Release Date:
Downloads include choice of MP3, WAV, or FLAC
The Canadian label Justin Time can always be counted upon to produce a diverse sounding Christmas CD, and this third compilation is no exception. Bassist Dave Young is joined by Cedar Walton and Barry Elmes for a bluesy take of "The Christmas Song while pianist John Stetch's approach to "Christmas Time Is Here" gradually takes a slightly dissonant path, and Oliver Jones, who studied piano with Oscar Peterson's sister, offers a richly textured "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas."
One of the wildest songs is "We Three Kings," with some adventurous playing by multi-reed player Michael Marcus and the late pianist Jaki Byard. Hugh Ragin leads three other trumpeters in a stunning arrangement of "It Came Upon a Midnight Clear." Highlights among the vocal tracks include Ranee Lee's intimate reworking of "Santa Baby" with guitarist Richard Ring and percussionist Denis Chiche; Johanne Blouin's relaxed approach to "God Rest Ye, Merry Gentlemen" with a trio led by John Hicks; and Jeri Brown's lovely, very deliberate duet with pianist Milton Sealy of "The Christmas Song." Overall, this Christmas collection is a very worthwhile investment.
Justin Time for Christmas, Vol. 3
Various Artists
Downloads include choice of MP3, WAV, or FLAC
The Canadian label Justin Time can always be counted upon to produce a diverse sounding Christmas CD, and this third compilation is no exception. Bassist Dave Young is joined by Cedar Walton and Barry Elmes for a bluesy take of "The Christmas Song while pianist John Stetch's approach to "Christmas Time Is Here" gradually takes a slightly dissonant path, and Oliver Jones, who studied piano with Oscar Peterson's sister, offers a richly textured "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas."
One of the wildest songs is "We Three Kings," with some adventurous playing by multi-reed player Michael Marcus and the late pianist Jaki Byard. Hugh Ragin leads three other trumpeters in a stunning arrangement of "It Came Upon a Midnight Clear." Highlights among the vocal tracks include Ranee Lee's intimate reworking of "Santa Baby" with guitarist Richard Ring and percussionist Denis Chiche; Johanne Blouin's relaxed approach to "God Rest Ye, Merry Gentlemen" with a trio led by John Hicks; and Jeri Brown's lovely, very deliberate duet with pianist Milton Sealy of "The Christmas Song." Overall, this Christmas collection is a very worthwhile investment.
