First Listen: Kim Burrell gives a holiday gift with "Little Drummer Boy"
(December 4, 2018) If one desires a fresh alternative to the sometimes humdrum interpretations of the holiday songbook, Kim Burrell is ready to confidently take care of business. When I first caught wind of her new single, "Little Drummer Boy," via a performance on A Gospel Christmas: LIVE from Jazz at Lincoln Center, I was already prepared for Burrell to remix, re-flip or whatever else that her genius musical mind can stir up.
First Listen: Kim Burrell gives a holiday gift with "Little Drummer Boy"
(December 4, 2018) If one desires a fresh alternative to the sometimes humdrum interpretations of the holiday songbook, Kim Burrell is ready to confidently take care of business. When I first caught wind of her new single, "Little Drummer Boy," via a performance on A Gospel Christmas: LIVE from Jazz at Lincoln Center, I was already prepared for Burrell to remix, re-flip or whatever else that her genius musical mind can stir up.
Since she started gracing the gospel industry over two decades ago, Burrell effortlessly manages to pay respect with standards in various genres, while sprinkling a healthy portion of jazz and gospel intuition that delivers a fresh perspective. A warm guitar solo opens the festivities for our latest First Listen, "Little Drummer Boy" (eOne Music/IndieBlu) before Burrell’s brilliantly tuned instrument steals the track. From the vocal sweeps and scats to the impassioned moments of adoration joy of the Lord, "Listen to me play for my King…I use my gift for You," there is no filler, bridge or hook really needed on this six-and-a-half minute extravaganza. And the seamless transitions from jazz, gospel and blues demonstrate Burrell and her indescribable musicality in everything she orchestrates.
So let the holidays roll merrily along as Burrell masterfully celebrates the tale of "Little Drummer Boy."
By Peggy Oliver
Kim Burrell - "Little Drummer Boy"