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Somebody pinch me! This is outstanding jazz with a flair for the unusual. Wendy Pedersen is a modern torch singer with more character in her pinky finger than most folks have in their entire bodies. What a voice! What a smokin' jazz ensemble! What a wonderful holiday CD!

Ho! Ho! Ho! presents quite the eclectic mix. First, it should be noted that this short (less than 29 minutes), six-track album has something of a split personality. Half the album is sassy and sultry; the other half is devoutly introspective. In addition, the first three tracks were recorded in November 2003; the last three were recorded in 1994-96. Although every track is an absolute treasure, there are some interesting differences. For one thing, there is noticeable synthesizer action in the older recordings, specifically in "Midnight Clear/Mary's Boy Child" and "O Holy Night." When I consider the balance between instrumentation and voice, the more recently recorded pieces work better for me--Pedersen's unique voice stands out with greater clarity.

Pedersen opens with her original "Meet Me Under The Mistletoe" (co-written with Stivers), which makes an indelible impression. Although the introductory bars are innocent enough, the artist quickly transitions into a sex-kitteny voice, and you know just what she wants to do to her man under the mistletoe. The jazz combo has a great interlude in the middle, and the music really cooks. Pederson's other original piece is the terrific final cut, "The Christmas Blues," which is a humorous and very bluesy piece of work.

The second track, "Ave Maria," is one of the best renditions I have ever heard. Often, this number receives a strict and starchy classical treatment; Pedersen's presentation, in contrast, is far more intimate. Her voice conveys a folksy warmth soaked in emotion, and the creative piano accompaniment is perfect. Outstanding.

No doubt about it--jazz lovers should go-go-go Ho! Ho! Ho! for the amazing Wendy Pedersen and this delightful holiday album.

--Carol Swanson
(Reviewed in 2004)

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From the liner notes:

Vocals: Wendy Pedersen
Piano: Mike Levine, Jim Gasior
Piano/Keyboards: Ray Lyon
Guitar: Dan Warner
Bass: Bob Grabowski, Julio Hernandez, Nick Orta
Drums: Larry Marshall, Jeff Quay, Lee Levin
Percussion: Richard Bravo

From the Web site:

Wendy Pedersen is one of South Florida's favorite performers. Her high-energy vocal delivery, with deep, convincing emotion, has been impacting audiences for many years.

Her new release Ho! Ho! Ho! is a holiday CD with a fun and intriguing mix of holiday classics and originals.

Wendy Pedersen

Ho! Ho! Ho!

Artist link

Track List