…..After over a dozen studio CDs and collaborations on-stage and in the studio with the best and brightest of the music industry, Jonathan pours those enviable gifts of production, songwriting, guitar virtuosity and vocal instrumentation into traditional favorites and two self-penned performances. The presence of some very high-profile players certainly doesn’t hurt (Rick Braun, Dave Koz, Dan Lutz and his own daughter Jodie, to name a few), but his unique talents remain the most prominent: Jonathan’s South African roots are prominently at the top of “Little Drummer Boy,” riding hearty chants and a powerful percussive wave into a mid-tempo sway of a groove, while the typically droll “First Noel” glides in via eloquent acoustics and soars throughout. “Sweet Little Jesus Boy” isn’t as well-known as the others, but the sparing conveyance provided with just his emotive tenor and that trusty guitar could easily make it new holiday favorite.
Thanks to the spirit that Jonathan pours into the project and the glistening, glib tones of his voice, even the songs you might be the weariest of get new life: Butler’s instrumental version of “Sleigh Ride”…..(click here to read the full-length review at soultracks.com)
