A big band, jazz-themed Christmas album from blues rockers Kingswood; sure, why not 2020!?
We're not joking either, with the 'Creepin', 'Ohio' rockstars replacing denim and boots for black-tie formalwear and a collection of songs you'd expect to hear at a Carols By Candlelight shindig – and it's a beautiful thing.With the extra time they've had this year, Kingswood have already released a couple of studio albums: 'Juveniles' and its companion recording 'Reveries'.
They've also harboured, for some time, the idea to create their own Christmas record paying tribute to the likes of Frank Sinatra, Bing Crosby, Ella Fitzgerald and Nat King Cole.
The weirdness of 2020 has been accomodating, with Kingswood recording 12 festive classics including 'O Holy Night', 'I'll Be Home For Christmas' and 'Silent Night' that are featured on 'A Kingswood Christmas'.
Alex Laska and Fergus Linacre trade lead vocal duties throughout, beautifully complementing one another.
"With a deep love of the many and varied Jazz-eras and the show-tune stylings of big bands," Kingswood says, "that shaped American and furthermore, western global musical trends for some decades, our fascinations with the classic, inspired interpretations on Christmas standards have long been celebrated throughout the years of Kingswood.”
Profits from 'A Kingswood Christmas' will be donated to Beyond Blue for their Coronavirus Mental Wellbeing Support Service.
"Mental health is an issue that we have always been passionate about, and we have had the honour to work with many great organisations throughout our career," Kingswood says.
"Many Australians are approaching an unprecedented period of difficulty, with the ongoing hardships the pandemic has caused, running into Christmas.
"The experts at Beyond Blue recognise that sometimes holidays can also bring stress, anxiety and depression, particularly among those dealing with loneliness, relationship difficulties or financial worries.
"Beyond Blue provides vital support for all Australians and together, we want to remind everyone that if you're in strife and you need support for your mental health, reach out and ask."
A KINGSWOOD CHRISTMAS
1. White Christmas2. It's Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas
3. Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!
4. O Holy Night
5. Santa Claus Is Comin' To Town
6. The Christmas Song
7. Winter Wonderland
8. Sleigh Ride
9. I'll Be Home For Christmas
10. Mistletoe and Holly
11. Silent Night
12. Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas
