(November 26, 2019) For the past several years, Marion Meadows has been sharing quality time with guitarist Norman Brown and vocalist Bobby Caldwell on their annual Christmas fest tour. Experiencing this jazz ‘family’ reunion up close in Seattle last year, I sensed a fairly loose holiday atmosphere dominated by a joyous camaraderie among the musicians. However, as a veteran saxophonist who has logged over two decades and eleven CD’s to his solo credit, it is evident that time finally caught up for Meadows to throw down his own holiday celebration.
Alongside producer Rahni Song (back from Meadows’ previous release, Soul City), Meadows presents Christmas With You (Sunsight Records), a steady diet of familiar and soon to be familiar that includes Brown and bandmate Will Brock.
(November 26, 2019) For the past several years, Marion Meadows has been sharing quality time with guitarist Norman Brown and vocalist Bobby Caldwell on their annual Christmas fest tour. Experiencing this jazz ‘family’ reunion up close in Seattle last year, I sensed a fairly loose holiday atmosphere dominated by a joyous camaraderie among the musicians. However, as a veteran saxophonist who has logged over two decades and eleven CD’s to his solo credit, it is evident that time finally caught up for Meadows to throw down his own holiday celebration.
Alongside producer Rahni Song (back from Meadows’ previous release, Soul City), Meadows presents Christmas With You (Sunsight Records), a steady diet of familiar and soon to be familiar that includes Brown and bandmate Will Brock.
For our latest First Listen, we focus on “Christmas on the Radio,” which introduces fresh vocal talents Corey Jarell and Anetra Rene. The winning arrangements place Jarell’s and Rene’s subtle yet soulful adlibs alongside Meadows’ steady, floating soprano sax. And the dreamy keys and percussion enhance a pleasing cushion that should entice urban contemporary radio to elevate “Christmas on the Radio” onto the airwaves. A hearty thanks to Meadows and his supporting vocal cast for providing this tasty greeting to the 2019 holiday season.
By Peggy Oliver
Marion Meadows - "Christmas On The Radio"