Take 6

TAKE 6 - HE IS CHRISTMAS (1991)

This CD finds the somewhat miraculous a cappella sextet Take 6 emphasizing the religious side of the holiday season. One of the world's only gospel jazz groups, Take 6 uses advanced harmonies and sophisticated improvisations while always keeping "the message" in the forefront. However, this Christmas set is rather brief (just 35« minutes) and, even with a few highlights (the Yellowjackets' guest appearance on "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen" and a drum machine used to humorous effect on the bizarre "'Twas Da Nite"), the results are not all that essential. ~ Scott Yanow

Contemporary Christian group Take 6 are virtuoso singers with a flawless grasp of harmonic theory. This vocabulary enables them to create arrangements that are resplendent with original ideas, though built on an unassailable foundation. "Silent Night" is a haunting mysterious dance with the familiar melody line, a departure point for the jazz chord voicings that are essential imagery of Take 6. The group's own "Oh!, He Is Christmas" is a sophisticated soul didactic. "Away In A Manger" is rooted in a repeating bass part - the breath of the tune - while the lead is freed up to explore every vocal contour. "Amen" is a smooth gospel-go-round, joyous and bright. If you want uniquely brilliant interpretations of your Christmas favorites, this is the CD for you.

1. Silent Night

2. Oh! He Is Christmas

3. Hark! The Herald Angels Sing

4. Away In A Manger

5. Amen!

6. The Little Drummer Boy

7. 'Twas Da Nite

8. Sweet Little Jesus Boy

9. God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen

10. O Come All Ye Faithful