James Fenos | Columbus, OH United States | 12/18/2002
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Most holiday albums are really oversweetend by the presence of heavy orchestra, bells, chimes, vibes, choirs, etc. This album is a beautiful album of Christmas music featuring piano, guitar, sax, and one vocal performance by Michael Franks. "Christmas Time Is Here" featuring Michael on lead vocal, is changed from a piano solo piece to a lilting pop/jazz lounge song. It's pure escapist, and a delight. David's light touch on all the songs will have you playing this one over and over again."
Now THIS is music!
nightfly27 | Temple, PA | 01/04/2000
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I've been a longtime fan of David Benoit, and when shopping for new Christmas music, I happened upon this. Took it home, put it into the player, and wow. There is some awesome music on here, all of it played with a feel, and a respectfulness this music deserves. Tracks deserving specific notice include "Hark the Herald Angels Sing, on which Benoit teams with Dave Brubeck to carve a unique "Take 5" feel. The following track, "Do You Hear What I Hear," knocked my socks off with the piano work around the 2 minute mark. I highly recommend this CD for anyone who likes their Christmas music a little more modern."
A Classic for any piano/Christmas music lover
William R. Rath | OK USA | 11/07/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"What a classic album - filled with classic standards from Christmas past. While some holiday albums can leave you with an empty feeling because of the production, lack of "real" instrumentation (synthesizers, drum machines), this is a true jazz album of Christmas music. Also has great guest musicians such as John Patitucci, Earl Klugh and Dave Grusin. You have the feeling listening that you're at a Christmas party but the musicians are stealing the host's thunder! Understated, but when listened to more closely you can hear Benoit's touch on each song. Highly Recommend!"
Jazzy Christmas
William R. Rath | 02/22/2000
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Hey, This is a great album. IF you want an upbeat Christmas, get it. This album is good for any time of the year, since some of the songs aren't famous. They're all great though. I still listen to this album during the dead of summer. All of these songs especailly skating, are the BEST. I'd really suggest getting this album. You'll never grow tired of it.The first Noel(themes and variations) is the best christmas song I've ever heard. It is at first a slow, sweet song. Then it gets more upbeat and Jazzy.All these songs vary in music and style. And that's what I look for when I shop for CD's. You won't be dissapoined with this one."
A great Jazz X-Mas album
William R. Rath | 12/07/1998
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This is a great CD. The duet with Dave Brubeck on Hark the Hearald angels sing, is "Take Five" on a Christmas level. Great job. Mike Franks is great as well."