Our Review
It's always a good sign when it's time to move on to the next review, and I'm not ready yet. What's behind my reluctance is the authentic Chicago style blues sound achieved on the Mighty Blue Kings The Christmas Album and the unusual and engaging selections they chose to include.
Not shortchanging traditional Christmas music fans, they didn't forget to include their unique takes on Jingle Bells and Silent Night. But having observed the proper protocols, the Kings spent the remainder of the record breaking new holiday ground.
Of particular note were the R&B Everyday will be like a Holiday, mixing the anxiety inherent in holiday reunions with the uncertain outcome of a lover's long-awaited return, followed by the equally unrequited Just to be with You, featurning a beautiful Tito Carillo trumpet solo.
The CD is chock full of jazz, blues, and R&B riffs of the Chicago school. White Christmas, for example, is arranged and performed in a way reminiscent of the best work of Ray Charles. But the style is all Mighty Blue Kings, and this record gives a good account of their talent and musicianship.
The novelty of the selections and the freshness of the arrangements ranks this bluesy offering high on my list of recommended holiday CDs this year.
--Richard Banks
(Reviewed in 2001)
No More
Mighty Blue Kings
The Christmas Album
Artist link
Label: Hep Cat
Length: 39 minutes
Genre: Blues
Release: 2000
Track List
| Song Title |
|---|
| Christmas Time |
| Jingle Bells |
| Every Day Will Be Like A Holiday |
| Just To Be With You |
| Good Morning Blues |
| White Christmas |
| All I Ask For Christmas |
| Ole Santa |
| They Say It's Christmas |
| I've Got My Love To Keep Me Warm |
| Silent Night |