Yule Struttin': A Blue Note Christmas

Yule Struttin': A Blue Note Christmas

A delightful mix of Christmas songs from 1990, along with a few earlier recordings including Chet Baker's "Winter Wonderland," Count Basie's "Jingle Bells," Dexter Gordon's "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas," and Stanley Jordan's 1986 rendition of "Silent Night." It showcases an array of top jazz talents such as Bobby Watson, Lou Rawls, Eliane Elias, and Benny Green, who contributes two piano solos. The album also features the exceptional talents of Dianne Reeves, John Hart, John Scofield, Joey Calderazzo, and Rick Margitza.

In "Yule Struttin': A Blue Note Christmas," each featured artist infuses the Christmas classics with their distinct flair, transforming familiar melodies into fresh, jazz-infused interpretations that stand apart from typical holiday fare. The album's unique charm lies in its ability to marry traditional holiday spirit with the sophisticated nuances of jazz, a genre known for its rich expressiveness and depth. The inclusion of "A Merrier Christmas," a composition by the legendary jazz pianist Thelonious Monk, is a particularly notable highlight. This piece, less known in the realm of holiday music, is presented in two distinct versions, showcasing the versatility and creativity inherent in jazz. Benny Green's rendition is a piano-centric interpretation, where his skillful play brings out the intricate melodies and harmonic complexities of Monk's composition. Green's approach is both respectful to the original work and inventive in its execution, offering listeners a chance to experience a classic jazz sound melded with holiday cheer. On the other side, Dianne Reeves brings her version of "A Merrier Christmas" to life with her rich, emotive vocal style. Reeves, known for her ability to convey deep emotion through her singing, interprets the piece in a way that highlights its lyrical beauty. Her version is imbued with a warmth and soulfulness that resonate with the listener, adding a vocal dimension to Monk's composition that is both heartfelt and poignant. Together, these two renditions of "A Merrier Christmas" serve as a testament to the album's overall theme — a celebration of the holiday season through the lens of jazz. They exemplify how classic compositions can be reimagined and revitalized in the hands of talented jazz artists, offering something familiar yet entirely new. For those seeking a departure from conventional holiday music, "Yule Struttin': A Blue Note Christmas" is an invaluable addition. It’s not just a collection of songs but an exploration of the rich intersection between jazz and Christmas music. The album invites listeners to experience the holidays through a jazz perspective, where the joy and nostalgia of the season are expressed in sophisticated, melodious tunes.