Search - Herb Alpert :: Xmas Album

Now what could be more festive than Christmas songs, horns, and a Latin-infused rhythm section? Not much, which is why Herb Alpert and the Tijuana Brass's Christmas Album is perfect for that kitschy cocktail party or for trimming the tree. As background music, this collection is perfect. Paying too close attention to it, however, is not advised. For instance, the vocals on "Christmas Song" would have sounded so much better had they been replaced by the timbre of Herb's trumpet. But that mistake aside, the staccato stylings of the Brass's arrangement adds a south-of-the-border flair to "Winter Wonderland" and turns "Jingle Bells" into a hyper-salsa. "Las Mañanitas" and "Jesu, Joy of Man's Desirings" glow with a warm sentimental touch. As always, the interplay of the horns via melody lines and harmonies is first rate. --Steve Gdula