Original 'Grinch' still the best

The Soundtrack to Dr. Seuss' 'How the Grinch Stole Christmas!' and 'Horton Hear a Who!' By various artists Rhino Records: 2000

by Jim Trageser
This review first appeared in the December 15, 2000 edition of the American Reporter.

Jim Carrey may be getting all the Grinch press this year for his live-action portrayal of Dr. Seuss' green Scrooge, but for two generations the animated TV special remains a part of the holiday season. Rhino has now (late last year, actually) released the full soundtrack from the 1966 show, with Seuss' story narrated by Boris Karloff.

Everything but the commercials is included, with all those great songs – including "You're a Mean One, Mr. Grinch" sung by the truly incomparable Thurl Ravenscroft, who also provides the voice for the Tony the Tiger cereal commercials.

Even without the video, the story has held the attention of our 9- and 7-year-olds through repeated listenings. And as a bonus, the complete and full soundtrack to "Horton Hears a Who!" is also included – and also continues to enthrall.