…..Since anyone can (and let’s face it, practically everyone has) create a Christmas album, what makes one memorable rather than just marketable is the amount of effort put into the expected favorites and upping the appeal factor on the less-familiar tracks. Koz actually succeeds with both, pouring as much warmth and richness into “The First Noel” as one would expect from a marshmallow-floating mug of cocoa, then by invigorating “Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!” with a Big-Band feel featuring a fellow Sultan of The Sax, Kenny G. “Another Silent Night,” earnestly conveyed by Richard Marx, conjures up visions of teary eyes, lump-filled throats and dog-eared airline vouchers: “My work will have to wait. I can’t stand another day/of this holiday out here alone.”

With over two decades of contemporary jazz hits under his belt, Dave Koz may not need the assortment of famous Friends that abound on The 25th….., but their presence adds subtle enhancements rather than overwrought intrusions. Eric Benet’s skilled, yet snow-melting rendering of “This Christmas” works better for adult-only under-the-mistletoe moments than for general merriment (it will be ‘blazing’ alright, phew!), but everyone can enjoy….(please click here to read the full-length album review at soultracks.com)