With his GQ looks and warm, seductive brass tone, trumpet player Chris Botti has what it takes to command attention. This lovely recording will appeal to deeper jazz fans as much as to easy-listening and fusion aficionados... more ». From brooding and bubbling arrangements of holiday standards to the original, radio-perfect ballad "Perfect Day" (featuring the talented horn man on vocals), Botti and his various ensembles deliver 13 tracks of comfort and joy, plus a taste of fleeting, seasonal melancholy that recalls Chet Baker. The more somber moods are brightened, however, by such merry fare as the Brazilian arrangement of "Santa Claus Is Coming to Town" and the swinging "Winter Wonderland." You probably won't hear a more romantic (or ironic) version of "O Little Town of Bethlehem," and when was the last time a Leonard Cohen tune ("Hallelujah") appeared on any Christmas disc? December is tasty throughout and highly recommended. --Martin Keller« less
With his GQ looks and warm, seductive brass tone, trumpet player Chris Botti has what it takes to command attention. This lovely recording will appeal to deeper jazz fans as much as to easy-listening and fusion aficionados. From brooding and bubbling arrangements of holiday standards to the original, radio-perfect ballad "Perfect Day" (featuring the talented horn man on vocals), Botti and his various ensembles deliver 13 tracks of comfort and joy, plus a taste of fleeting, seasonal melancholy that recalls Chet Baker. The more somber moods are brightened, however, by such merry fare as the Brazilian arrangement of "Santa Claus Is Coming to Town" and the swinging "Winter Wonderland." You probably won't hear a more romantic (or ironic) version of "O Little Town of Bethlehem," and when was the last time a Leonard Cohen tune ("Hallelujah") appeared on any Christmas disc? December is tasty throughout and highly recommended. --Martin Keller
S. F. Tye | winter springs, florida United States | 01/03/2005
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I love Christmas music. My wife complains about storing all my CDs for 11 1/2 months out of the year [yes I wait until well after Thanksgiving]. There are times during this season, often in the late evening, when I want to listen to Christmas jazz that doesn't try too hard to prove it's really jazz [and not just Christmas schmaltz] but which is still different enough to give me a break from the Christmas music that I am playing almost non-stop [as I start late, I feel it's perfectly justifiable to listen in excess]. That's when this album really comes into its own. Christmas with a dash of bluesy melancholy [and who doesn't have the occasional melancholy moment sometime during the season?].
Dave Koz and Kenny G have a wonderful Christmas sound that doesn't try too hard; great with a glass of wine. When I want a bit more jazz and a wee bit less Christmas, I go with this album. Mix a bit of melancholy with some wonderful Christmas tunes and a very talented trumpeter - presto!; you have the perfect album to have with a second glass of wine. Should the Christmas spirit convince you that a third glass is in order, you can always follow with Chet Baker!"
SWEEEET, SOULFUL CHRISTMAS!
Kathy Kohl | Belleville, IL | 11/03/2002
(5 out of 5 stars)
"From the second you start to listen to this CD you will hear Chris Botti's signature style. He just makes you feel so content and alive when you listen to his music.These Christmas tunes have a totally different feel and sound. They are smokey, jazzy, compelling and beautiful. Christmas is not usually my favorite time of year, however, this CD will make me enjoy the season more. The spirit of these songs reach out and touch you. Botti is no light weight. BUY YOURSELF A GREAT GIFT. You owe it to yourself.HAPPY DECEMBER!"
Warm, complex, refreshing - a seminal work.
J. Frazee | South Salem, NY United States | 10/31/2002
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Without a doubt, this will be one of the most played Christmas offerings this year and probably for years to come. I'll leave it to those who feel they must to make comparisons of Mr. Botti to the likes of Marsalis, Davis, even Clark Terry and others; this CD stands alone in originality and artistry. The "Silent Night" track alone is worth the purchase but every track offers sensitivity, creativity and achievements in the art of ensemble only envied by most groups. Frankly, I'd give it six stars and thank Chris Botti for his gift to us all."
Wonderful Christmas Album in July
J. Frazee | 07/23/2003
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Chris Botti's combination of smokey jazz and the christmas spirit is brought togehter like no other trumpet player I've heard. It's hard to believe, but I only heard of Mr. Botti's music last year. Ever since, I have practically purchased all his albums, simply because he has that wonderful smooth relaxing sound that calms my spirit. In "December" he holds true to this same style. Creating an environment where you feel the joy of Christmas, inviting your spirit to rest in the 'Christmas Song', 'Perfect Day', and 'Silent Night', to mention a few. This album is so inspirational, that I'm listening to it in July, over and over again. I look forward to more beautiful music from Mr. Botti."
The little drummer boy is all grown up!
DMC | New Jersey | 10/29/2002
(5 out of 5 stars)
"From the haunting beauty of "Hallelujah" to his signature trumpet riffs in "Winter Wonderland", Chris Botti delivers these holiday classics in a style that is sure to make Santa himself pause and reflect, while leaving him shimmying in his boots. So put another log on the fire, spike the eggnog, and wrap yourself up in the gift that is "December"."