Big Harp George – Big Harp George Does Christmas
Blue Mountain Records
11 tracks
In the midst of the holiday music avalanche, where jingling bells and familiar carols dominate the airwaves, there emerges a fresh and harmonically charged contender for your Christmas playlist – Big Harp George's latest creation, aptly titled 'Big Harp George Does Christmas.'
This Yuletide offering from Blue Mountain Records boasts eleven tracks that infuse the season with a unique blend of blues, jump, and Latin vibes, all masterfully orchestrated by the chromatic harmonica virtuoso himself. The album kicks off with the playful "Bad Santa," a jump blues escapade warning of the perils of a less-than-jolly St. Nick. George's nimble harp work, combined with the skillful contributions of Chris Burns on keys and Kid Andersen on guitar, sets an infectious tone for the album.
The Latin-infused "Carioca Christmas" follows suit, transporting listeners to a festive celebration of rhythm and melody. The title track, "Reindeer On Strike," injects humor into the North Pole's labor disputes, delivering a toe-tapping narrative complete with scab elves and disgruntled reindeer.
A satirical twist takes center stage in "War On Christmas!" as George crafts a jump blues anthem inspired by Fox News, where the red bloods take to the streets on Christmas Eve armed with AR-15s. The biting commentary is both humorous and thought-provoking, a testament to Big Harp George's ability to blend social commentary with musical prowess.
"Snow Shuffle" provides a West Coast Blues instrumental interlude, showcasing George's chromatic prowess alongside Aaron Lington's baritone sax. The album continues its diverse journey with the Caribbean-infused "Coquito Girl" and the swinging "Where I'll Be for Christmas?" – a track with roots in George's 2018 collaboration with Little Charlie Baty.
"Fireside Waltz" invites listeners to dance along with a three-step instrumental that marries Strauss with Southern California flair, while "Thee Three Rings" pays homage to blues royalty – Freddie, Albert, and B.B. – through George's harmonica prowess and the scintillating guitar sounds of each king.
"That Grinch In Me" takes a contrarian stance toward the holiday symbols, all while delivering an irresistibly fun melody led by sax and guitar. The album reaches its crescendo with "It's New Years Eve," featuring a countdown and the soulful vocals of Tia Carroll, escorted by harp and piano, guiding listeners into the New Year.
Recorded at the renowned Greaseland Studios, 'Big Harp George Does Christmas' is a festive feast of original cuts, brought to life with impeccable performances and a contagious sense of joy. Big Harp George has successfully crafted an album that not only raises the holiday spirit but also gifts us a collection of timeless Christmas and New Year tunes. So, unwrap the harmonious gift that is 'Big Harp George Does Christmas' and let the festivities begin!
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