Orchestral Maneuvers

Somewhere between emo and metal, there's Christmas rock. You know the stuff. It's emotive, heartstring-pulling and when the guitars really start squealing during "Deck the Halls" it's great to headbang to. Like Santa and Rudolph, this phenomenon comes just once a year, most famously in the persons of the Trans-Siberian...

By S. Anne Durham

January 1, 2009

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Somewhere between emo and metal, there's Christmas rock. You know the stuff. It's emotive, heartstring-pulling and when the guitars really start squealing during "Deck the Halls" it's great to headbang to. Like Santa and Rudolph, this phenomenon comes just once a year, most famously in the persons of the Trans-Siberian Orchestra. The 12-year-old "rock orchestra" from New York City (not Siberia) is a best-selling, internationally touring group that will really jingle your bells with their take on carols like "God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen" and "What Child Is This?," along with some originals. In the studio, the group includes a 60-piece orchestra. On stage, it has 14 musicians, 14 vocalists and two narrators. And a laser light show. Wonder how all that rock got into Christmas rock? Trans-Siberian composer/founder Paul O'Neill has managed groups like Aerosmith, Humble Pie and Scorpions. But despite all their appearance in arenas and heavy metal connections, the Trans-Siberian Orchestra is for people of all ages. People of all ages who like a little rock with their holiday emoting, that is. Trans-Siberian Orchestra performs at 3 p.m., January 3, at the American Airlines Center, 2500 Victory Ave. Tickets are $39.50 to $49.50. Call 214-222-3687 or visit AmericanAirlinesCenter.com.
Sat., Jan. 3, 3 p.m., 2009

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