A Merry Christmas!
Stan Kenton · 1961
40 min · 13 tracks · jazz · swing · progressive jazz
Orchestral arrangements blend with rich jazz textures to create a festive yet sophisticated holiday sound.
Why this album works
This album is significant for its unique take on Christmas music, blending jazz with familiar carols, which set it apart in the genre. It has influenced subsequent jazz artists looking to merge seasonal themes with complex arrangements, contributing to the evolution of holiday jazz standards.
- Career context
- By 1961, Stan Kenton was solidifying his reputation as a leading figure in orchestral jazz. 'A Merry Christmas!' followed his successful album 'Adventures in Jazz' (1959), showcasing his ability to reinterpret traditional holiday music through a progressive jazz lens, further establishing his innovative style.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Dave Brubeck· Tom Scott· McCoy Tyner
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 O Tannenbaum 1:55
- 2 The Holly and the Ivy 1:50
- 3 We Three Kings of Orient Are 2:13
- 4 Good King Wenceslas 1:43
- 5 The Twelve Days of Christmas 4:04
- 6 Once in Royal David's City 2:02
- 7 God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen 1:43
- 8 O Come, All Ye Faithful 3:14
- 9 Angels, We Have Heard on High 2:09
- 10 O Holy Night Standout 2:07
- 11 Christmas Medley: Joy to the World / Away in a Manger / The First Noel / We Wish You a Merry Christmas / Hark! The Herald Angels Sing / Silent Night Standout 8:21
- 12 What Is Santa Claus? Standout 2:29
- 13 Christmas for Moderns: The First Noel / White Christmas / O Come All Ye Faithful / The Christmas Song / Silent Night / Jingle Bells 7:04
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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