Christmas In July

Vocalist Elisabeth Lohninger, in collaboration with guitarist Axel Fischbacher and pianist Walter Fischbacher, has chosen twelve songs from disparate corners of the world in nine different languages to create an international cornucopia of Christmas music. At times joyful, at times pensive but always hopeful, the set is firmly rooted in the jazz idiom. Christmas is a significant holiday in numerous parts of the world. In countries as far-flung as Japan and Brazil people celebrate Christmas with songs in their native language: folk songs, songs written for church and even pop songs, says Lohninger. I chose the songs on this CD because they resonate with me - especially around that time of year: they are a harbinger of light, hope and life.