A Comprehensive Guide to Stan Kenton Christmas Album

The holiday season brings with it a wealth of joy and cheer, and listening to the uplifting melodies from Stan Kenton's Christmas album is one of the best ways to feel the spirit of the season. Stan Kenton was an American jazz pianist and composer who had a long-lasting and influential career that spanned many decades. His Christmas album features classic jazz renditions of traditional holiday carols, as well as original compositions that are sure to get you in the festive mood. In this article, we'll take a closer look at Stan Kenton's Christmas album and all that it has to offer.

Since its release in 1966, Stan Kenton's Christmas album has become a festive favorite for jazz fans all around the world. It features a collection of classic holiday carols such as "White Christmas," "O Come All Ye Faithful" "Silent Night" and more, as well as original compositions by Kenton himself. All the tracks on the album were arranged and recorded by Kenton and his band, and feature bright and vibrant instrumentation that is sure to warm your heart and put you in the holiday spirit.

The Tracks on Stan Kenton Christmas Album

Stan Kenton's Christmas album features a total of nine tracks, each of which is sure to fill your heart with joy and cheer. The album kicks off with a lively instrumental rendition of “White Christmas,” which is followed by a melodic and uplifting version of “O Come All Ye Faithful.” Other tracks on the album include “Silent Night,” “Jingle Bells,” “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing,” “God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen” and more.

Kenton also included two of his own original compositions on the album. The first is a mellow jazz ballad titled “Christmas Dreaming” and the second is an upbeat and swinging track called “What Child Is This.” Both of these tracks showcase Kenton’s remarkable compositional skill and demonstrate why he is considered one of the greatest jazz composers of all time.

Notable Highlights From Stan Kenton Christmas Album

Stan Kenton's Christmas album is full of delightful surprises and memorable moments. One of the highlights is the band’s rendition of “O Come All Ye Faithful,” which features an incredibly jubilant brass section and a swinging rhythm section. Another highlight is the original composition “Christmas Dreaming,” which is a melancholy yet beautiful ballad that is sure to bring a tear to your eye.

Other notable highlights from the album include the band’s inventive arrangement of “Jingle Bells” and Kenton’s swinging version of “What Child Is This.” The album also features a medley of carols that includes “God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen,” “The First Noel,” “It Came Upon A Midnight Clear” and more. This medley is the perfect way to end the album on an uplifting and festive note.

Conclusion

Stan Kenton's Christmas album offers up a delightful mix of jazz renditions of traditional holiday carols, as well as original compositions that are sure to get your toes tapping and your heart filled with joy. Every track on the album is expertly crafted and arranged by the great jazz composer, and it offers a truly unique and enjoyable holiday experience. If you're looking for something to get you into the festive spirit, Stan Kenton's Christmas album is a must-listen.

Stan Kenton