Give Love (for Christmas)

 

    This is a terrific holiday album on so many levels. The strongest aspect is Cerisano's amazing rock/pop voice; he possesses a powerful instrument, and he knows how to use it. His creative phrasing makes every song his own, and his textured intonation definitely recalls Tony Bennett on occasion. Perhaps equally strong are the fantastic arrangements (Kinny Landrum and Cerisano share arranging credit) that make ordinary holiday chestnuts into something extra-special.

    Give Love (for Christmas) presents 14 tracks; perhaps six will be known by all, another seven are relatively modern--and lesser known--holiday offerings, and Kinny Landrum offers one original number ("Glad That I Got You (For Christmas)"). The vocals are supported by full orchestration, and the moods are widely varied--from polished pop to jazzy swing to rockin' gospel.

   The album is packed with fine flourishes. The opening number "Give Love" is a superb production piece, incorporating "Away in the Manger" as a backdrop, and touting love as "the one thing that no one ever has enough of." Although "Rudolph The Red Nosed Reindeer" can be tiresome, Cerisano's rendition sounds like a cheery Cajun swingfest. "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" is a classy, classic treasure alive with the artist's sophisticated, ultra-smooth tones. "Please Come Home For Christmas" is a bluesy treasure, and "Silent Night" absolutely rocks with gospel sensibilities. As for Landrum's original, "Glad That I Got You (For Christmas)" is a holiday natural, with a memorable tune, catchy refrain, and sentimental lyrics.

    Give Love (for Christmas) is a delightful holiday album that should give "The Voice" a name that everyone will remember: Joe Cerisano. Thanks, Joe, for a great album.

--Carol Swanson

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