Reviewed by Matthew Cordle

It's worth saying from the outset that if you dislike jazz or only like traditional Christmas standards sung MOR-style, don't bother to read any further. This is one of the most refreshing collections of Christmas music I have heard for a long time. From the outset Al's inimitable soul jazz voice caresses each note, working around unusually creative revisions of each song. Not a single song is presented "straight" but each is full of what the sleevenotes call "Jarreau-isms that stretch the boundaries of traditional." If you are familiar with Al's music you'll know what to expect: intuitive phrasing, vocal harmonies, ad libs, lashings of syncopation and grooving to get your foot tapping all brought together with the highest production quality. Highlights are the exceptionally smooth "White Christmas", the acapella "I'll Be Home For Christmas" featuring Take 6, and the very free jazzy interpretation of "Carol Of The Bells". To balance these well known songs there are a couple of more unusual tracks such as "Some Children See Him", a simple song that explores how children of different races picture Jesus with their own skin colour, and a strange interlude about tapping across rooftops and jumping down the chimney with good Saint Nick! Despite this CD being marketed to UK Christian retail, this is the first we've heard that Mr Jarreau is a Christian. But believer or not, no one can deny that this is a collection of Christmas standards that is far from standard.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

Interested in reviewing music? Find out more here.