For a little more East Coast holiday fare (we do Christmas right here, what with the snow and stuff), here's the guy who's been bring his holiday show to the region for almost 30 years. Gracie has done two Christmas discs before, but this time it's a swinging take on the holidays, as he puts his jazz chops to work on the holiday favourites. And with him is his grown-up daughter Samantha, taking the duet role for one, and a does a stand-out lead on "What Are You Doing New Year's Eve."
Backed by a strong group of jazz players, the familiar cuts feature strong arrangements, with a great feel from the players. There's some especially nice piano touches from Ross Billard, "I'll Be Home For Christmas" gets a fine sax solo from Martin Davidson, and Gracie plays it smooth throughout. "White Christmas" has a Samba arrangement, and "Jingle Bell Rock" swings more than rocks, but there are some sharp guitar licks thrown in as well. "Blue Christmas" gets the Elvis vocal, but it's a slow burn jazz number instead of blues.
Catch Gracie's annual Christmas shows as well; he'll be at the Merigomish, N.S. Schoolhouse Community Centre on Saturday, Dec. 14. Part of the proceeds go to The Sandwich Club, a foodbank charity. There's a free family show at Sydney’s Wentworth Park Bandshell on Sunday, Dec. 22 as well.
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