If you're feeling a little "bah, humbug" this holiday season, we wouldn't blame you. 2020 has been one hell of a year (emphasis on "hell") and we're all just looking forward to its end. Still, it is the holidays and many people are finding ways to get in the spirit. One very quick way to shake your Christmas blues is by checking out the latest installment of NPR Music's Tiny Desk Concert series, which features none other than Cory Henry.
The former Snarky Puppy member blesses series with two selections from his recently released holiday album Christmas With You — "Misty Christmas" and the set's title track. "Misty Christmas" is a completely instrumental track that uses musical cues to pick up on the nostalgia of the holidays. He approaches the song on keys while drummer TaRon Lockett helps him keep the rhythm and the two play off each other. The set comes to a tinkling halt before Cory breaks things up with a heartfelt message to all those watching.
"May these songs fill you and your family with joy and happiness," he says in the video before leading into "Christmas With You." The song plays up his jazz chops while incorporating the names and melodies of some of the timeless Christmas recordings as Cory Sings about his holiday memories. His excitement and joy about the holidays are felt in every note, making even the most grinch-y of us all crack a smile.
Though his set only spans 10 minutes and two songs, Cory's entry for the Tiny Desk (Home) Concerts series is one of the most endearing, hands down. Pour yourself some egg nog and let Cory Henry remind you just how joyous Christmas can be when you press play.
