This Christmas jazz album has a wide variety of generally enjoyable performances by 16 different groups. High points include a funny version of "Baby, It's Cold Outside" by singers
Dianne Reeves and
Lou Rawls, a
Herbie Hancock-
Eliane Elias piano duet on "I'll Be Home for Christmas," and
Holly Cole's "Christmas Blues." The other performers include
Herb Alpert with
Jeff Lorber,
Fourplay (featuring
Lee Ritenour),
Diana Krall,
Stanley Clarke,
Michael Franks,
the Brecker Brothers,
Cassandra Wilson,
John McLaughlin,
Steps Ahead,
Anita Baker (out of place but okay on "The Christmas Song"),
Dave Koz, and
Dr. John. Although not a classic release, most of the performances are rewarding. ~ Scott Yanow, Rovi