Aaron Hardin Is 'Coming Home For Christmas'



Aaron Hardin's Coming Home for Christmas is a fresh take on standard holiday tunes, and this album is the perfect blend of jazz and the Christmas spirit. Hardin isn't just Eric Roberson's keyboardist, but a producer and a mighty fine one at that. On this collection, he collaborates with such artists as Brian Perez, Levi Stephens, Steven Walker, and Kenny Wesley. Not only does he work with outstanding vocalists and musicians, but the arrangements are a testament to Hardin's talent as a true musician.
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This album's jazz sensibility is apparent from the first song. "Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen" features Nickoletta Szoke and Claudia Melton
and sets the tone with spirited piano and drum background
instrumentals. This version will have you feeling jazzier
than the original ever could. "Silent Night," another standout track,
features the voice of The Sing-Off alumni and Afro-Blue vocalist Christie Dashiell
and, my God, is it beautiful. The Temptations have left an indelible
mark in the hearts of black families everywhere with their rendition,
but her dusky voice does the harmony in the beginning complete justice
and gave me chills. It's hard to believe you're even listening to
Christmas music, and you may find yourself wanting to play this one past December 25th. Again, the instrumentals, particularly the drums are
especially good in this song.
The final song, "Have Yourself a Merry Christmas," features Chelsey Green and Carter Mason
and is heartwarming. Green, a classically trained violinist, literally
makes the strings sing in her solo. Artists that play orchestral
instruments always add something different to the mix and this was a
beautiful touch.

Coming Home For Christmas
bypasses the saccharine sentiment typical in most holiday music, instead using the improvisational nature of jazz to elevate the material in a refreshing way. This beautifully made album inspires reflection on the true meaning and spirit of the Christmas season.

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Aaron Hardin Coming Home For Christmas [Amazon][iTunes][Bandcamp]

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