Christmas in New Orleans

AMG Review of Christmas in New Orleans

Ken Dryden
All Music Guide

After the tragedy of Hurricane Katrina struck New Orleans and the Gulf Coast in August of 2005, many musicians sought to help with benefit concerts and recordings. This Christmas CD by the Dukes of Dixieland, with help from singer Luther Kent, the Pfister Sisters, and Moses Hogan's Gospel Choir, along with bells provided by the Salvation Army, mixes Christmas carols and spirituals in an upbeat setting. A good portion of the disc consists of instrumentals. The Dukes of Dixieland strut their stuff in a playful "O' Tannenbaum" and a stride-filled romp through "Sleigh Ride." "Come Home for Christmas" and "Second Line Santa" showcase Luther Kent's raucous vocals. The harmonies of the Pfister Sisters are a throwback to the Andrews Sisters of the 1940s; they are featured in a laid-back "Winter Wonderland" and a lush treatment of "The Christmas Song." "This Little Light of Mine" showcases the gospel choir while adding some fine muted trombone by Ben Smith and the down-home piano from Scott Obenschain. It is impossible not to get in the spirit when listening to this cheerful holiday outing, though it is a pity that no booklet was included to inform purchasers a little more about the musicians and vocalists on this release.