Christmas With Chris Ruggiero
Self-Released, 2022
8/10
Listen to Christmas With Chris Ruggiero
A vocalist who has made many appearance on PBS and is no stranger to touring, Chris Ruggiero interprets some Christmas classics with jazz, pop and classical ideas that welcomes an all star cast of musicians for the occasion.
“This Christmas” opens the listen with twinkling piano from Christian Tamburr, as Ruggiero’s expressive and soaring voice guides the stirring intimacy that later on welcomes Peter Francis’ bright trumpet, and “Sleigh Ride” follows with an upbeat charm that enlists Francisco Dimas on trumpet, John Kricker on trombone and, of course, Ruggiero’s soulful pipes.
Further on, “Grown-Up Christmas List” showcases Darlene Love’s sublime voice to the absorbing duet, while “It’s The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year” benefits much from Mike Harvey’s agile drumming and Rick Krive’s proficient keys in the booming album highlight.
Approaching the end, “Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas” places Wayne Bergeron on trumpet, as Ruggiero hits some impressively high notes, and “Silent Night” exits the listen with a dreamy, powerful rendition of the classic that is sublime and moving.
The songs here are arranged by Charles Calello and Christian Tamburr, and Ruggiero’s very diverse voice brings much creativity to the listen that you can enjoy all year round.
Travels well with: Mathieu Soucy- Recollecting; Russ Hewitt- Chasing Horizons