There's a certain sameness to many Christmas CDs because so many artists focus on a relatively small group of carols and standards of the season, but that isn't the case with Hooray for Christmas! Pianist
John Sheridan formed his
Dream Band after leaving his work as a sideman with
Jim Cullum's Jazz Band, and he recruited one of his favorite singers,
Rebecca Kilgore (who is a regular guest on his CDs), for this project, while he has shared the stage with many of the musicians at various jazz parties, including cornetists Randy Reinhart and
Warren Vaché, trombonist
Dan Barrett, and clarinetists
Dan Block and Ron Hockett, among others. The upbeat "Hooray for Christmas!" was penned by
Don Sebesky and it serves as a perfect opener, showcasing
Kilgore's warm vocals. The forgotten gem "Pocketful of Miracles" features a delightful trombone conversation between
Barrett and Russ Phillips. Guitarist
Eddie Erickson is the featured vocalist in the witty "Christmas Blues," while
Kilgore is on hand for
Dave Frishberg's bittersweet "The Difficult Season."
Kilgore's romantic touch is evident in her lovely interpretation of "I Know Why and So Do You." The swinging "Cool Yule" was penned by the prolific pianist/composer/author/television star
Steve Allen, with
Kilgore's snappy vocal backed by the swinging horn section.
Sheridan wrote the lovely, touching ballad "Christmas Will Be a Little Lonely This Year," backing
Kilgore's sensitive vocal with elegant piano and
Vaché adding a touching muted solo, as the remainder of the band sits this one out. This is one Christmas CD that will stand the test of time without growing stale. ~ Ken Dryden