Childhood memories are a wonderful thing, and for most of us, our childhoods included Charlie Brown, in some form or another.  A Charlie Brown Christmas is a cartoon that most of have seen as children and many of us continue to watch with our own children.  And the music has stayed with us forever.  This year marks the 40th anniversary of A Charlie Brown Christmas and the music of Vince Guaraldi.  In recognition and remembrance, David Benoit has produced a star-studded, Smooth Jazz remake of this timeless classic entitled 40 Years: A Charlie Brown Christmas. 

This CD includes 12 tracks reworked by David Benoit with assistance from some of the top artists in today’s music.  It starts out with “Christmas is Coming,” performed by David.  This is a well-known theme and his arrangement brings Vince Guaraldi back to life.  There are several vocals on the CD, beginning with “Just Like Me,” written by David Benoit and featuring Vanessa Williams.  Vanessa nails this song about the sad, little tree picked out by Charlie Brown.  It’s a very sweet song.  Toni Braxton sings the classic “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year” and makes it sound brand new.  “Christmastime Is Here” features Brian McKnight.  His voice is so smooth and his arrangement is alluring.  Chaka Khan offers up the final vocal, “The Christmas Song,” originally done by Mel Torme. 

This time, the lead on the kickin’ tune, “Linus and Lucy,” is provided by saxman, Dave Koz.  David Benoit works right along with him on this favorite, but the soprano sax gives a whole new flavor.  And who can resist hearing Rick Braun on “My Little Drum?”  Norman Brown adds his guitar flair to the peaceful track, “Skating.”  His guitar work paints the perfect picture of the kids skating on the frozen pond.  Gerald Albright adds some very jazzy sax work on “O Tannenbaum.”  “Red Baron,” the jazz tribute to that flying ace is given its groove by the Rippingtons’ Russ Freeman and Eric Marienthal.  Eric continues the sax work by accompanying Dave Benoit on the classic, “Christmas Time Is Here.”

Timeless classic?  You bet.  Jazzy?  Absolutely, but this time with the smooth sounds of David Benoit and his group of friends.  This new version is sure to add a little more groove to your holiday season.

- Bonnie Schendell