“Away in a Manger / Silent Night was inspired by my early childhood and young adult experiences singing and playing in church choirs,” says Sho-Time. “Since I can remember, I’ve always found great joy and delight during the Christmas holiday season, especially singing and listening to Christmas songs. Personally, I could listen to Christmas songs every day.”
A portion of the proceeds from “Away in a Manger / Silent Night” by Sho-Time featuring Sweet Lu, will go to PUF (People United Foundation), a non-profit organization transforming under-served populations and ghettos into sustainable communities of educated leaders and entrepreneurs. “Like Jesus,” says Sho-Time, “I am willing to share my gifts to make the world a better place which is primarily the reason why I teamed with one of Jazz’s finest, Sweet Lu, to share our rendition of these two wonderful songs with the world.”
Sho-Time voice has incredible range and power, and his rendition, along with Sweet Lu, of “Away in a Manger / Silent Night” is truly exquisite, from the first note to the last. The twin tracks are chillingly tender and provide quite a contrast to the dynamic and thrilling interpretation between them. It is a beautiful summation of the hope and joy that most of us yearn to find within ourselves during the holiday season.
The tracks are simply done with minimal instrumentation so that the voices can add the warm soulfulness necessary to enrapture wanting ears. Though these tracks may have that Motown rhythmic soul feel, Sho-Time has enough musical skill to let the original songs transpire through his cover versions. I love how he moves seamlessly from one style to another, between the songs. I also love the harmonies as well as the gorgeous solo voices.
Sho-Time’s arrangement passes the melody around regularly, and provides a rich variety of both choral and solo textures. There are a number of moments of pure listening bliss. I was really looking forward to listening to Sho-Time’s rendition of “Away in a Manger / Silent Night” and it does not disappoint.
You can grab the track on CDBaby.
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