AMG Review of Merry Magic

Scott Yanow
All Music Guide

The Merry Magic Christmas CD by pianist Eric Reed covers many moods. Some of the music is reverent ("Lo, How a Rose E'er Blooming" and "Oh Come All Ye Faithful"), much of it is swinging with Steve Nelson's vibes making the group sound a bit like the Modern Jazz Quartet, and some of it is surprising, including an up-tempo version of "The Little Drummer Boy" and a vocal by Reed on a medium-slow version of "Santa Claus Is Coming to Town." Erin Bode (who is very good on "What Are You Doing New Year's Eve") and Paula West have two vocals apiece. Throughout the set, Eric Reed shows off his versatility in unaccompanied solos ("Christmas Blues" is particularly enjoyable), the trio, a quartet, and backing the singers. A fine effort.