Thursday, October 27, 2011

CD Review: Cas Haley's 'Gifts To Give'

Cas Haley
Gifts To Give
Easy Star Records

Probably best-known for his America's Got Talent performances, Cas Haley has lit up the stage across the country with his own brew of Texan-blues-reggae music over the past few years. On this release, Cas starts out with an original Christmas tune, "Gifts To Give," which sets the bar high for the remainder of the album. Cas' unique vocal tricks and vocal swagger is welcoming and never obtuse or harsh. Also, Cas adds his own trumpet embellishments with his voice. In addition, a variety of scat lyrics and finger-snapping sets the acoustic and family-friendly tone of his music. Iconic Christmas classics, such as "Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas," Rudolph, The Red-Nosed Reindeer," and "The Christmas Song" are made personal by Cas' inherent singing abilities and warm guitar strumming. The music is charming, sweet, and carefree without straying too far from the original compositions. Give the gift of joy this season with Cas Haley at your side. ~ Matthew Forss 

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