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Free Music Notes for Smooth Jazz ChristmasFree Music Review: Almost as good as the real thing Hit: 5 Stars
Having just caught Dave & Co last evening in Reading, PA, I was pleasantly surprised by how close to the live show that the disc came. From the opening notes of the overture through the whole disc, Dave, David, Peter, Rick, and Brenda shine. Particular tracks that stand out would be David Benoit's 5/4 take on "Hark the Herald Angels Sing, arranged in obvious homage to Dave Brubeck. Peter White's guitar was never more melodic than on Silent Night, and Rick Braun's salsa take on Sleigh Ride is an ear catcher. Perhaps one of the underrated track would be the Benoit/Koz-penned instrumental "Beneath the Moonlit Sky", which is a simply beautiful melody, never overbearing, and featuring a mellow side of the Koz. No one artist takes the spotlight too much, the songs are varied, joyful, and very listenable, and you can tell that these are musicians who love what they do. If you like joyful holiday music, this is a must buy. It's the rare CD that can capture the energy of a live show, but this one can. You won't be disappointed.
Free Music Review: Koz got it better this time! Hit: 5 Stars
The sax master's earlier solo Christmas effort was rather sleep inducing, lacking some of the edge and life that so propels most of his music. This edition of jazzed up holiday tunes benefits greatly from the addition of friends Benoit, Russell, Loggins, and others. Each offers their unique styling that serve to compliment the heavenly sax work of Koz. The medley of favorites that serve as the basis for the "overture" sets the stage for the entire disc. Each subsequent song is right on the mark as a blend of pop and jazz, so familiar to contemporary audiences. An album highlight is Loggins taking the lead on "December Makes Me Feel This Way", a tune written by Koz and performed by him on the album of the same name. While Koz is passable as a singer, Loggins definitely has the vocal tool to get the job done. A "fun" extra is "Twas the Night Before Christmas" with all reciting (Or is it "rapping"?) a verse to the perennial favorite, while a nice rift plays in the background.
Free Music Review: In the Spirit of the Holidays... Hit: 5 Stars
I know many people don't think of playing Christmas/holiday music until after Thanksgiving. Take it from me, you'll want to listen to this CD now! It will put a smile on your face and joy in your heart. It will give you hope in a world looking for answers. This is a CD that you will want to listen to in the heat of the summer to cool you off. Dave and friends have been touring with this show for several years now and this CD truly captures the fun and camaraderie of these artists. We, the fans, have been waiting for this CD for years. There's even a beautiful new song "Beneath the Moonlit Sky" by Dave and David! THANK YOU, Dave!! And THANK YOU David, Peter, Brenda, Rick, Stevo, Brian, Rubberhand Man, and Tony for giving us the opportunity to share this joy with others throughout the year! Now those of you who haven't have the chance to see this show, can see what you've been missing! Buy several of these CD's for home, office, car and for gifts! You WON'T be disappointed!
Free Music Review: If you liked this... Hit: 5 Stars
If you liked this, do a search for Terry Zylman. His CD "Moods of the Season" is wonderful. While it contains many of the Christmas classics, my favorite songs are the ones you won't find on other CD's. "Joseph's Song" is incredibly poignant and moving while "Fireplace" is dreamy and soothing. Many of you will recognize "Christmas Time is Here" from "A Charlie Brown Christmas". Mr. Zylman is an incredibly gifted musician, who has created a timeless listening experience you will enjoy for years to come. Amazon will link you to MP3 downloads where you can enjoy a sampling, or download the entire 16 track CD. "Smooth Jazz Christmas" is one of my favorites during the holiday season, and my favorite of Dave Koz' Christmas CD's. Not only do you get to enjoy Koz, but several other talented artists as well. I think my favorite track is "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" but the "Smooth Jazz Christmas Overture" medley is terrific. Happy Holidays!
Free Music Review: A Great Addition to any Christmas Music Collection Hit: 5 Stars
Dave Koz's blend of jazz and new age easily finds a home in holiday music. His holiday album A SMOOTH JAZZ CHRISTMAS is an interesting mix of Koz's musical gifts and flair. Koz includes many Christmas standards, as well as some lesser known pieces and some original works. The opening "Smooth Jazz Christmas Overture" is a medley of Christmas favorites that gets a person in the holiday spirit. Brenda Russell joins Koz for an updated version of the Patti Page classic "Boogie Woogie Santa Claus." Kenny Loggins adds his vocal talents in the beautiful and refelctive "December Makes Me Feel This Way," a song which celebrates the magic of this time of year. "Eight Candles" is an upbeat musical piece paying tribute to Hanukah. This is a worthy addition to any Christmas collection.
More Free Music Notes: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
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