The Holidays are in full swing, and Christmas is right around the corner – cue the Mariah Carey jingles. But, this year, Allan Palacios Chan decided to unleash a Christmas spectacle. “Coventry Carol/What Child is This” is a powerful piece that serves as Allan Palacios Chan’s debut single, believe it or not. It is an incredible first release and can wow even the harshest critics.
“Coventry Carol/What Child is This” is not your typical Christmas carol. Similarly to the dual naming of the single, the song has dual meanings. The former, “Coventry Carol,” has a darker, eerier sound to it. While the latter, “What Child is This,” has a more soothing, calmer tone. “We chose this music because of the contrast it provides . . . ‘Coventry Carol’ is practically secular, speaking on the horrors of the time of Judea when King Herod ordered the massacre of the innocent . . . it is a lullaby sung to the murdered children.” Philippine-born American tenor Allan Palacios Chan continues, “Then, comes the gentleness of ‘What Child is This,’ over the age-old Greensleeves ditty to create a sort of medley.” The juxtaposition makes the song immaculate.
“Coventry Carol/What Child is This,” which features acclaimed arranger and pianist Leo Z (Leonardo de Bernardini), and was engineered and mastered by Grammy Award-winning Eric Boulanger, also carries with it a music video. The production value of the visual is near perfection. The scenery, outfits, shots, and settings match the song’s themes and tones perfectly. From the snowy atmosphere to the harps, violins, and pianos to the rustic villa, mansion, or castle, the music video, by videographer and editor Landon Donoho, draws viewers in like a magnet. It is truly captivating, especially paired with the song – as the song, is already very enthralling.
“Coventry Carol/What Child is This” serves as teaser of Allan Palacios Chan’s upcoming crossover album. Opera singer Allan Palacios Chan’s upcoming debut album will showcase his versatility as the album will consist of reimagining of classic hits such as Billy Joel’s “And So It Goes” and “Zombie” by the Cranberries. But, the Holidays are here, so let “Coventry Carol/What Child is This” get you into the Holiday spirit.
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