Crescent Noon

An early recording by Karen Carpenter circa 1968 or so. Below, you'll find an amazing early recording of the Richard Carpenter penned Crescent Noon, a song that would later appear on their major breakthrough A&M Records album Close to You.

She's performing here with the California State University of Long Beach choir under the director of Frank Pooler, co-author of the classic Merry Christmas Darling. 

This recording reveals some major changes in phrasing compared to the version Carpenters fans have come to know. It's a nice switch up- and to hear Karen hit those low notes at such a young age is a wonder. It's almost effortless, but I guess that was part of the reason so many took her for granted. The woman was made to sing- and her legacy continues on.

Not Quite a Merry Christmas, Darling

Some songs are better left alone. Merry Christmas Darling by the Carpenters is one of them. But given the popularity of the hit television show Glee, and its propensity of non-stop remakes of popular tunes, you can't blame them for giving it a try.

Granted, I've only heard a shot clip of the version by Lea Michele, but her take on this classic and beloved song by Karen Carpenter is breathy and high pitched, dramatic and somewhat, somehow, slightly endearing. She is a very talented young woman. Yet, her version does not bear up under scrutiny compared to the original. 

To be fair, no one's take on this Richard Carpenter / Frank Pooler song does- not even Amy Grant's ode to hubby Vince Gill. (And any reader of this blog knows I love Amy's music; Vince's too.)

Props to the producers of the show to include this song on their show. Hopefully, it will expose a whole new generation of music lovers to the music of the Carpenters. For that, I am thankful.