Bottom Line:Although I would not classify this album in the country genre, it scored very high with me because it is very simply incredible music. The jazzy interpretations of some classic songs make it a very unique and elegant album that stands out in the crowd. It is the absolute perfect CD to pop in for a romantic evening during the holiday season or as background music for quiet holiday get together. It will compliment any music collection.
Raul Malo has released one of my favorite Christmas albums this year, and it is fast becoming one of the favorites in my fairly extensive collection. Malo, former lead singer of The Mavericks, has a voice that stands out in the crowd. It is as smooth as aged whiskey and with this jazzed up holiday collection he invokes the enviable ability to take you back in time. You can almost picture yourself in a smoky nightclub back in the days of Frank Sinatra with a small dose of Bing Crosby in the wings. Throw in a pinch of Buddy Holly and a shake of Elvis Presley and you have hit on the recipe for fun. His interpretation of the music is unique, yet with his voice the choices of arrangements are absolutely perfect. Malo's delivery appears effortless and you are drawn into the music as you hear old favorites with a very different twist. Big Band with a country beat in the background and the mellow sounds of Jazz on the side.
Every year I seem to find a song or two that I like to listen to more than others through the Christmas season. This year it is definitely
"Marshmallow World" that makes me keep hitting replay over and over and gives me that warm inside glow. It has more of a Big Band, Sinatra-type sound to it and the lyrics are a metaphoric journey that will make you smile and think of a storybook Christmas season. When I think of the ideal holiday, I think crisp, clear days with gently falling snow. Soft white clouds floating by and lovers strolling hand in hand listening to the laughter of playing children and the world in those moments can certainly be compared to a big marshmallow.
The rest of the album is just as fun, with nine of the eleven tracks being old holiday favorites with a new twist. The second original song they include is "Not So Merry Christmas." The sound on this one was reminiscent of a slowed down Buddy Holly era. It is also a beautiful song, but much sadder as it visits a holiday spent alone.
"Jingle Bells" is turned into a Bluesy/Jazz number and was actually a refreshing and fun turn for an old favorite. It grew on me as I continued to listen to the album.
He closed the album with a whistled version of "Winter Wonderland" that was a lighthearted end to a well rounded album. I absolutely recommend it for a balanced holiday music collection.
Track List:
- Marshmallow World
- Not So Merry Christmas
- Jingle Bells
- Silent Night
- White Christmas
- Santa Claus Is Back In Town
- I'll Be Home For Christmas
- Blue Christmas
- Silver Bells
- Feliz Navidad
- Winter Wonderland
