Alvin Pope - "Christmas Time Is Here" - Choir Boy Productions
In his own words, Alvin Pope describes the inspiration for his new holiday track. “The holiday season is a magical time of the year, especially for children. As a child, I have fond memories of eagerly anticipating the airing of several Holiday Specials on television. “A Charlie Brown Christmas” remains one of my all-time favorite episodes, bringing out the inner child in me. I aimed to create a contemporary arrangement that captures the essence of the song “Christmas Time Is Here,” drawing inspiration from the Peanuts Holiday Special of my childhood. Jazz music is a fantastic way to introduce young audiences to the world of music while bridging generations. Whether you’re a child or a child at heart, I hope you enjoy this modern rendition of a timeless classic!”
Fostina Dixon – "Jingle Bell Funk" - Fossiebear
When you think of the holidays, festive images come to mind. No matter where you are, music enhances the occasion. Fostina Dixon collaborates with Alvin Clayton Pope to deliver a funky twist on a classic with “Jingle Bell Funk.” As they put it, “We wanted to create a track that is fun, jazzy, and lively.” This rhythm-driven tune sets a perfect mood for the melodic classic, offering a jazzy, funky treat. So, whether you’re trimming the tree, hanging decorations, or wrapping presents, get your groove on with this upbeat track that will keep you moving all season long! Writers: Fostina Dixon & Alvin Clayton Pope, Arranger and Producer: Alvin Clayton Pope, Co-Producer: Fostina Dixon, Mixed and Mastered by: Alvin Clayton Pope.
Penni Layne - Warm In December - Independent
Jazz vocalist Penni Layne warms up Christmas with the upbeat, hopeful, and romantic “Warm in December”. The straight-ahead jazz album of seasonal standards dropping November 29 will be celebrated at a December 13 concert at Boston’s Regattabar. For many, Christmastime is a feeling more than a religious occasion and jazz singer Penni Layne ventured to capture the enchanting feelings of the holiday season and set them to music via a ten-song setlist comprised of classics and an original song that she wrote with her coproducer Larry Jackson. Backed by a jazz quartet, Layne’s “Warm in December” arrives on November 29 from Upside.
Joy Lapps & Larnell Lewis - The Caribbean Christmas Mixtape Vol. 1
Joy Lapps, an artist, educator and composer with Antiguan roots and a master’s degree in steelpan composition in jazz, pushes the boundaries of steelpan-led music. Her husband Larnell Lewis, artist, educator and a member of the Grammy Award-winning band Snarky Puppy, brings his St. Kitts heritage and mastery of jazz, soul, R&B, gospel, and Caribbean genres. With its playful approach, accessible nature and diverse blend of Caribbean influences, the album flows effortlessly from one musical adventure to the next. Warmly invited, listeners will experience Larnell Lewis and Joy Lapps’ community with all its flare, sincerity and humor. Stuffed with innovation, ornate with glistening musicality, The Caribbean Christmas Mixtape Vol. 1 is a feast for the mind, release for the body, and a balm for the soul. Personnel: Rich Brown, Elmer Ferrer, Andrew Stewart, Rob Christian and Jeremy Ledbetter and world-class vocalist Justin Bacchus and Subria Lapps.
Judith Owen - Swings Christmas - Twanky
Consummate Entertainer Brings Nostalgia With A Modern Twist That Will Have You Dancing Around The Christmas Tree! Casting a unique, joyous and only-in-New Orleans spin on beloved holiday tuneage, “Judith Owen Swings Christmas” is set for release in time for the holidays via Twanky Records. Recorded at Esplanade Studios in the Big Easy over the course of a week with the help of her JO Big Band, “Judith Owen Swings Christmas” gets you in the holiday mood with seven Big Band classics old and new and was produced by Judith Owen and Grammy-winner John Fischbach. The album was mastered by Grammy-winner Misha Kachkachishvili with Big Band song arrangements by John Wasson.