world renowned producers and Grammy award winning artists. Whether celebrating with family or throwing a holiday party with friends, kick back, chill and enjoy the Lounge!

Various Artists

The Hanukkah Lounge

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Track List