KOSI (Denver, CO)
- What Child Is This?-Vanessa Williams (One of the more somber Christmas carols, jazzed up to strong effect.)
- Samba Triste-Stan Getz & Charlie Byrd (One of the smoothest uptempo saxophone and guitar numbers one could hope to hear; it's no accident that this album has stayed in print as long as it has.)
- I Like To Stay Home-R. Stevie Moore (An anthem for a devoted introvert, and strangely catchy. Moore's cover of The Association's "Along Comes Mary" is also ear-catching.)
- 'Tis Autumn-Bennie Wallace (Cool, elegant saxophone and piano accompaniment for taking in Autumn foliage.)
- Too Marvelous For Words-Joe Williams (Sung and played with a joyful swing. Nat King Cole's interpretation is also strongly recommended.)
- Sweet Illusions-Gary Keller (A warm, expansive mood piece that allows ample room for saxophone, trumpet, piano, vibes, and bass.)
- How Big, How Blue, How Beautiful-Florence + The Machine (Well-sung and well-produced, with magisterial instrumentation layered in, when appropriate; a strong 2015 release.)
- Nomad-Black Dub (The tune's feel reminds me of an Esther Phillips tune, "Home Is Where The Hatred Is." Much like "Home Is...," the tune commands attention for its lyrics and gripping presentation.)
- Sweet Seasons-Carole King (Sometimes, life goes your way. Other times, it doesn't. Overall, it's still a pretty great life. King sings appropriate lyrics for Thanksgiving in one of her most appealing hits.)
