Kirk Whalum Christmas Show in Photos

from Vincent Ingala Jan Feb 2022

by Smooth Jazz Magazine

Selina Albright

Photos By: Bobby Roebuck

CD Reviews

By: Giget C. Johnson “15 Mins of Xmas” by Mike Williams on Sax

Holiday EP Set for release on December 10, 2021, this holiday EP is selfdescribed as a “fun Holiday Project that explores moving and emotional pieces, with a nice splash of holiday cheer”. It is just that.

Opening with “Mary Did You Know”, the EP quickly let me know that while the title uses” X” in place of “Christ” that Christ is very much a part of this EP and very much a part of Christmas. It took me straight to the King! I felt it deeply in my chest. As the mother of one son, the ultimate Boy Mom, I was brought to tears thinking of how Mary felt to know that her only child would be sacrificed, but that he would save the world. I found myself sitting in my writing nook with tears in my eyes. It just hit different to think of this through a mother’s eyes. I’ve heard the song for years with others singing the lyrics, but having the lyrics played by saxophone, I was made to feel every note of the song even more deeply. Mike Williams on Sax takes you to church, leads you to the alter, helps you to your knees and leaves you there with a pair of sweaty eyes. The collection plate should be passed around and the benediction given. This emotion evoking rendition is a true reminder that Jesus is in fact the reason for the season.

On “Jolly Old St. Nicholas / Carol of the Bells”, Mike Williams on Sax is a show off – of his talent. 64| SmoothJazz Magazine Let the music take you… Jan/Feb

CD Reviews

In the beginning of this song, he articulates the notes in a basic foundational way, making you think he’s an amateur artist then he shows all the way out! Mid-way through he takes the spotlight to exhibit his true talent. Ain’t nothing amateur about this rendition. It closes out back to the basics, like a true student of music would do. Go on Mike!!! “Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas”, the third song on this Holiday EP, is a classic rendition with the perfect twist. He makes it his own, just like Dave Koz said about artists making classic holiday songs their own by what they bring to the song. It ’s how an artist is able to make holiday album after holiday album with some of the same songs. This version is perfect for a holiday date night at a really fancy supper club with live music or a holiday party or a night at home in front of the fireplace. It makes me want to draw close to my love, enjoying an intimate conversation with a nice glass of wine. That last note takes us out!

“15 Mins of Xmas” adds perfectly to your holiday playlist. Round of applause. Standing ovation! Bravo, Mike Williams on Sax! Bravo!