The Bull in Full

O Holy Night -- The Good, The Bad, and the Hilarious

I'm not sure when it was that I decided I really liked the song, "O Holy Night."  I think growing up, I really didn't like it -- just a christmas song you couldn't sing along with.

Somewhere along the way in my actual vocal training, I came to respect what it took to nail those high notes, and when the song is done right, it's a special song.  And yet, forgive the weird metaphor, there's something in it that's like one of those Japanese obstacle course game shows.  When singers get through it in tact and on their feet, it's really impressive.  And then there's times when people who clearly shouldn't be out there try it, and it's just painful. And best of all, there's the in-between, when things go wrong in terrible ways that just can't help but be funny. 

The impetus for this came from a version on an otherwise excellent Chieftans album where someone by the name of Rickie Lee Jones absolutely murders the poor tune (see below).  Things like that need to come with a warning label, and preferably with a guide to where you can find something better.

That's why I'm trying, as Dec 25, 2009 draws to a close, to provide my guide the most O Holy Night versions out there.  Don't thank me, it's just my job.  As a blogger.  Kinda.

Weirdest Nigerian-like Scam Spam Ever

Just got this today.  I gaped at it a bit before busting out laughing.  Enjoy.

Dear in Christ,
 
This is a personal email directed to you and I request that it be treated as such. God is a spirit, and they that worship him must worship him in truth and in spirit.
 
I am Barrister Ayorinde Micheal and also one of the Honorary Advisor of Churches Together in Britain and Ireland, England and also the legal adviser to late Mr. Mike & Carol Hall, a God fearing and dedicated couple. They were very wealthy but had no child. They travelled to Patong-Thailand for Christmas holiday but met death on the 26th of December 2004 during the Tsunami disaster http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/bristol/4153821.stm).
As their legal adviser, before their death, the husband Mr. Mike Hall instructed me to write his WILL, because they had no child, he dedicated their wealth to God. They had a lot of landed properties houses Stocks/bonds, etc. According to the WILL, their assets should be given out to a ministry for the work of God.
 
However before I proceed to revealing what the Lord has directed me to do I want you to answer the following question(s).
 
1. according to John chapter one, Jesus Christ is what?
2. How does a person become a born again Christian?
3. Do you believe in the rapture of the church?
4. If you do believe in the rapture, then when will it come in relation to the tribulation?
5. At what point during the tribulation does the Battle of Armageddon explode?
6. If I would ask you for one Scripture above all others in the New Testament that should identify you as being a brother in Christ, what would it be?
 
These questions should not offend you. All spiritual brothers and sisters in Christ that have spent time in God's word and understand it.
 
My God is not an author of confusion; contact me immediately on my Direct Email:<redacted> for further discussion.
 
Thanks.
Brother Ayorinde Micheal.
London,UK