As the holiday season approaches, there’s no better way to set the festive mood than with the timeless sounds of Stax Christmas. This album, a soulful collection of holiday classics, beautifully captures the spirit of Christmas while infusing it with the unmistakable Stax Records touch. From the moment you drop the needle, Stax Christmas envelops you in a warm and inviting sonic embrace. The album’s 12 tracks are a seamless blend of classic Christmas tunes and original compositions, all delivered by a roster of soul and R&B legends. This new collection of soulful holiday tunes is being released by Stax Records and Craft Recordings. Whether you’re a long-time fan of the Stax sound or just looking to spice up your holiday music repertoire, this album does not disappoint.
The album opens with a new alternative mix of “Merry Christmas, Baby” performed by Otis Redding, a classic that sets the tone for the entire collection. Redding’s gravelly yet velvety voice brings a genuine and heartfelt touch to the track, making it an instant holiday favorite. Isaac Hayes, another Stax icon, contributes a magnificent and sweeping version of “The Mistletoe and Me.” With Hayes’ unmistakable deep and velvety voice, this track adds a sensual and romantic dimension to the album, making it a perfect choice for cozying up by the fireplace with your loved one during the holiday season. This collection also includes a previously unreleased version of “Blue Christmas” performed by Carla Thomas. The Christmas classic, made famous by Elvis, is given new soulful charm when sung by Carla Thomas. The instrumental version of “Winter Wonderland (Take 2)“ by Booker T. & The MGs captures the joy and festive spirit of the holiday season while infusing it with a soulful and rhythmic quality. The warm tones of the Hammond organ and the skillful guitar work create a lively and danceable atmosphere. The album also includes lesser-known gems like “Who Took The Merry Out Of Christmas?” by Staple Singers, which delivers a powerful message alongside a catchy, soulful melody. Their harmonies are mesmerizing and serve as a reminder that Christmas music can be both enjoyable and thought-provoking. The track list is well-balanced, blending joyful, upbeat tracks with more contemplative, heartfelt tunes. Six Bit’s “Season’s Greetings” and Albert King’s “Santa Claus Wants Some Lovin'” bring the party atmosphere, while The Emotions’ “What Do The Lonely Do At Christmas?” and Rufus Thomas’s “I’ll Be Your Santa, Baby” provide moments of tenderness and sentimentality.
Overall, Stax Christmas is a must-have addition to your holiday music collection. It seamlessly blends the soulful Stax Records sound with the magic of Christmas, offering a diverse array of emotions and styles. Whether you’re dancing around the tree, sipping cocoa by the fire, or simply enjoying the holiday spirit, this album has a song for every moment. It’s a soulful yuletide celebration that captures the essence of Christmas with the unmistakable Stax groove. This album proves that no matter the season, the Stax legacy continues to be a gift that keeps on giving.
