What has Joe Gransden done this time? Well, like always, he as given us another great recording of great music. So what’s new this time around? Take what Mr. Gransden does so well and add a heaping spoonful of holiday cheer and we get I’ll Be Home for Christmas. Complete with Joe Gransden, big band and strings. This is a great holiday recording with songs that everyone loves. From the first notes, you can hear and feel the Christmas Spirit clearly ring out.
Gransden’s musical reach continues to expand. This project mixes his sophisticated vocal style and his buttery, lyrical jazz trumpet lines with Jeff Jarvis’ originally fresh arrangements that will certainly put a lift in any "Bah Humbug’s" steps. I’ll Be Home for Christmas awakens memories of the classic 1950s and 1960s holiday recordings done by superstars Dean Martin, Bing Crosby and Tony Bennett. Just close your eyes and listen. Feel the excitement, joy and positive anticipation of the holidays created by the music and the musicians.
Known for his jazz playing and singing, Gransden goes out on a limb and creates a true "holiday" recording that transcends musical styles. It’s just plain fun. The Ballads are rich with feeling. The cheerful carols are sassy and full of energy. The children get involved as well. The Sixth Grade Singers from Atlanta’s Kittredge Middle School have fun they will likely never forget when they join in on "Up on the Housetop." Just listen!
Next, Mr. Gransden vocally flirts with guest artist Terri Harper on "Baby Its Cold Outside." Listen as he really works his charm while Ms. Harper plays hard to get. This is classic "cat and mouse." What happens next? You decide. The recording closes with a deep and moving rendition of "Ave Maria."
I’ll Be Home for Christmas shows Gransden’s love for the holidays. As he said recently, "I wanted to create a holiday recording, not a jazz record of holiday music." Cheers and well done!
