The same great chestnuts on a  hotter fire...

From the Producer -

When planning the production of "In the Swing of Christmas," my first thought was to use the great musicians that make up Park Swing Orchestra as well as a few really special guest artists. After listening to the final product, I realized that all of these musicians truly are great and creatively unique! But, let's face it, this is New York, where many of the most talented musicians in the world choose to work.

First, there's Gemma Galdi, who has toured as violin soloist and chamber music performer with some of the best classical ensembles in the world. Her creative input and refined talent are awe-inspiring, and I'm honored to present her on this CD.

Then, there's David Heckendorn. I'd need a book just to describe his accomplishments. Besides singing (vocal on "Let It Snow"), he's also a great pianist and saxophonist, as well as a winner of several composing grants.

And when you hear Rudy Roberson (who's now appearing on Broadway) sing "Jingle-Bell Rock," it will ring in the season in a new and brighter light.

Gary Topper, sax and flute player, composer and film score writer, contributed the fresh new arrangement of "We Three Kings" and played solo on same as well as "Jingle-Bell Rock" (his sax solo just kills me every time.)

Hamilton Landrum, (vocal on "Winter Wonderland"), is borrowed from the great gospel group, "Redeemed" and is a one in a million vocal talent. What a voice!

Dave Gibson drummed with Basie, Diane Schur, Frank Foster etc.
Okay, I'm bragging, but I didn't make this up.

Then, of course, there's the legendary bass artistry of Ron McClure. He even makes "Silent Night" swing.
He's the reason that every tune on the album has rhythmic drive and swing.

He has played with Miles Davis, Wynton Kelly, Sarah Vaughn, and Neal Kirkwood.

Yes, Neal Kirkwood (featured on "It Came Upon the Midnight Clear").
His name could be mentioned in any crowd of greats.
It's just not fair that one guy (Neal) is a world class jazz pianist, composer and virtual monster at any style of music he plays.

Al Gorgoni (composer for television and movies) is another legendary hero heard here on guitar. He has recorded for Van Morrison, Paul Simon, Bob Dylan and a host of others. At least 40 top ten songs of the last couple of decades include his guitar and production artistry.

Of course, I must gush a little about John Di Martino.
He played keyboards and arranged "Silent Night," "The Christmas Song," "Hark! The Herald Angels," "Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas" and the humorous and swinging version of "Jingle Bell Rock." He has played with all the top musicians in New York, Philadelphia and who knows where else.
His musical genius and harmonic stylings give the same old Christmas chestnuts a freshness and hipness that invite us all to listen for a long time.

I must also mention Bill Mobley and Steve Fitzko (trumpets), Pete McGuinness (trombone), Bob Devos (guitar) and Dave Sandler (drums on "Vibe 2K").

These talented musicians gave invaluable input and are an honor to play with.
I'm sure they're welcome in any band, anywhere, at any time.