Christmas is the Time

R&B / Soul · 1993 · 15 tracks

Christmas is the Time

Lou Rawls' smooth, soulful baritone brings warmth to holiday classics. Lush 90s production and orchestral arrangements make this a sophisticated Christmas listen.

1993 · Manhattan Records

Lou Rawls' "Christmas is the Time" wraps the listener in a blanket of sophisticated holiday cheer, delivered with his signature velvety baritone. This album is a masterclass in smooth R&B and vocal jazz, reinterpreting beloved Christmas standards with an undeniable soulful flair. It's an album that feels both timeless and distinctly of its era, blending classic crooning with polished 90s production.

Tracklist · 15 Tracks

01

Christmas Is the Time

2:42

02

God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen

2:58

03

Silver Bells

2:35

04

The First Noel

2:40

05

Sleigh ride

2:17

06

I'll Be Home for Christmas

2:44

07

O Holy Night

3:54

08

Joy to the World

2:50

09

Winter Wonderland

2:37

10

O Come All Ye Faithful

2:41

11

Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas

2:28

12

The Christmas Song

3:31

13

Silent Night

2:21

14

We Wish You a Merry Christmas

2:00

15

Auld Lang Syne

1:33

Moments Worth Listening For

The rich, sustained vocal flourish on "The Christmas Song" at the two-minute mark, showcasing Rawls' incredible control.

The brass section's vibrant, swinging entrance on "Jingle Bells," elevating it beyond a simple carol.

The tender, almost whispered delivery during the bridge of "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas," creating an intimate moment.

The playful call-and-response between Rawls' lead vocal and the backing choir on "Santa Claus Is Comin' to Town."

Where This Album Departs

How does Christmas is the Time sound next to the rest of Lou Rawls's catalogue?

Winter+2.1σ

Winter saturates this record far more than the artist's norm.

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