The distinctive stylist Leon Redbone has kept much of America's blues and jazz music alive with his foggy baritone voice and understated manner. And that's what you get on Christmas Island; mostly popular standards, with the exception of "That Old Christmas Moon," "Christmas Ball Blues," and "Kitty Cats' Christmas,"--a captivating calypso original penned by Leon and Blake Redbone. Dr. John joins in for a soulful and lively rendition of "Frosty The Snowman," while Redbone dutifully covers both "White" and "Blue" Christmas, "Let It Snow," and "Winter Wonderland." But a highlight you won't want to miss is his version of "Toyland," sung with what can best be described as Redbone passion, embracing dashes of longing, nostalgia, and pleasure as deep as the voice that breathes life into a song about every kid's Christmas fantasy.--Martin Keller
