Kenny G Faith-a Holiday Album Genres:Jazz, Special Interest, Pop, R&B, Rock Kenny G currently owns the smooth-jazz soprano sax with his popular, mainstream arrangements and compositions. And on his first holiday album, despite occasionally predictable charts and phrasing, the saxman delivers a tho... more »ughtful and moving collection of songs, spirituals, and hymns, with his trademark sound wedded to several ensemble and orchestral arrangements. The G-man stretches out in "Sleigh Ride" and "Santa Claus Is Coming to Town," but these are balanced by more serious pieces such as the lovely, original "Eternal Light ( A Chanukah Song)" and "Ave Maria." There's a genuine humbleness and inspired reverence in the playing here--as in, Kenny G really means it, man. After a ghost track, "The Christmas Song," the record closes with a haunting audio history of America's last century, which runs under a revisited version of "Auld Lang Syne." Summing up a turbulent and triumphant 100 years, this one is sure to put a lump in your throat and a tear in your eye. --Martin Keller« less
Kenny G currently owns the smooth-jazz soprano sax with his popular, mainstream arrangements and compositions. And on his first holiday album, despite occasionally predictable charts and phrasing, the saxman delivers a thoughtful and moving collection of songs, spirituals, and hymns, with his trademark sound wedded to several ensemble and orchestral arrangements. The G-man stretches out in "Sleigh Ride" and "Santa Claus Is Coming to Town," but these are balanced by more serious pieces such as the lovely, original "Eternal Light ( A Chanukah Song)" and "Ave Maria." There's a genuine humbleness and inspired reverence in the playing here--as in, Kenny G really means it, man. After a ghost track, "The Christmas Song," the record closes with a haunting audio history of America's last century, which runs under a revisited version of "Auld Lang Syne." Summing up a turbulent and triumphant 100 years, this one is sure to put a lump in your throat and a tear in your eye. --Martin Keller
Patrice M. from CHARLOTTE, NC Reviewed on 1/29/2011...
Kenny G always comes through!
CD Reviews
Terrific Christmas Album
MSGraham | 11/17/1999
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Being a fan of both Christmas music and Kenny G, I eagerly awaited this CD and was not disappointed in the least. Actually, I was quite surprised by many of the arrangements - they are a very nice mix of contemporary and traditional. I especially like SLEIGH RIDE. It's very reminiscent of the instrumental version that was a big hit in the 50s. The whole CD has a very up feel and very joyful sound. If you liked his MIRACLES CD I think you'll love this new one. I believe this is an even better album. There are 2 surprise bonus tracks at the end of the cd: THE CHRISTMAS SONG and AULD LANG SYNE-MILLENIUM VERSION. While the Millenium version is interesting (the last 100 years are heard in sound bites from old radio and tv broadcasts), it is the other version on this CD that is really excellent. If you're like me and already have way too many Christmas CDs but can't resist a new one every season, this is the one to buy. A really feel-good Christmas CD."
New Kenny G Fan
MSGraham | Kansas City, Missouri | 12/02/1999
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Star 102 here in Kansas City recently began playing the Millenium Mix/Auld Lang Syne song. I called for two days trying to find out who created the song. It was much to my surprise to find out that it was Kenny G. Just like the end of the millenium itself, this is a don't miss CD. I have to admit that I only purchased this CD because of this one song. However, after listening to the whole CD, I will probably purchase other Kenny G. CD's in the future."
Kenny Captures the essence of the past!
Cheryl P. Koretzky | Houston, Texas | 11/29/1999
(5 out of 5 stars)
"A local radio station recently played the Millenium Mix piece anonymously to get audience reaction. Ninety-Nine percent of the calls were intrigued, wowed and panting to get a copy. A week later, due to the overwhelming response of calls & requests, the station revealed it was a song featured on Kenny G's Faith album. Although I'm not particularly into Christmas music, I bought this album based merely on it containing the Millenium Mix/Auld Lang Syne cut. What a delight to find the entire album such an enjoyable musical experience. It makes a great holiday gift as well!"
It brought back memories
MSGraham | 11/21/1999
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I was driving in my car when I first heard the song Millennium Mix,it brought back memories of my whole life. I have been trying to find the album in music stores. It was GREAT. I am a teacher and Im going to play it for my students. I recommend it for EVERYONE."
MOUNTAINEER
MSGraham | 11/30/1999
(5 out of 5 stars)
"A "MUST HAVE" ALBUM FOR THE HOLIDAYS! GREAT MUSIC TO DE-STRESS BY AFTER THE HUSTLE AND BUSTLE OF SHOPPING IN THE MALL!"