Original Release Date: September 25, 2001
Amazon.com
Cohesiveness is what separates this all-star Christmas release from the others. During the last four years, Dave Koz, vocalist Brenda Russell, pianist David Benoit, guitarist Peter White, and trumpeter Rick Braun have hit the road spreading holiday cheer among the smooth-jazz masses and their collaborative ease is palpable throughout these 14 tracks. Benoit is featured on “Hark the Herald Angels Sing,” while Koz adds one of his best solos. Braun has the spotlight on “Little Drummer Boy,” where Benoit shines too, and White highlights “Silent Night.” All five players are credited for arrangements on most tracks, the craftiest of which is the ’50’s doo-wop of “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” where you can almost hear the Drifters singing in the background. Russell also does a holiday version of her hit “Get Here,” which is as powerful now as it was 10 years ago during the Gulf War. –Mark Ruffin
Track Listing
1. Smooth Jazz Christmas Overture - Dave Koz 8:32
2. The Christmas Song - Dave Koz 4:55
3. O Tannenbaum/Sleigh Ride Medley - Dave Koz 4:04
4. Silent Night Dave Koz - Featuring Peter White 4:34
5. Beneath The Moonlit Sky - Dave Koz Featuring David Benoit 3:04
6. Little Drummer Boy - Dave Koz Featuring Rick Braun 4:27
7. Hark! The Herald Angels Sing - Dave Koz Featuring David Benoit 4:09
8. December Makes Me Feel This Way - Dave Koz Featuring Kenny Loggins 3:39
9. Boogie Woogie Santa Claus - Dave Koz Featuring Brenda Russell 3:19
10. Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas - Dave Koz Featuring Peter White 3:49
11. White Christmas - Dave Koz Featuring Brenda Russell, David Benoit And Dave Koz 3:22
12. Eight Candles (A Song For Hanukkah) - Dave Koz 3:36
13. Get Here (For The Holidays) - Dave Koz Featuring Brenda Russell 4:58
14. ‘Twas The Night Before Christmas - Dave Koz 3:57
