Opening with the brassy up-tempo update of "Jingle Bells" LaShell Griffin, the former Oprah Pop Star Challenge winner, scats and coos her way to a finger popping groove on this old standard. She moves next to the classic "Away in a Manger" and her voice really shines on this tune. With each verse that she sings, the warmth and beauty of her vocals are displayed gracefully and the jazzy groove really uplifts this traditional song. Along with her husband Lee they present an urban flavored "The First Noel" for the project. It is easy to see that talent really runs in the family. The beautiful tenor voice of her life partner is a true blessing to this track and adds a great touch to the tune. This is not the first time the two have sung together for on her debut project "Free" his voice can be heard on the song "Faith." Another standout of the project is the angelic "Oh Come All Ye Faithful" where her soft soprano vocals take the listener to a heavenly place. Other notable tunes are the moving "Oh Holy Night" and the unforgettable "Silent Night" both great songs. All in all LaShell presents a wonderful project that is sure to become a holiday favorite for many. To learn more about LaShell Griffin log on to www.lashellgriffinmusic.com
MiraclesGeorge Huff
Let's get through the 15 second sound bite about the background of George Huff. Yes he was discovered on the widely popular American Idol show. Yes he smiled, bounced and sung his way to the finals of that show which eventually led to the deserving Fantasia Barrino claiming the crown. Finally he is the "Smiling George" that Americans came to love so dearly during his stint on Idol. Now that that's done let's talk about his latest project "Miracles." Huff has managed to put out a CD that is just like his personality, full of life, happiness, and the warmth that shines through every time he smiles. Opening with the Fred Jerkins produced "Real Love" this feel good happy tune begins with the familiar strings and "Darkchild" echo that marks a Jerkins song. Huff's tenor voice soars as he sings about the love that God has for us all and how he's glad he found it. Next is "Fortunes" which Huff penned, as a matter of fact he wrote five of the songs on this project. This funky bass thumpin' jam is a great riding in your car tune. On it Huff sings of how he treasures the simple things as compared to the glitz and glamour that fortune can bring. This lesson is not always learned by stars but Huff seems to have taken it to heart. Other tunes of note are the Idol sounding ballad Miracles, the foot tapping Brighter Day and the happy song Bounce which honors his dance that he made famous on the show. Overall this is a solid project and one that should make everybody young or old feel good when they listen to it.
For more information about George Huff log on to www.georgehuffworld.com
