The same qualities that occasionally threaten to make the music of Tim Whitmer offputting- relentless cheerfulness and giddy sentimentality- have produced an instant seasonal classic. Happy Holidays is imbued with the benevolent spirit associated with Christmas.
Whitmer, a Kansas City institution, is joined by guitarist Rod Fleeman, saxophonist Mike Herrera, bassist Chase McRoy and drummer Ray DeMarchi on original compositions and holiday standards. Whitmer’s trademark glee is ideally suited to the material.
The band plays in the genial bluesy Kansas City tradition throughout the live session. Sustaining his remarkable career renaissance, Whitmer sounds better than ever as he exhibits his stride piano mastery. Even so, Fleeman steals the show.
The guitarist’s delightful original composition “It’s Christmas Time Again (At Last)” is followed by his transcendent solo reading of “The Christmas Song.” A wonderful gift for Kansas City jazz enthusiasts, Happy Holidays is a swinging bundle of yuletide joy.
(The album release show for Happy Holidays is 6:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. Wednesday, December 17, at Black Dolphin.)