Sweden’s The Refreshments record an album of Christmas inspired tunes, just in time for the holiday season!
Introduced to me by a friend, I have been a fan of The Refreshments for the last five years. Their trademark mix of traditional rhythm and blues, Rock ‘n’ Roll, and addictive Boogie Rock always puts a smile on my face. After what must have been a tough year for this popular live act, the band has recorded and released an album of Christmas tunes on digital platforms; Is it worth a purchase?
It’s fair to say albums of this type are plenty, but this one is special. Fans of the band will enjoy the familiar blend available here, and the pleasant mix of new compositions and unique covers. The album’s title track, Christmas Cheer, is a festive boogie song played in the tradition of The Refreshments. The playing across the whole album is as tight as ever, with a delightful mixture of light and shade.
Aside from the expected boogie, the band showcases their lighter side with tracks such as Christmas Roses, Dear Santa, and On A Cold Christmas Night; Smoothly delivered with professionalism. Across the album, the instrumentation is superb, with each player having their own moment to shine. One such track is X-Mas Boogie, where Johan Blohm’s exceptional piano takes centre stage.
Hearing them take on Wizzard’s I Wish It Could Be Christmas Every Day should not work, but they bring just enough individuality to make the popular tune sing once again. I can say the same about Merry Christmas Baby, performed in a beautiful combination of R&B and Blues energy.
Conclusion
This album may not be re-inventing the wheel, but they never intended it to. Christmas music should be comfortable and familiar in its form, and this does the trick. Using their trademark sound, The Refreshments has created a selection of festive numbers that fit the season and will most likely please many of their ardent fans.
Tracklisting:
- Rock’nroll X-Mas Ball
- Christmas Cheer
- I Wish It Could Be Christmas Everyday
- Marshmallow World
- Rock’n’roll Santa
- Dear Santa
- Christmas rendezvous
- The Holiday Blues
- Twinkle
- Christmas Roses
- Just Me and You
- X-mas Boogie
- Merry Christmas Baby
- On a Cold Christmas Night
Christmas Cheer by The Refreshments is available from Spotify, and digital retailers.
Christmas Cheer
