Merry & Bright

From Latin to lounge, groove to gospel, Merry & Bright is a fresh soundtrack for the holidays. Ranging from an intimate duo version of Christmas Time is Here, to a high-energy, big-band swing arrangement of I Saw Three Ships, as well as a Latin-tinged arrangement of Veni, Veni Emmanuel, this recording of highly original takes on Christmas classics is designed to appeal to the whole family. The CD features acclaimed vocalists Tonia Hughes and Bruce Henry on several numbers, including a soulful and sassy new version of Baby, It's Cold Outside. Lazarus' rhythm section, Tommy Barbarella (keyboards), Jeff Bailey (bass), and David Schmalenberger (drums/percussion), provide the tight, seasoned and inventive core upon which the all-brass big band is layered. The nine-piece Lazarus Brass brings energy and excitement to a number of tunes, including I Saw Three Ships and a New Orleans Second Line take on Frosty the Snowman.