The disc opens with a big band songo style instrumental of “Jingle Bells”
featuring stunning trumpet stylings by Arturo Sandoval. Sandoval is equally brilliant in
a “Santa Claus is Coming to Town” mambo.
The disc is mostly
instrumental, laced with a couple of wonderful vocal tracks, including a smoking
rendition of “Santa Baby” by Sheila E. and a must-have version of “Feliz Navidad” by Pete
Escovedo and Ray Obiedo.
I admit I wasn’t too keen on the thought of
“Silent Night” or “Angels We Have Heard On High” being included here, but the Caribbean
Jazz Project’s interpretation of both is remarkable, with mind-blowing flute solos by
Dave Valentin. These guys also bring a lovely mambo groove to “Sleigh Ride.”
The whole collection is unique, playful and will add a lovely Spanish
accent to your holiday season.