What's Up - Your guide to what's happening in Fayetteville, AR this week!
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DECEMBER 23-29, 2018 WHAT'S UP! 41 ROUNDUP such as Stevie Wonder's "Overjoyed." While there's something for everyone here, the downside is the lack of cohesiveness: Even though "What the World Needs Now" is given a sweeping, classical approach, to go from that to "Amazing Grace" is still a bit of head scratcher, despite a near seamless transition. Of course, it's a small quibble, like complaining that you were offered too many pie options at the holiday meal. In the end, you'll be deeply satisfied. — Nekesa Mumbi Moody John Legend 'A Legendary Christmas' Columbia Records If anyone needs a model for how to put out a successful Christmas album, look no further than John Legend. On the modestly titled "A Legendary Christmas," the singer mixes old chestnuts and new tunes, switches tempos from jazz to blues, and adds a few perfectly cast cameos. (Only Legend could get Stevie Wonder to play a little harmonica work on "What Christmas Means to Me"). Legend teams up with veteran producer Raphael Saadiq for new takes on classics, including an uptempo "Silver Bells" and a lush "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" with guest Esperanza Spalding. "Christmas Time Is Here" gets the lounge treatment, and he has nicely unearthed Marvin Gaye's "Purple Snowflakes." Legend shows off his own songwriting with the delicious throwback "No Place Like Home" and co-writes the bustling "Bring Me Love" with Meghan Trainor. The album's cover features Legend in a Santa hat and bow tie, emulating one of Bing Crosby's iconic Christmas albums. Bold move, Mr. Legend — but earned. This Christmas album is an instant classic. — Mark Kennedy