Vocalist Nnenna Freelon can do no wrong in my book. On stage, her joy of heart exudes in every syllable that comes from her lips, while on record she keeps one foot in the tradition and one foot on intriguing experiments, ranging from Stevie Wonder to Billie Holiday. Speaking of holidays (nice segue!)…this collection of Christmas songs with John Brown’s Big Band is a beaut. Her voice is as brilliant as a star over Bethlehem, and she uses it on cleverly arranged tunes such as a take of “Little Drummer Boy” that sounds like the Grambling marching band, while velvety horns on “O Little Town of Bethlehem” come across like a heavenly host. Freelon herself is happy and perky on the “Swingle Jingle Bells” and vibrant on the “Spiritual Medley” that delivers a glorious “Tell It On The Mountain,” while an “All Blues”y groove on “Silent Night” sways like the wind blowing through the Christmas trees. You’ll love this one!
Brown Boulevard Records