Have you heard? Norm Lewis recently put out another album! This time around it is a holiday album entitled The Norm Lewis Christmas Album. I was thrilled when I learned that he was releasing a new album for the holidays. First, I love his first album, This is the Life. It is an album I listen to frequently. Secondly, if you have ever seen one of Norm Lewis’ Christmas Cabarets this new album captures the spirit of his cabarets perfectly. The music of the new album is full of joy, jazzy tunes and holiday classics with a twist. If you have not bought this album yet, I highly recommend it, it will definitely be music you look forward to hearing every holiday season.
The music on The Norm Lewis Christmas Album ranges from classic holiday tunes such as “The Christmas Song” to “Santa Baby.” However, there are also songs that I have heard Lewis perform in a cabaret setting such as “The Gift of Love;” I was overjoyed to see this included. In addition, this album provides further Lewis cabaret favorites such as “What’s Going On” and “Bring Him Home.” There is music on this album for everyone, and it is one of my new favorite albums for the holiday season.
What The Norm Lewis Christmas Album does really well is capture the jolly spirit of Mr. Lewis as well as his smooth and exquisite voice. Every time I have witnessed Lewis onstage or in person he is full of warmth, kindness and joy. This album captures this aspect of his personality and infuses the listener with merriment. There are many highlights on the album, and one of my favorites is the ballad, “Thank You for Your Love.” Lewis’ rendition is beautiful and heart-warming. In addition, “Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer,” which feature Bobby Lewis, is a splendidly performed jazzy version of this holiday standard. It may be one of my favorite renditions of this particular song. The song is full of joy and merriment that will perk up your holiday spirits. Another seasonal favorite on the album is “Santa Baby,” which highlights Lewis’ liveliness. One last song I want to mention, although not a “holiday” song, but it is an important song in the times in which we currently live and that is “What’s Going On.” This song is full of fervor and is very powerful. As much as I love every song on this album I feel this particular song is intensely personal and I am glad he included it on the album.
There is so much to love about The Norm Lewis Christmas Album. I am grateful he released a new album for the holidays. This particular album will be one that is a staple in our house every holiday season. For more information about Norm Lewis, upcoming appearances and where to buy his album visit his website at www.normlewis.com.
Final Thought: The Norm Lewis Christmas Album is a superb album that will infuse the listener with merriment and joy. The album provides a great variety of music ranging from jazzy tunes to ballads to holiday classics. In addition, Norm Lewis’ voice will draw in and captivate the listener. If you have not purchased this album I highly recommend it. It is sure to be a favorite for the holidays.
Kelli Curtin is founding editor and writer for theatresensation.com. She has maintained a love of the performing arts since a very early age and she is excited to share her passion about theatre and the Arts with her readers. Kelli can be found on Twitter, Facebook and on Instagram.
Photos Courtesy of normlewis.com