Famously recognized as the voice of Starship, Mickey Thomas was arguably one of the best vocalists in Rock-n-Roll during the ‘80s era. Also the voice behind the memorable Elvis Bishop 1976 track “Fooled Around And Fell In Love,” Thomas initially joined Jefferson Starship in 1979, on his way to make an immediate impact with standout vocals on hit single “Jane.” From here he became an intricate part of Jefferson Starship through to 1984’s Nuclear Furniture before a shift in musical directions resulted in Jefferson Starship becoming Starship. A change that was immediately followed by the mega-successful 1985 album Knee Deep in the Hoopla, hits like “We Built This City” and “Sara” helped Starship attain a platinum-selling album.
Nearly forty years since that album, Mickey Thomas has continuously kept the legacy of Starship going strong. Last releasing an album as Starship in 2013 with Loveless Fascination, he has continued to tour consistently through the years but still has a passion for recording music. In fact, Thomas surprised many with the release of “It’s The Most Wonderful Time of the Year” and “Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas” just in time for Christmas in 2023. Recording simply out of a pure love for Christmas and the warm feelings it brings, many had worded if the two singles were a one-time deal, and now in 2024, Thomas has returned with a full-length Christmas album he calls A Classic Christmas.
Set for release on November 15th digitally, on CD, as well as on vinyl, and just a few weeks before the Christmas season kicks into gear, it will mark Thomas’ first-ever Holiday-themed record. A long time coming for the vocalist, Thomas has a soft spot in his heart for the season which brings back fond memories of growing up, spending time with family, and joyful times. Something many of us who find magic surrounding the holiday season can relate to, Thomas dipped his toes in the water with the two 2023 singles discussed. With this, he gauged the listener’s interest, and thankfully receiving a positive response, he decided to go for the gusto and record six more tracks to make A Classic Christmas.
With all this in mind, Thomas has always had a voice that catches your attention, and he also does a sensational job performing renditions of songs everyone knows and loves. If you need an example, check out his 2011 Marauder album where he covers everything from Muse to Oasis, The Beatles, and more. Very passionate about his singing, Thomas also has a very traditional side to his makeup, which loves the Holiday classics sung by Tony Bennett, Jack Jones, Andy Williams, and Nat King Cole. Channeling these influences he croons his way through prime selections for this new album.
To start with, you have the upbeat “It’s The Most Wonderful Time of the Year” starting you out, but also a lovely takes on “I’ll Be Home For Christmas” and “Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas,” but also a lively version of “Silver Bells,” and impassioned performance of “White Christmas.” Furthermore, Thomas paints pictures with his singing on “Old Fashion Christmas,” while he jazzes it up for “My Favorite Things,” a track his lovely Rachel personally requested he put on the album.
Overall, Mickey Thomas shows that recording A Classic Christmas was food to his soul. It is pure, genuine, and a smooth set of Christmas songs no one can deny. That is why Cryptic Rock recommends it for this and every holiday season moving forward, giving the album 5 out of 5 stars.
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