Louis Wishes You A Cool Yule
Verve/UME, 2022
10/10
Listen to Louis Wishes You A Cool Yule
A first ever collection of holiday music from the legendary Louis Armstrong, his unmistakable trumpet and even more distinct, gravelly singing is again appreciated here, and there’s even a previously unreleased track present.
“Cool Yule” starts the listen with Armstrong’s world famous growl, as frisky drums, bouncy bass and his inimitable trumpet guide the playful climate, and “Winter Wonderland” follows with soft and emotive song craft that will have you peeking out the window for the possibility of snow, anytime of the year.
In the middle, Benny Carter And His Orchestra join ‘Satchmo’ for the timeless jazz nods of the brass fueled “Christmas In New Orleans”, while Gordon Jenkins And His Orchestra are on hand for the stirring and possibly best interpretation ever of “White Christmas”.
Further yet, “Baby It’s Cold Outside” spotlights Velma Middleton’s powerful pipes alongside Armstrongs gruffness in the charming duet, and, of course, “What A Wonderful World” is in attendance, and it’s still quite likely the best song ever recorded.
The project is available on colored vinyl, picture disc, CD and digitally, and the reading of the Samuel Clement Moore poem “A Visit From St. Nicholas”, which is set to piano from Sullivan Fortner, and is thought to be Armstrong’s last recording, is alone worth the price of admission.
Travels well with: Nina Simone- Little Blue Girl; Grant Green- Funk In France: From Paris To Antibes (1969-1970)