Victoria Monét has given a festive upgrade to her 2023 debut album Jaguar II with the release of A Jaguar II Christmas: The Orchestral Arrangements. This enchanting holiday project reimagines eight tracks from the original album, mixing live-band arrangements with the jolliness of Christmas jingles. Though entirely instrumental, this album radiates both joy and serenity, making this the perfect soundtrack for the holiday season.
The album kicks off with “It’s a Celebration Every Time It Snows,” a whimsical twist to Monét’s single “Smoke” featuring Lucky Daye. The brash sound of the violin infused well with the comforting “ah ah ah” vocals from the background choir, making this song have a seasonal sparkle. Following this, the crisp sound of drums and bass on the second track, “Cadillac Christmas,” is also truly magnetic, giving off a smooth and funky 70s vibe.
The transition between “How Does It Make You Feel” and “On My Mama (Christmas Melody)” is a real treat to the ears. Being arranged and conducted by Maurice “Pirahnahead” Herd and played by his Detroit Soulchestra, those two tracks blend the classic sounds of the timeless Christmas carols “Let It Snow” and “Carol of the Bells.” The trumpets and horns are so captivating that you can’t help but sing the actual “On My Mama” song when the beat plays.
The next three tracks—“I’m The One (Jingle Bells),” “Stop (Askin Me 4Gifts),” and “Christmas in Hollywood”—bring a jazzy, cinematic flair to the album. These back-to-back earworms exude the upbeat energy and excitement of the holiday season, making them feel like they would be a great addition to a Christmas movie soundtrack.
The closing track “Merry Christmas Dan (Deluxe Medley)” incredibly weaves together multiple reinterpretations of standout songs from Monét’s Jaguar II: Deluxe album, including “Everybody Needs Someone,” “S.O.S.,” and “The Greatest.” Each reimagined version seamlessly tied in with the next, creating a magical listening experience that crowns this short 23-minute Christmas album as a masterpiece.
The elegance and soulfulness of this project spark the memory of lyrics from the original tracks, which makes it the ideal playlist when having a festive karaoke night or a relaxing snowy day indoors. Prepare to embrace the Christmas spirit when you stream this cheerful album.
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