The celebration of Christmas has a timeless and unwavering connection to music. The rich history linking them goes back many centuries and is ever evolving: new songs are continually being added to the canon. The beloved music of this winter festival is deeply linked to our social and family traditions, whilst also reflecting the changing cultural tapestry of our times. Speaking personally, becoming a father has brought the magic of the season to the fore, and is one of the reasons I wished to make this album. 

As a jazz musician, my choice of Christmas repertoire, unsurprisingly, tends towards the American Songbook-style tunes that have proven to be perfect vehicles for improvisation for generations. In fact, many of these festive songs were written in the 1930s and ‘40s, the same era as the classic jazz standards themselves, and by some of the same composers. I have no doubt that melodies as beautiful as “The Christmas Song” or “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” would be enjoyed year round were Christmas not in the title. To this selection I have added two perennial carols that are personal favourites of mine, and one original composition, a dedication to friendship.

If Christmas is the principal narrative of this record, then the subtext would be my approach to each song. I set myself the exciting challenge of presenting these well-known tunes through the eyes of my musical idols. For example, how might Bill Evans approach “I’ll Be Home for Christmas”? What would Ahmad Jamal do with “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer”? Others include Herbie Hancock, Phineas Newborn, Barry Harris, Cedar Walton and Thelonious Monk. 

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The extent to which this was successful remains for the listener to decide. The influence of the masters of the jazz piano tradition upon my own playing is overt. But, the shades of their music that appear here come from a place of honesty, love and deep study, and I cannot help but be a product of all the music that I have absorbed over the years. 

There are many people to thank for helping me to realise this album. Firstly, the wonderful musicians with whom I’m fortunate to work, Josh and Dario. Their contribution to this music goes well beyond the record date. Special thanks also to Simon Hendry, Sue Edwards, George Woodger, Sam Braysher and everyone else involved along the way. 

Most importantly, of course, thank you to my loving wife, Brigid, without whose support and encouragement this record would have remained merely an idea. Finally, I would like to dedicate this album to our three young children, Arthur, Oscar and Mairi. May their days be merry and bright.

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Gabriel

Release date: 4th December 2020

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Gabriel Latchin - piano 
Dario Di Lecce - bass 
Josh Morrison - drums 

Recorded in London at Livingston Studios on the 4th August 2020.

1. Winter Wonderland 04:35

2. Jingle Bells 05:23

3. Santa Claus Is Comin' to Town 04:10

4. I'll Be Home for Christmas 03:35

5. A Toast to Friends 05:09

6. The Christmas Song 05:31

7. White Christmas 4:15

8. God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen 04:40

9. Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas 05:34

10. Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer 04:23

11. Silent Night 04:23