Review and More

Our Review

Jack Weston (vocals, acoustic guitar) and Jeff Elstad (acoustic and electric guitars) are two very talented guys. Weston's voice is terrific--rich and emotional, but gentle. Elstad's sensitive guitar work is similarly first class.

The CD features 10 cuts, split evenly between the familiar and lesser-known. The music is a mix of pop, jazz, and country/folk, and all selections gently warm the spirit. There are several holiday originals here: "In Mary's Eyes" (written by Weston and Catherine Murray), "Winter's Twilight" (Elstad), "Cinnamon" (Elstad), and "Bethlehem" (Elstad); all are top rate. Elstad's pieces are excellent, introspective solo guitar instrumentals, and they are smartly interspersed among the vocal selections, providing a pleasing balance.

For the most part, these holiday offerings are presented on a relatively unadorned platter--just Weston's voice with light accompaniment or Elstad alone with his guitar. The production levels are ratcheted up for the title number "Let it Snow, Let it Snow, Let it Snow!", and it works well as a fun and lively addition to the more reflective numbers. The CD ends nicely with a heartfelt rendition of "White Christmas."

All in all, "Let It Snow!" is a winning Christmas offering well suited to diverse musical tastes. Consider bringing Jack & Jeff home for the holidays.

--Carol Swanson
(Reviewed in 2004)

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From the liner notes:

Jack Weston: vocals, acoustic guitar; Jeff Elstad: acoustic guitar, electric guitar; Brian Peters: electric guitar, steel guitar; Mark Mueller: keyboards, bass, strings, piano; Scott Nelson: drums, percussion, background vocals; Kathy Mueller: background vocals ("Let it Snow, Let it Snow, Let it Snow!")

From the web site:

For years Minneapolis-based musicians Jack Weston and Jeff Elstad blended their guitars and vocal harmonies -- from coffee shops to bookstores, nightclubs to concert halls, their passion and unique stlye have grown a loyal, local following. Their previous two solo albums have seen radio airtime across the nation. Hits such as "Her Daddy's Resting Place" from Jack Weston's "Only Dreams" album and "34th Avenue" from Jeff Elstad's "Cedar Moon" won acclaim from DJs, critics and fans alike. Television, radio and newspaper features have recently propelled Jack and Jeff into the spotlight of the Minneapolis and Midwest music scene.

Jack Weston & Jeff Elstad

Let It Snow!

Artist link

Track List