In May of 2022 Mark Tremonti took the Rock world back with the release of Mark Tremonti Sings Frank Sinatra. An album he recorded with surviving members of Frank Sinatra’s band, as well as various top-notch players, Tremonti’s performance amazed many far and wide. Unexpected and very engaging, it was just another feather in the cap of the very diverse musician.
Famously known as the lead guitarist and co-songwriter for the multi-platinum selling Creed, Tremonti struck it big in the years thereafter as well with Alter Bridge. Alter Bridge, another mega successful Heavy Rock band, was still not the end of his exploration. In fact, Tremonti has dazzled listeners for over a decade now with 5 stellar solo more Metal leaning records which he not only plays guitar, but sings on. Really full of surprises, well fans are aware of his vocal talents, no one could have ever expected he could also sing in the style of Sinatra. Now, in 2023, Tremonti returns with a Christmas album sung in a very traditional style.
Calling the album Christmas Classics New & Old, and releasing it on October 27ththrough Janus Music Management, there are a lot of compelling aspects to talk about in relation to this latest release. For starters, Tremonti hand picked 9 all-time classic Christmas tracks, plus offers an original he penned himself called “Christmas Morning.” With the songs selected, he then reunites with members of the orchestra that worked on Mark Tremonti Sings Frank Sinatra. This all figured out, the album was produced by Carey Deadman; a seasoned musician a part of the Chicago scene for 30 plus years. The topping on the cake is that the album artwork was actually painted by Tremonti himself… and it is rather impressive.
So, all these facts put into play, the next question is what does this album sound like? Well, if you enjoyed Mark Tremonti Sings Frank Sinatra, you will absolutely adore this new offering. Silky smooth, full of delightful instrumentation, and an overwhelmingly classic vibe, the sound is nothing less than stellar. On top of that, Tremonti sounds absolutely magical singing these very beloved Christmas songs in the fashion that he does. Crisp, clean, and very powerfully enchanting, he shines bright on each of them quite well. However, if you are wondering which will really make your ears tingle with delight, it is recommended to indulge in “The Most Wonderful Time of the Year,” “The Christmas Song,” “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” and “Santa Claus Is Comin to Town.” Furthermore, the more religious entries, such as “The First Noel” and “O Holy Night,” will leave you speechless and quite struck with their beauty.
Overall, this album is a perfect Christmas collection for anyone who just appreciates well-performed, well-produced music. Also, if you are wondering how his original Christmas tune “Christmas Morning” fairs, well let us just say it feels like a classic that was recorded decades earlier. Here is a fun idea, put Tremonti’s Christmas Classics New & Old into your CD player or on your turntable during a Christmas gathering this holiday season to let your guests try and guess who is singing… chances are they will be floored! Elegant, enjoyable, and something which will immediately inspire your Christmas spirit, Cryptic Rock gives Christmas Classics New & Old 5 out of 5 stars.
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