Amazon.com Alvin, Simon, and Theodore, the singing rodents, are that rare sort of novelty that has outlived its novelty aspect to become an American institution. The Chipmunks are here to stay, whether it's from children of years past remembering them fondly now as adults, or just an inherent power in the simplicity of the idea--the sheer ingenuity of speeding up human voices to the point of hilarity. This classic 1962 album features the 'Munks in all their holiday glee. They're as fresh and guileless as the Beach Boys, and their harmonies are crisp and tight, while the material is exactly the type of spirited fun kids of all ages can relate to. Be forewarned that though the album has 12 tracks, the duration is only 24 minutes. --Rob O'Connor