Reviewed by Ian Webber

For five years now Rottweiler Records have produced a Christmas compilation 'Fleas Naughty Dog' (Feliz Navidad), featuring a range of their heaviest acts. This 'Best Of' brings together 21 tracks from this collection including some new material too. Like many Christmas compilations there is a real mixed bag of some pleasant surprises and also a few uninventive, tired tracks. Among the best cuts on offer are the pop-punk inspired "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen" from Goodnight Wednesday, along with the double pedalled bass of Iron Sharpens Iron on "O Come, O Come Emmanuel" (a track that appears three times in different guises). The Altar Billies reprise an Altar Boys classic in "Silent Night" providing a little texture to the recording. In many cases this is, however, just a collection of well-known Christmas songs played loud and fast which can be found on many similar recordings. The quantity of material on offer is worth wading through as there are a few gems to find. "You're A Mean One, Mr Grinch" is engaging and "What Child Is This" by Coriolis is intriguing with its vocal in the style of Brian 'Head' Welch. This latter title is only let down by an ice cream van inspired jingle that bookends the track. There are however too many forgettable tracks to warrant a strong recommendation.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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