A Very Swingin' Basie Christmas!
Count Basie Orchestra · 2015
44 min · 11 tracks · jazz
Joyful arrangements blend classic holiday melodies with the vibrant energy of big band swing.
Top tracks — play these first
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Jingle Bells — This lively rendition opens the album with infectious energy, setting a festive tone that showcases the orchestra's tight ensemble playing and vibrant brass sections.
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Silent Night — The arrangement transforms this traditional carol into a swinging ballad, highlighting the versatility of the band while maintaining the song's reflective spirit.
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Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas — This track stands out for its lush orchestration and emotional depth, presenting a heartfelt interpretation that resonates with listeners seeking warmth during the holidays.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
InstrumentalThe album revitalizes holiday classics with big band arrangements, showcasing strong musicianship and joyful energy.
What we noticed
- Each track features a prominent brass section that drives the melody, while the rhythm section maintains a steady swing feel.
- The arrangements often include call-and-response sections between the horns and rhythm, creating an interactive dynamic.
- Several tracks incorporate extended solos, allowing individual musicians to showcase their improvisational skills within the framework of familiar holiday tunes.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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6/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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7/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- festive party atmosphere
- joyful swing rhythms
- easygoing holiday gatherings
- nostalgic seasonal cheer
- playful arrangements for celebration
Maybe skip if you
- seeking introspective listening
- prefer minimalistic soundscapes
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released on January 1, 2015, 'A Very Swingin' Basie Christmas!' arrived as a celebration of Count Basie's legacy and the enduring appeal of his orchestra. This album followed the band's resurgence in popularity, showcasing their ability to blend traditional holiday music with the distinct swing sound that defined Basie’s career throughout the 20th century.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Glenn Miller· Benny Goodman· Tommy Dorsey
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas
The final verse shifts from a hopeful tone to one that acknowledges challenges yet still embraces joy.
This choice creates an emotional complexity that deepens the listener's connection to the song, balancing nostalgia with resilience.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Jingle Bells 2:37
- 2 Let It Snow 5:56
- 3 It's The Holiday Season 4:02
- 4 Silent Night 3:25
- 5 Good "Swing" Wenceslas 3:35
- 6 The Christmas Song 3:42
- 7 Little Drummer Boy 4:51
- 8 Sleigh Ride 3:50
- 9 Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas 5:04
- 10 Winter Wonderland 3:10
- 11 I'll Be Home For Christmas 4:31
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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